Tiny Hands. Big Dreams. Strong Community.
Building a brighter future for Manson’s families through dependable, accessible childcare that supports working families and nurtures young minds.
P.O. Box 26
1104 11th Ave, Manson, IA 50563
Our Mission
Building a Foundation for Manson's Future
To serve Manson and surrounding communities by offering dependable, accessible childcare that supports working families and fosters the growth of young children.
Child-Centered Care
Fostering social, emotional, physical, and academic growth of young children in a nurturing environment.
Community Driven
Our board represents education, healthcare, small business, finance, and city operations from our community.
Local Support
The City of Manson provides a building for minimal rent to help establish this vital community resource.
Licensed & Safe
Meeting all fire marshal requirements and safety standards to create a secure environment for children.
Why We Matter
More Than a Daycare, A Community Investment
Crater Kids Community Daycare is a nonprofit organization formed to meet the growing need for accessible childcare in the Manson area. When childcare is accessible and affordable, it strengthens every part of our community.
Critical Need
Manson currently has only 8 in-home providers, with one retiring in 2027. Over 70 children need care according to our community survey.
Family Support
Parents can return to work with peace of mind
Economic Growth
Strengthening Manson's local economy
Early Education
Preparing children for school success
Community Growth
Attracting new families to Manson
Sponsorship Levels
Friends of CraterKids: $100 - $499
Tax receipt and handwritten thank you note fromCrater Kids | Recognition in annual report
Believers of CraterKids: $500 - $999
All the benefits of the Friends of CraterKids level | Exclusive updates on activities and center initiatives | Social media recognition
Advocate of Crater Kids: $1,000 - $1,499
All the benefits of the Believers of CraterKids level | Website and newsletter recognition | Donation recognition inside facility
Visionaries of Crater Kids: $1,500 +
All the benefits of the Advocates of CraterKids level | Press release and major publication recognition | Special donor recognition event prior to opening
Looking to make a lasting impression?
Common Space Sponsor: $7,500
All the benefits of the Visionaries of CraterKids level | Entryway, Playground, Commons Area, and Kitchen | Naming rights, first come first serve
Classroom Sponsor: $10,000
All the benefits of the Visionaries of CraterKids level | Naming rights, first come first serve
Only five available!
Our Progress
What We've Accomplished
Crater Kids Community Daycare was founded through the dedication and collaboration of community members who recognize the need for quality childcare in the Manson area. Our journey began by establishing a strong foundation, securing our 501(c)(3) nonprofit status with the IRS and forming a committed board of 9 community members representing diverse sectors of our region.
We are deeply grateful to the United Church of Christ for their generosity, donating the former church facility to the City of Manson for daycare use and providing an additional $10,000 to help launch our efforts. A recent community survey, with over 40 responses, confirmed a strong need for quality childcare for more than 70 children in the area.
We are proud to share that we have been awarded the Calhoun County Community Foundation Grant of $10,000 and approved for a $50,000 RLF Loan through Calhoun County Economic Development Corporation. We have also completed a pre-application for a $100,000 catalyst grant and received a grant through WCCTA/FRS of $2,176 for initial technology. With these milestones behind us, we’re now working toward our goal of opening in Fall/Winter 2026 to welcome our first families.
How You Can Help Make a Difference
Your support builds more than a daycare, it builds a stronger community for generations to come.
Become a Financial Partner
Businesses and individuals can partner with us through various sponsorship levels including one-time contributions, ongoing sponsorship opportunities, and monthly giving programs. Every contribution directly supports opening day and helps bring quality childcare to our community.
Volunteer Your Time
Help us prepare the facility and spread the word about our mission through community fundraising events, painting and setup days, and outreach efforts. Your time and energy make a real difference in bringing this project to life and serving our families.
Spread Awareness
Community voice is powerful and helps us build momentum for quality childcare in Manson. Attend community meetings to show support, display flyers and materials at your business or workplace, and connect us with local leaders who can help advance our mission.
Provide In-Kind Support
We welcome donated goods and services to help us get ready for opening day. This includes furniture and classroom materials, construction and professional assistance, as well as accounting, legal, marketing, and other professional services that support our mission.
Advocate for Childcare
One of the strongest ways you can help is by sharing our mission with others. Talk with neighbors and coworkers about the need for quality childcare, share our updates on social media, and encourage others to support this important community project.
Partner with Local Business
Businesses benefit directly from reliable childcare access for their employees. Partner with us through corporate sponsorships, employee giving programs, and matching gift opportunities to strengthen our workforce and build a more resilient community for everyone.
Our Team
The People Behind Crater Kids
Our board represents education, healthcare, small business, finance, and city operations, ensuring decisions are made with insight from every corner of our community.
Kari Krueger
Board President
Regional HIPAA Privacy Officer, UnityPoint Health
MNW School Board Member
Mary Jo Kruse
Vice President
Retired In-Home Daycare Provider
39 years of experience
Hillary Lenz
Treasurer
Owner & Operator, Fringe Salon
13 years in business
Macie Schoon
Secretary
Deputy Clerk & Economic Development Coordinator
City of Manson
Mitch Lewis
Board Member
Director of Finance, Iowa Central Community College
Experienced in supporting startup daycares
Stacy Kraft
Board Member
School Nurse & Health Science Instructor
Southeast Valley High School
Janet Olson-Egli
Board Member
30 years of teaching experience
Helped develop MNW Preschool in Barnum
Maranda Geerdes
Board Member
Registered Dental Hygienist
12 years of experience
Sarah Droste
Board Member
School Nurse and Health Occupations Instructor
MNW School District