From Vision to Reality: How BuildUp Oregon and Preschool for All Are Transforming Early Care and Education in Multnomah County
When Dee Hayward saw an opportunity to reopen a recently closed preschool in her community, she knew it wouldn’t be easy. But with support from BuildUp Oregon, she was able to secure funding, renovate the building, and open Every Step Preschool to local families once again. Today, she’s serving children with Preschool for All (PFA) slots opening in Fall 2025, and building a future for her business and her community .
Hayward’s story took center stage at a press conference on Monday, April 7 hosted by Preschool for All. Held at Hayward’s newly renovated facility, the press conference was an opportunity to show the positive impact of Preschool for All. Hayward spoke about how joining PFA helped her launch Every Step: “Joining the program means partnering on some shared standards, like welcoming all children and creating inclusive classrooms. But providers are supported every step of the way—with coaching, staffing funds, and tools to keep every child in care.”
BuildUp Oregon was honored to be a part of the event. Early Care and Education Program Manager Rachel Langford shared how BuildUp Oregon helps educators, like Hayward, expand access to child care across Multnomah County while also realizing their dreams.
“Conceiving of an expansion project and seeing it through is a huge undertaking for early care and education providers, whose expertise and passion are caring for and educating children,” Langford stated. “BuildUp Oregon is proud to partner with providers to navigate these hurdles and help them realize their expansion dreams. It’s this expansion work that is required to reach universal access and it’s happening in exciting ways all over Multnomah County.”
Supporting Early Care Providers
Since launching the PFA Facilities Fund in spring 2024, BuildUp Oregon has awarded $16.4 million in grants and loans to 43 early care and education programs. This funding has helped providers purchase, renovate, or expand their spaces.
In addition to funding, BuildUp Oregon offers hands-on technical assistance to help providers navigate the real challenges that come with expansion—like financing real estate, understanding licensing requirements, and navigating zoning and permitting connected to construction.
Some recent projects we supported include:
- Inclusive preschool playgrounds at five David Douglas School District sites
- New early learning centers created by culturally specific organizations, including Center for African Immigrants and Refugees (CAIRO) and Immigrant and Refugee Community Organization (IRCO)
- A kitchen renovation at Childswork Preschool to support on-site meal service
- The transition of three home-based providers to center-based care in East Portland and East County—where more seats are urgently needed
These investments are already making a difference for families across the county. One parent, Kelly Wirth, shared that access to Preschool for All has been “life-changing” for her family. “My daughter is not only learning her ABCs, but she’s building confidence, making friends, and developing a love for learning. It’s given her a strong start—and given me peace of mind knowing she’s in a safe, nurturing environment every day.”
Building The Future Together
We know that as an early educator, your time is precious, and your focus is on educating children and serving local families. That’s why BuildUp Oregon is here to walk alongside you—whether you’re dreaming of a bigger space, planning renovations, or just exploring what’s possible.
If you have a project you’re interested in or want to know more about BuildUp Oregon funding, check the Solutions page on our website. There, you’ll find information about eligibility and funding criteria, as well as an interest form to get started.
We’re here to help you create the kind of learning environment our children—and our communities—deserve.