GRAND JUNCTION, Colo. (KREX) — Community Hospital will be honored on Tuesday for its dedication to early childhood education. The recognition will take place at the 2024 Executives Partnering to Invest in Children (EPIC) Annual Business Leaders Dinner in Glendale.
The hospital’s on-site early childhood education center, Adventure Academy, will be in the spotlight. Opened in September 2023, Adventure Academy provides childcare for both hospital employees and Mesa County residents.
Community Hospital will be awarded EPIC’s 2024 Early Childhood Champion Award. This award honors businesses and employers that demonstrate innovation, leadership, and a strong commitment to supporting young children and working families.
“Adventure Academy is a shining example of how employer-supported solutions can work,” said Cassie Leyva, EPIC Vice President of Development and Operations. “By offering high-quality childcare to over 100 children in Mesa County, Community Hospital has set a high standard for family-friendly practices.”
The $5 million Adventure Academy project was funded through a mix of state and federal funds, private donations, and event fundraising.
“We understand that a shortage of childcare affects healthcare workers, and we are proud to have led efforts to address this issue in Mesa County,” said Tawny Espinoza, Community Hospital Chief Development Officer. “This project represents a collaborative effort, and we are thrilled to provide a high-quality, affordable childcare facility that will benefit our community for years to come.”