Finding childcare on campus may be challenging for parents, but it’s a need Iowa State is working to meet.

University Community Childcare meets this need for Lu Kupfer, who says her 1-year-old daughter Mattie receives excellent care.

“UCC has a wonderful system with nurturing caregivers,” said Kupfer, whose husband, Joseph, is a professor of philosophy.

The day care offers six different activities, ranging from art and story time to taking walks outside. The center provides care for children ranging in age from 6 weeks to 12 years.

“They have a variety of caregivers you can count on,” Kupfer said.

She also appreciates the day care’s proximity to campus. UCC, 891 Pammel Court, is just north of the horse barns.

The day care center employs about 18 permanent staff members during the school year and 15 to 16 work-study students who act as assistant teachers, said Penny Pepper, UCC director.

“The work-study students usually work between 10 to 12 hours [a week],” she said.

Pepper also tries to work with some Human Development and Family Science classes. She said the hands-on experience is good for students’ education.

UCC is a nonprofit organization that receives funding from ISU, the Department of Residence, the Government of the Student Body, United Way of Story County, the city of Ames and Story County.

Tracy Yetter, program coordinator for preschool-aged children, took advantage of the summer to involve the children in outdoor activities and field trips. Some of their favorite places to visit were the fire station, the park, the pool and the Science I building, she said.

“After 10 years of working here, I still love it,” Yetter said. “Kids are fun and keep you young.”

For more enrollment information, call 294-9838 or visit UCC’s Web site, www.public.iastate.edu/~ucc/homepage.html.