Summary
- Ford’s BlueOval City in Tennessee is a large EV production center under development
- The center includes a new YMCA Early Learning Center for up to 175 children
- The YMCA center will provide care for children during the workday, before-school, and afterschool
- $7 million from public and private sources is supporting the construction and operation of the facility
- Ford is focused on providing quality facilities for employees’ children and families at BlueOval City while also helping to keep employees focused at work
Article
BlueOval City is Ford’s newest big EV production center under development in Tennessee, where the future of the Ford Motor Company is being built. This facility is not just a factory, but a comprehensive center designed to cater to the needs of employees. The latest addition to BlueOval City is the new YMCA Early Learning Center, which can accommodate up to 175 children, providing care for kids from 6 months to 5 years of age. The center also offers before-school and afterschool programs, including meals, for school-age children, showcasing Ford’s commitment to supporting its employees and the community.
Ford has collaborated with the YMCA to gather input from residents and key investors to develop the facility. The $7 million funding for the construction and operation of the childcare center comes from public and private sources, with $1 million dedicated to offset the cost of childcare for Ford’s Tennessee Electric Vehicle Center employees. The facility aims to address the challenges families in the area faced, especially following the pandemic, by providing access to affordable and high-quality childcare. This initiative reflects Ford’s dedication to workforce development and improving the quality of life for its employees, students at Tennessee College of Applied Technology, and the local community.
The YMCA of Memphis & the Mid-South, a partner in this project, emphasizes the importance of increasing access to healthy lifestyles, which contribute to stronger families and communities. The collaboration between Ford and its partners to create a childcare facility that meets the needs of families and community members in West Tennessee demonstrates a commitment to supporting employees beyond the workplace. By providing essential family services, Ford is not only investing in the well-being of its employees but also fostering a sense of community and support amongst its workforce.
Creating a childcare center at BlueOval City showcases Ford’s efforts to provide employees with facilities and services that go beyond traditional workplace amenities. The company’s dedication to supporting families and addressing fundamental needs like childcare underscores its commitment to employee well-being and retention. The initiative not only benefits employees and their families but also contributes to the overall development of the community by providing essential services that promote a healthy work-life balance. The focus on workforce development and community engagement sets Ford apart as a company that values its employees’ holistic well-being.
The partnership between Ford, the YMCA, and other investors underscores a collaborative effort to create a positive impact in the community by addressing childcare needs and supporting families. Through the establishment of the YMCA Early Learning Center at BlueOval City, Ford is setting an example for other companies to invest in employee wellness and community development. The facility’s focus on providing affordable and high-quality childcare reflects a commitment to creating a supportive environment for employees and their families, ultimately contributing to a more productive and engaged workforce. Overall, this initiative highlights Ford’s proactive approach to addressing the evolving needs of its workforce and fostering a sense of belonging within the community.
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