[Congressional Record Volume 145, Number 146 (Monday, October 25, 1999)]
[Senate]
[Page S13106]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                  WOMEN'S BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT CENTER

 Mr. DURBIN. Mr. President, I rise today to recognize the 
Women's Business Development Center in their efforts to help female 
entrepreneurs establish their niche in the corporate world. The WBDC 
helps train and provide technical assistance to entrepreneurial women. 
These are the same women who own your neighborhood dry cleaner, run 
your child care center, and assist with your taxes.
  Mr. President, I would like to call special attention to the women 
who have dedicated their time expanding child-care availability in 
Illinois. The WBDC sponsors the Child Care Business Initiative (CCBI) 
in cooperation with the Hull House Association that will provide 
information, resources, and guidance to women seeking entry into this 
important and growing industry. Over 250 women have utilized CCBI to 
gain critical business skills and key industry information about child 
care.
  The Illinois Department of Commerce and Community Affairs estimates 
that over 1,000 child care centers would need to be created to meet the 
projected demand for child care in Illinois alone. In light of the fact 
that only 20% of the 162,000 children who are in working families 
receive full-day, licensed child care, the role that the CCBI plays in 
helping women establish day care centers may have a significant impact 
on the availability and accessibility of child care in Illinois.
  Again, I would like to take this time to commend the WBDC for 
creating and expanding opportunities for ambitious, women 
entrepreneurs.

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