Transforming inequitable systems that keep people stuck in low-quality jobs can feel daunting. It’s complex and takes time, but not every step forward needs to be a sweeping revolution. Sometimes, even small tremors can start to shift tectonic plates. Big change in the workforce often starts with small, human-centered actions.

Often times, we think that policy is the only avenue to create change when faced with trying to knock down barriers that were built over decades or even centuries. Indeed, we do need to shift policy for lasting solutions. But at the National Fund for Workforce Solutions, we believe that listening to workers and responding to their real needs is one of the most powerful ways to spark change. That’s exactly what happened in Des Moines, Iowa.

As part of the National Fund’s Shifting the Childcare Industry initiative, our Network Partner at United Way of Central Iowa set out to understand the day-to-day realities of early childhood educators in their community. They spoke with more than 100 administrators and educators across local childcare centers. One unexpected theme kept coming up: many centers didn’t have a coffee maker.

It might sound small, but this detail mattered. A coffee maker isn’t just about caffeine — it’s about feeling seen, supported, and valued. It’s about creating a space where educators can connect, recharge, and build community. So, the Des Moines team made sure coffee makers were part of their solution to spark change in their community.

This simple act is what we call a “micro-intervention”— a small change that can shift culture and lay the groundwork for bigger transformation.

Listening First

The work began with intentional listening. Childcare center directors shared their biggest operational challenges: keeping staff and training new hires. To dig deeper on what was driving these issues, United Way surveyed educators using the National Fund’s Job Design Framework, gathering both quantitative data and open-ended reflections from in-classroom childcare educators.

The results were eye-opening. Unsurprisingly, wages were a concern. But interestingly, what mattered even more was how staff felt treated. Educators who felt respected, supported, and recognized were far more likely to say they felt like they belonged, were proud of their work, and looked forward to coming in each day.

One surprising insight stood out: long-tenured staff were less likely to feel appreciated. They loved being with the children, but wanted better communication and more consistent recognition.

Small Changes, Real Results

Armed with this insight, the Des Moines team worked with center directors to develop meaningful ways to build culture and amp up recognition. They provided notebooks for new hires to track questions and feedback. They offered goodies for all staff like snacks and water bottles to support educators through long days. Most importantly, they delivered on the number one requested item: coffee makers.

These changes weren’t expensive or complicated. But they sent a clear message: “We see you. We value you.”

The break room became more than a place to go grab a drink. It became a space where educators can catch up, exchange ideas, or simply brighten each other’s days by laughing at the ups and downs of educating young children. In “workforce systems” terms, it was a low-cost way to improve workplace culture – especially in a field where worker recognition is often lacking.

Beyond Coffee

Of course, the coffee makers were not the only outcome of the listening sessions. This local childcare coalition also began exploring bigger changes — stabilizing revenue, improving onboarding, and upgrading technology. They’re planning follow-up assessments and focus groups to see how these efforts are affecting staff retention and satisfaction.

This dual approach — combining small, worker-informed actions with broader operational needs — can be a key to lasting change. When solutions reflect both worker voices and business needs, they’re more likely to stick.

A Bigger Picture

What’s happening in Central Iowa reflects a broader truth about the childcare sector. Early childhood educators — mostly women and disproportionately women of color — are underpaid, overworked, and chronically undervalued. Yet their work is essential to families, communities and the economy.

Fixing this won’t come from coffee makers alone. States need to increase reimbursement rates to reflect the true cost of care. Job standards must rise to meet the needs of the childcare industry workforce.

Imagine what would happen if every single childcare educator in America felt seen and supported at work. Think of the ripple effect that would have in the lives of the children and families they serve.

Where Change Begins

True transformation happens when systems change at multiple levels. We need better policies. We need stronger institutions. We need to shift the everyday experiences of workers to make their jobs better. We need to change the default settings of flawed systems.

That’s why we believe in starting with what people ask for. Because when change begins with those doing the work, it’s more likely to grow.

The coffee makers are, in the end, symbolic. But they are also strategic symbol of respect. A tool for connection…and a small step toward a better system for the workers who power it and the people who rely on it.