The Helpers Next Door - Getting Help with Childcare

Paid Childcare Training in Colorado Springs, Colorado

from the May 2026 Edition of Colorado Springs Kids Magazine

It takes a village, and this free training helps you build one.

Colorado Springs is home to five military installations and tens of thousands of service members and their families. For many military spouses, that means navigating life far from extended family which means managing kids, careers, and daily routines while a partner deploys or works unpredictable hours. When you need a trusted person to watch your children, the options can feel impossibly thin.

That challenge is exactly what inspired HomeFront Help, a free training program from the nonprofit Operation Child Care Project (OCC Project). The program equips community members with the skills to become trusted, confident caregivers, not as employees of the organization, but as equipped neighbors, friends, and fellow parents ready to step up when families need support.

HomeFront Help Graduates complete hands-on training in CPR, first aid, child safety, and developmental education. They also receive a background check and ongoing expert support, all completely free. Graduates even receive a stipend for completing the program, because OCC Project’s mission is supporting those who support families.

“I understand what it’s like to be a military spouse with no help and feeling trapped and overwhelmed. I want to help families and children find quality care where they feel comfortable and supported.” -a HomeFront Help Graduate and military spouse.

The program draws people from all walks of life, military spouses, retired teachers, stay-at-home parents, and medical professionals, all united by one thing: the desire to show up for families who need it. For many, the motivation is deeply personal. They remember a time when they were the ones searching for help, and someone in their community stepped in.

“I was alone with three children and had a husband who was far away. It was the kindness of my neighbors and strangers who helped me keep my head up. If I can be that blessing to another family, it would truly be a gift.” -another HomeFront Help Graduate

You do not need a background in education or child care to participate. Many Graduates say they already had the heart; HomeFront Help simply gave them the tools and confidence to put it into action.

Whether you are a seasoned caregiver or the parent who neighbors always call in a pinch, this training meets you where you are.

The next free HomeFront Help training takes place on June 6, 2026, right here in Colorado Springs. To learn more or submit your interest, visit occproject.org/homefronthelp.