Carol Thompson retiring from Child Care Links

Carol Thompson, executive director of Child Care Links and for over 35 years the driving force of the private, non-profit agency, will retire at year’s end.

Known as “the voice for child care” in the Tri- Valley. she has been active on many committees, including serving on the board of directors of the California Alternative Payment Program Association (CAPPA ).

Also, in conjunction with Alameda County, she was instrumental in the development and implementation of the Cal WORKS Stage 1 Program within Child Care Links that changed the face of CCL

That effort enabled Child Care Links to expand its service area significantly beyond the Tri- Valley by serving the Oakland community as well.

During her tenure, the number of children and families served. by CCL increased to 1,500 today and is recognized as an organization responsible for its advocacy of quality, safe and affordable child care.

Prior to joining Child Care Links, Thompson was employed with the Alameda County Probation Department and Alameda County Social Services.

Her work with Child Care Links included establishing client eligibility for subsidized Child Care services and on the Federal Food Program for child care providers. She went on to serve as the CCL Fremont office manager and program director in 1998.

Child Care Links is a private, non-profit agency advocating for quality child care.

Funded by a number of government and private sources, CCL provides a wide range of free and low cost programs. Free child care referrals are available to all residents of the Tri Valley area regardless of economic status utilizing a large database of state licensed child care providers.

A transition team is currently working with the CCL board of directors in searching for the organization’s new leader.