EXECUTIVES PARTNERING TO INVEST IN CHILDREN
CONTACT
711 Park Avenue West
Denver, CO 80205
303-319-3350
info@EPICimpact.org
EPIC’s diverse client base includes both public and private sector employers of all sizes. Our Colorado roots have allowed us to partner with a wide range of employers to develop tailored child care solutions.
Guild Builds The Beehive: On-Site Child Care Driving a People-First Workplace
Challenge
Guild knew that many of its employees with young children were facing an impossible balancing act. Traditional child care was often too expensive, too far away, or too rigid to meet the realities of modern working parents. And despite attempting to get on infant waiting lists early, often care for the youngest children in licensed care settings simply didn’t exist. This created stress, distracted focus, and limited parents’ ability to pursue ambitious career paths. For Guild, it became clear that if the organization wanted to support the whole employee and build a truly inclusive workplace, it had to address child care head-on.
Solution
In 2019, Guild made the bold decision to work with EPIC to explore on-site child care within its downtown Denver offices at Republic Plaza. Even as the pandemic added complexity, the company pressed forward, designing and launching a 12,000-square-foot facility on the third floor of its annex tower. Operated directly by Guild, with a sliding scale tuition model, The Beehive was created with intentional features to serve children from 6 weeks to 6 years old—including indoor-outdoor play space, a large multipurpose room with flexible design, and a dedicated mother’s room to support nursing parents.
Outcome
The Beehive opened in 2021, and today, the center supports about 85 children and provides employees with reliable, high-quality care just steps from their desks. Parents report reduced stress, shorter commutes, and greater ability to focus on their work while staying engaged in their children’s lives. For Guild, the investment has strengthened recruitment, boosted retention, and underscored its reputation as a company that leads with people-first innovation.
Partnering for Solutions: How Child Care Supports the Steamboat Workforce
Challenge
Located in a mountain resort area with limited child care and a high cost of living, Steamboat Ski Resort struggled to attract and retain talent, especially during ski season. With 400 year-round and over 2,000 peak season employees, the resort sought a partner with a proven child care model to operate efficiently.
Solution
Steamboat Ski Resort partnered with EPIC to develop a 4,200-square-foot child care center for 35 children, ages 6 weeks to 6 years. Employees received priority enrollment and a 20% tuition discount. The center was made possible by a $1 million investment from the resort and a State of Colorado grant.
Outcome
The Steamboat Child Care Center opened its doors in 2022 and has had a strong impact on employee retention and the local workforce. Ninety percent of parent employees plan to remain at Steamboat, and workers reported 13 fewer absences per year. Seventy percent said child care benefits help them stay employed.
Transforming Underutilized Space into a Vital Community Resource
Challenge
During the pandemic, Mile High United Way realized that their conference space was underutilized. Seeking to make a more meaningful impact with their facility, they envisioned repurposing the space for a beneficial employee and community benefit.
Solution
Mile High United Way partnered with EPIC to explore the best use for their available space. EPIC conducted a comprehensive feasibility assessment, provided facility and financial modeling, and managed a blinded operator RFP process to identify the ideal partner.
Outcome
In June 2024, the Sparks Center opened its doors. This new child care center now serves 60 children, primarily infants and toddlers, from both employee families and the wider community. Operated in partnership with a local provider, the Sparks Center stands as a testament to innovative space utilization and community support.