Provider to Provider Initiative is an organization of home-based childcare providers in West Philadelphia whose goal is to strengthen the social and economic fabric of the neighborhood by developing the leadership capacity of the network of local home-based childcare providers.

Provide to Provider Initiative grew out of the long-time vision of one woman who recognized the valuable and special role played by home childcare providers. In a Worthy Wage leadership course, Verna Aggie was challenged and empowered to turn that vision into reality. Since the beginning, Verna has worked closely with Serena Spearman, who was also in the course. Together, Provider to Provider Initiative was launched in the fall of 2000.

Childcare workers are grossly undervalued in our society, but home childcare providers are valued least of all. They are often excluded from programs that provide training, education and quality support to childcare centers. Their wages and benefits tend to be even lower than those of center-based teachers. As isolated individuals, it is hard for them to see how their concerns will be heard. United together as one, providers can have a strong impact on challenging the laws and programs that bind them.

Through support group meetings, it has built up a regular core of participants who have engaged in a variety of activities, including: sharing information, sharing resources, joining in advocacy work, and enjoying pampering and social aspects of their gathering. PTP sponsors trips, training, conferences, a Childcare Provider’s Showcase and yearly Youth on the Move Retreat.rovider Initiative grew out of the long-time vision of one woman who recognized the valuable and special role played by home childcare providers. In a Worthy Wage leadership course, Verna Aggie was challenged and empowered to turn that vision into reality. Since the beginning, Verna has worked closely with Serena Spearman, who was also in the course. Together, Provider to Provider Initiative was launched in the fall of 2000.