West Virginia University at Parkersburg (WVUP) is teaming up with WVU Medicine Camden Clark Medical Center and Community Resources to bring expanded and improved child care services to the Mid-Ohio Valley.
Their joint initiative will more than double the capacity of the existing Bright Beginnings child care center, offering a lifeline to working parents and students alike.
The new center will be located at WVUP’s Innovation and Technology Center on the former Ohio Valley University campus. This expansion is designed to meet the growing demand for reliable, affordable child care for WVUP students, Camden Clark employees, and local families.
“The college has decided to do the upfront costs for this project because we know that child care is one of the issues that our students face, in addition to the community at large,” said WVUP President Torie Jackson.
Child care challenges are common for student parents trying to complete their education, as well as for hospital employees working long and often unpredictable shifts. Recognizing this need, WVUP, Camden Clark, and Community Resources joined forces to make child care more accessible and convenient.
Sean Smith, President and CEO of Camden Clark Medical Center, emphasized the importance of the partnership:
“We are thrilled to be part of this partnership and excited for the potential benefits and opportunities this can provide for our employees. This collaboration aligns with WVU Medicine’s ongoing commitment to support our staff in achieving work-life balance by offering convenient child care services for their families.”
Currently, Bright Beginnings operates out of the First Presbyterian Church on Juliana Street in Parkersburg. But with the move to the new WVUP facility, they will expand from serving 60 children to 130. A portion of the new capacity will be reserved specifically for children of Camden Clark employees.
“This project is not just about bricks and mortar — it’s about building a stronger future for working families in our region,” said Michelle Barber, executive director and CEO of Community Resources. “Access to high-quality, affordable child care is a game-changer for parents striving for economic stability.”
Bright Beginnings is a program of Community Resources and currently serves children ages 6 weeks to 4 years in Wood, Pleasants, and Ritchie counties. The new expansion is a key part of their mission to support families across the region.
WVUP is also making big changes of its own. The college plans to move its workforce development, computer science, and computer information technology programs to the former OVU campus in July, with facilities opening in August.
“This collaboration with WVU Medicine Camden Clark and Community Resources is more than a childcare solution — it’s a bold investment in the future of our workforce and our region,” said Jackson. “By expanding access to high-quality early childhood care at the Innovation and Technology Center, we are removing barriers for students, employees and community members who are working hard to build better lives.”
This project isn’t just about expanding a child care center — it’s a comprehensive step forward for economic growth, workforce stability, and family support in the Mid-Ohio Valley. With students, employees, and children all benefiting, it’s a win for the entire community.
