Many nonprofit organizations struggle to reach the people that need their services the most. In Rock County, Wisconsin, the disconnect became particularly apparent around child care. When Forward Janesville surveyed over 200 local workers, one message came through loud and clear: finding quality child care was a frustrating, confusing effort that took too much time.
Rather than wait for a solution, they decided to build their own. Teaming up with Foremost Media, Forward Janesville launched a tool that would serve the entire community: a searchable and easy-to-update online Child Care Directory.
Now, families have a clearer path to the care they need. Providers are easier to find. And maybe most importantly, the directory is helping rebuild something that’s often missing in systems like this – trust.
Community Voices, Community Solutions
Forward Janesville has always had its eye on what helps a community thrive, and when it comes to working families, access to reliable child care is at the heart of it. The survey results painted a clear picture: families needed one trusted source where they could actually find local child care without hitting roadblocks.
That’s where we stepped in.
We listened to what Forward Janesville needed, and built something that made sense. Foremost Media helps nonprofits translate mission-driven goals into custom website development solutions that expand impact and build community trust.
A Shared Solution to a Growing Need
Working side by side, we built a Child Care Directory from scratch, leveraging our custom web design services to prioritize clarity, speed, and usability. We built the platform on ASP.NET with a SQL database so it can easily grow and be updated without hassle.
Features That Support Engagement:
- Advanced Search Tools: Filter by location, age group, type of care, and more.
- Comprehensive Provider Listings: Help users explore services with full contact details and descriptions.
- Easy Comparisons: View multiple providers side by side.
- Self-Managed Updates: Nonprofits can keep listings current. No tech skills needed.
And with responsive web design built in, the directory works well across devices so busy parents and guardians can access it easily wherever they are.
A Launch That Sparked Connection
In June 2025, we celebrated the launch of the platform with a community ribbon-cutting event. Since then, more and more providers have joined, and the directory has become something families rely on across the region. This project has helped Forward Janesville establish itself as a local leader in addressing core community needs through innovation and creative thinking.
Elevating Local Partners and Strengthening Networks
Inviting child care providers to join the directory, especially those affiliated with Forward Janesville, sparked local teamwork and helped everyone get noticed. Organizations that are members receive added benefits, such as featured banners and profile enhancements, to further their reach.
Employers are also finding the value in using the platform, seeing it as a real way to support their workers and build a stronger team.
This project showed nonprofits a new way forward. It brought people together and put a spotlight on the difference they make every day, powered by smart digital tools.
See the case study
Let’s Build a Solution That Serves Your Mission
Connecting services to the people who need them most transforms communities and creates real impact. Here are some key benefits, especially relevant to nonprofits and mission-driven organizations:
Increases Access and Equity
When nonprofits clear away obstacles like confusing systems or outdated listings, they make it much simpler for people to find and use the help they need. This helps underserved populations to have a fair chance at accessing these important resources.
Strengthens Community Trust
Solving real problems with clear and accessible solutions helps organizations earn genuine trust. That trust often turns into strong community ties, keeps volunteers committed, and inspires ongoing support from donors.
Promotes Efficient Resource Use
Bridging service gaps reduces duplication of effort and directs people to the right resource the first time. That efficiency saves time and money, and improves outcomes for service users.
Expands Organizational Reach
A smooth path for people to find and connect with your services shines a spotlight on your nonprofit. This kind of clear access helps your reputation and impact grow naturally, especially regionally.
Fosters Collaboration Across Sectors
Tools like directories or referral systems naturally bring service providers, nonprofits, and local employers onto the same page. Working together this way strengthens connections and opens the door to more funding opportunities.
Generates Valuable Data and Insights
Using digital tools to track how people search for and use services helps nonprofits get to know their community better. With this insight, they can improve what they offer and make a clearer case to funders and supporters.
Improves Quality of Life
At the end of the day, the biggest benefit is impact. When people can access the help they need, like child care, food assistance, housing support, or mental health support, they’re likely more stable and better positioned to thrive.
Your vision deserves more than cookie-cutter solutions. We create tools that evolve with you and fuel the change you’re here to make.
Contact us today to start your next community-powered project.