In an effort to address the growing challenges of early childhood education affordability, Kids First is collaborating with the Aspen City Council to explore ways to expand financial aid for families and provide better incentives for child care professionals. Nancy Nichols, Co-Manager of Operations at Kids First, outlined the need for an additional $8 million to fully fund five-day-a-week child care services for 340 available spots across Pitkin County. While full funding may not be immediately possible, the organization aims to find practical solutions that help more families afford quality care. In 2025 alone, Kids First granted over $550,000 in aid to 30 qualifying families, with 17 receiving coverage for more than half their child care costs. The average monthly cost in Aspen stands at $1,900—far exceeding what the federal government considers affordable.
Kids First has identified a significant gap between current child care expenses and what families can realistically afford. According to Nichols, child care in Aspen consumes approximately 23% of the average household’s monthly income, compared to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ recommendation of no more than 7%. If child care were limited to 10% of income, it would equate to about $827 per month, and just $579 if capped at 7%. Mayor Rachel Richards expressed interest in understanding how much funding would be required to bring child care costs closer to this benchmark. Financial aid eligibility is currently determined based on gross household income, ensuring support reaches those most in need.
Another key focus for Kids First is the continuation and potential expansion of a wage enhancement initiative for early childhood educators. Launched in 2022, the program provides monthly stipends—$300 for full-time and $150 for part-time educators—which was previously higher at $500 and $250, respectively. Megan Monaghan, Co-Manager of Programs at Kids First, noted that only four child care centers in the area currently participate in the program: Ajax Cubs, Aspen Mountain Tots, the Early Learning Center, and Preschool of the Arts at the Aspen Jewish Community Center. With county funding set to decrease over the next few years and expire entirely by 2027, these centers have absorbed the cost by raising tuition fees. Continuing the program at its current level would require $165,000 annually from the city, while expanding it to all 13 local facilities and restoring previous stipend amounts would cost $590,000.
Monaghan emphasized that the wage enhancement initiative has had a positive impact on staff retention, making it a crucial component of workforce stability in the early education sector. However, broader financial decisions hinge on the potential success of the Coalition of Early Childhood Education (CECE) in forming a special tax district. CECE has received approval from Pitkin, Eagle, and Garfield counties to propose a 0.25% sales tax increase, which would directly fund early childhood programs. If voters approve the measure, Kids First plans to align its funding strategy accordingly. Monaghan stressed that coordination with the new district will take time as it establishes leadership, sets priorities, and defines its operational framework.
Kids First is also conducting a comprehensive assessment to evaluate child care demand in Pitkin County, particularly regarding a proposed facility at Burlingame Ranch. Last May, the city council approved land-use entitlements for a center that could accommodate up to 94 students. Should the analysis conclude that another facility isn’t necessary, Monaghan suggested reallocating resources toward alternative initiatives such as housing support for child care workers or further enhancements to educator compensation. This strategic approach reflects Kids First’s commitment to evolving alongside community needs and working collaboratively with both local government and emerging funding entities to build a sustainable early childhood education system.
The Pennsylvania Treasury Department has issued its second round of Money Match payments, delivering over 39,000 checks totaling $9.2 million to residents who were unaware they were owed money. This initiative, backed by state legislation and designed to streamline the return of forgotten assets, automatically identifies eligible individuals and sends them direct payments without requiring any action on their part.
Unclaimed property can take many forms, from inactive bank accounts and uncollected dividends to expired insurance benefits and abandoned safety deposit items. Under current regulations, companies are required to report such dormant assets after a period of inactivity, typically three years. The Treasury then takes responsibility for locating the rightful owners and returning the funds. With more than 10% of the state’s population likely to have unclaimed assets, the program offers a valuable service by reconnecting families with lost financial resources.
This latest disbursement follows an initial successful round earlier this year and marks a step toward the department’s goal of returning $30 million by 2025. Scheduled to continue quarterly, the program is expected to expand access to rightful claimants while reducing bureaucratic hurdles. Officials emphasize that recipients should treat these checks as legitimate and encourage prompt deposit or cashing to ensure smooth processing.
Returning forgotten funds to citizens not only strengthens individual financial well-being but also reinforces trust between government and the public. By simplifying the process of reclaiming lost assets, Pennsylvania sets a precedent for transparency and efficiency. Every dollar returned is a tangible benefit to families, helping them meet daily needs and build a more secure future. As the program progresses, it serves as a reminder that proactive governance can make a real difference in people's lives.
In a vibrant display of community spirit and charitable giving, the Keene Trace Golf Club in Jessamine County hosted PGA Tour icon John Daly—famously known as the “Wild Thing”—for a special golf tournament aimed at raising funds for local causes. The event, held in the heart of Kentucky, centered around supporting organizations like Justin’s Place, which provides equine-assisted therapy to children with disabilities. Spearheaded by Travis McLaughlin of Good Boy Vodka, the initiative reflected a deep personal connection to the late Justin King, after whom the organization is named. With a focus on keeping contributions local, the tournament brought together sponsors, athletes, and community members to celebrate service, nature, and the joy of giving back.
A Star-Studded Tournament with a Heartfelt Mission
On a sun-drenched day at Keene Trace Golf Club in Central Kentucky, golf enthusiasts gathered for the inaugural John Daly Charity Golf Classic. The event, hosted by the two-time major champion himself, was more than just a sporting occasion—it was a heartfelt tribute to community values and philanthropy. Among the beneficiaries was Justin’s Place, a nonprofit offering therapeutic horseback riding programs for children facing physical and developmental challenges. The organization holds particular significance for Travis McLaughlin, whose company, Good Boy Vodka, served as the event's sponsor. Remembering his childhood friend Justin King, who was passionate about animals and helping others, McLaughlin expressed pride in channeling those ideals into a meaningful cause. Allie Barnett, executive director of Justin’s Place, emphasized how the event mirrored their mission of finding healing through nature and animal interaction. Held during the summer heat, the tournament not only raised vital funds but also reinforced the importance of community engagement and support.
Reflections on Community, Legacy, and Giving Back
As a journalist covering this event, what stood out most wasn’t just the presence of a golf legend, but the genuine sense of unity and purpose that permeated the atmosphere. This wasn't a typical celebrity charity appearance—it was a deeply personal endeavor rooted in friendship, memory, and a shared vision for a better community. McLaughlin’s words about balancing work and life while making a difference resonated strongly. Events like these remind us that charity doesn’t always have to be grand or far-reaching; sometimes, the greatest impact comes from staying local, honoring loved ones, and investing in the well-being of our own neighborhoods. In a world often driven by self-interest, seeing a community come together under the banner of compassion and remembrance is both refreshing and inspiring.