This is an inspiring and impactful episode with Rachel Davis, founder of Children’s Promise Centers, an early childhood program in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Operating 20 hours daily, her centers provide critical support for working families often overlooked by traditional child care models.

Rachel chats with Kris about her journey from the Denver Rescue Mission to creating a faith-driven, community-focused child care network where high standards, deep relationships, and genuine care intersect.

She shares the heart behind her mission to support nontraditional working families through innovative programming and reflects on her leadership evolution, from being hands-on with every detail to stepping into a visionary role. Rachel also discusses navigating hiring challenges, working with refugee families, and building a program where inclusion, safety, and excellence are the foundation.

Key Takeaways:

[5:33 ] Rachel launched Children’s Promise Centers in 2009. Now she operates two locations in Albuquerque and is open 20 hours a day, serving families who need flexible care.
[6:37 ] Her journey began in Denver at the Rescue Mission, where she discovered a passion for supporting the working poor.
[10:50 ] Starting Children’s Promise wasn’t easy — Rachel faced funding barriers and self-doubt but found clarity by leaning into faith.
[13:29 ] One grant rejection helped her clarify her mission — family support, not just academic outcomes.
[16:35 ] Rachel became an early adopter of online learning tools and video systems long before it was common in child care.
[22:21 ] Her passion is serving the working poor — families who don’t qualify for help but still struggle to access care.
[24:10 ] Children’s Promise is the only program in Albuquerque open until 2 a.m., meeting a unique community need.
[24:45 ] Monthly family dinners offer a chance for connection, storytelling, and celebration.
[25:58 ] Her team focuses on relational care, celebrating small wins, like a child’s first steps.
[27:00 ] They’ve supported families who are refugees, including children with medical needs and trauma backgrounds.
[30:24 ] Security is high-tech, featuring “James Bond-style” systems and extensive training for staff.
[32:19 ] Rachel reflects on her shift from being in every detail to trusting her team with day-to-day operations.
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