05/22/2026
Provider Appreciation Day is an annual celebration on the Friday before Mother’s Day that recognizes the work of child care providers, teachers and other educators of young children. Established by NAFCC in 1995 as a way to thank family child care and center-based providers, Provider Appreciation Day is now celebrated throughout the United States and around the world as a “thank you” to the people who educate, support and spend a tireless amount of time with our children.
On Wednesday, May 20th Governor Stein hosted a Child Care Provider Appreciation Reception at the Executive Mansion and the Office of the Governor graciously extended invitations to all Smart Start Local Partnership Executive Directors. In addition, all EDs were invited to invite up to two child care providers from their communities to attend.
Alliance for Children was represented by our Executive Director, Trinisha Dean, and two Union County Child Care Providers - Lisa Johnson (S.T.E.P.S. Developmental Academy, Inc.) and Rhonda Rivers (LeafSpring School at Matthews).
Words of gratitude and appreciation were provided by Governor Josh Stein, Lieutenant Governor Rachal Hunt, Senator Jim Burgin, and DCDEE Director Candance Witherspoon.
The event was sealed with the Child Care Provider Appreciation Proclamation.
Thank you to the Governor's Office for shining the light on North Carolina's finest - Child Care Providers.
