(Para español)
Lawrence, KS — November 18, 2025 — The Ballard Center is celebrating a major boost toward long-planned facility upgrades with a $75,000 grant from the Kriz Family Foundation, moving the organization closer to modernizing its 100-year-old building and preparing for a new fire-suppression sprinkler system. The upgrade will allow Ballard to meet the standards needed to expand the number of children it can serve.The grant follows months of relationship-building, tours of the center, and a visit to the annual Butterfly Bash. A local plumber has also committed to replacing the Center’s aging plumbing over winter break and without interrupting childcare services.
“This investment brings us one step closer to a future where Ballard can serve even more families,” said CEO Kyle Roggenkamp. “Our community continues to believe in the work happening inside these walls.”
Ballard’s 2026 Plans: A New Model for Kansas
The announcement comes as Ballard prepares to launch several major initiatives in 2026:
- 7% Tuition Model: A groundbreaking affordability plan ensuring no family pays more than 7% of household income for childcare—far below the nearly 20% Kansas families often pay.
- Living-Wage Workforce + Health Benefit Expansion: Building on 2025’s achievement of providing living wages to all educators without raising tuition, Ballard will expand health benefits in 2026.
- Expanded Family Services: With its new pantry addition now open, Ballard is doubling food-and-basic-needs capacity, launching a new produce pantry, and making record investments in rent, utility, and emergency assistance.
- Record Scholarship Support: Increased funding will ensure more children can access high-quality early education regardless of family income.
“For sixty years, Ballard has been a light in the dark for Lawrence families,” Roggenkamp said. “In 2026, we’re ready to serve even more boldly. When this community comes together, anything is possible.”
About the Ballard Center
Founded in 1965, the Ballard Center provides affordable early childhood education and comprehensive family stabilization services for Douglas County families.
Last modified: November 19, 2025
The Ballard Center partners with individuals and families to achieve stability through early childhood education and needs-based services by cultivating a strong network of organizations, businesses, and individuals dedicated to serving our community.
