Dodge City Honors Local Child Care Providers at First-Ever Appreciation Event
In celebration of Child Care Provider Appreciation Day, over 40 licensed providers gathered for a special evening of recognition on Friday, May 9, during Dodge City's first-ever Child Care Provider Appreciation Event. Hosted by the Childcare Coalition of Dodge City (CCDC) and the Dodge City/Ford County Development Corporation, supported by generous sponsors and local businesses, the event highlighted child care providers' essential role in the community.
Each provider in attendance received a giveaway item, enjoyed a steak dinner, and heard remarks from local leaders, including Vice-Mayor Daniel Pogue, who shared: "You help build the foundation for our children's future, and in doing so, you help build the future of Dodge City."
The event also included a special Spotlight Provider Award, presented by Maria Hodge of Hilmar Cheese Company, who serves on the CCDC Board of Directors. The award was given to Genoveva Martinez, a licensed in-home provider whose dedication, compassion, and excellence have made a lasting impact on countless children and families.
Martinez was honored with several heartfelt nominations from parents, who praised her nurturing care, educational approach, and the deep trust she builds with families. "She has a gift for caring for the little ones," one parent shared.
"This event was created to show our providers how valued they truly are," said Mollea Lightner, Assistant Director of the Dodge City/Ford County Development Corporation. "They are the unsung heroes of our workforce and economy, and we are so proud to celebrate them."
Many local businesses contributed to the event, including Cargill, who donated the steaks for the dinner. Giveaways were provided by Western State Bank, Hilmar Cheese Company, Landmark National Bank, Julie Berries, Maid Up, Flex Fitness, Soulspring Spa & Wellness, Abbey Martin with Renew Salon, United Wireless Arena, City of Dodge City, Dodge City CVB, Fidelity State Bank, Hutton Construction, G & C Insurance & Tax Service, Chris Boys American Family Insurance, ITC, Childcare Aware of Kansas, Hilmar Cheese Company, Kirsten & Co., and more.
The event marked the beginning of what organizers hope will become a yearly tradition in Dodge City, recognizing the professionals who provide care, love, and opportunity to our community's youngest members.
The Community Housing Association of Dodge City (CHAD) is a 501(c)(3) organization created to address housing needs in the community by revitalizing neighborhoods through comprehensive assistance to persons of low-to-moderate income.
Media Contact:
Mollea Lightner
Assistant Director, Dodge City/Ford County Development Corporation
molleaw@dodgedev.org | 620-227-9501
