In an effort to support first responders amid the COVID-19 pandemic, child care platform Sittercity partnered with the City of Chicago to launch Chicago Responds that connects first responders with volunteer virtual babysitters. These virtual babysitters typically engage with children on an hourly basis, playing games like Simon Says, I Spy, or 20 Questions as well as activities like kid-friendly yoga and choreographing dances.
The platform offered free use of its services for Chicago-based first responders, enabling them to find virtual care for their families. According to the brand, on average, first responders have four volunteer applicants per request as individuals flock to support these brave men and women. Currently, the program is only serving the Chicago area, however, volunteers are offering free virtual care in other regions.
Volunteer Virtual Babysitting Partnerships
Sittercity & Chicago Responds Offers Free Virtual Care
Trend Themes
1. Virtual Babysitting - Opportunity to develop user-friendly platforms connecting parents with virtual babysitters
2. Volunteer Services - Opportunity to create a platform for other volunteers to offer their services to support first responders
3. Remote Kid Activities - Opportunity to develop an interactive platform for remote kid-friendly activities
Industry Implications
1. Child Care - Opportunity to create innovative solutions that provide working parents with easy to use childcare services
2. Healthcare - Opportunity to create programs that support first responders' wellbeing
3. Non-profit - Opportunity to create digital platforms for non-profit organizations and volunteers to connect and offer support