Calix, 4, has been a part of the Childcare Resources program since 2019. See some of Calix’s story.
Building Bright Futures
Your generosity helped a local family develop the skills needed for success!
Almost a decade ago, Maileigh was in desperate need of childcare. She was a full-time student, finishing a Licensed Practical Nursing program, and she needed a place for her four-month-old daughter, Ava.
When she discovered Childcare Resources, Maileigh was excited to enroll in a high-quality year-round program.
“It’s wonderful to have staff that I trust to leave my children with daily,” says Maileigh. “They are like an extension of my family.”
During her time at Childcare Resources, Ava flourished. When Ava’s younger brother, Avery, was born in 2019, Maileigh was able to enroll him at the school.In addition to childcare, Avery has benefited from physical, occupational, and speech therapies.
“Childcare Resources has provided the support I needed to be sure my children’s developmental needs are met,” says Maileigh.
While her children succeeded at Childcare Resources, Maileigh began to thrive in her career.
“Shortly after I enrolled Ava, I started working as an LPN PRN,” says Maileigh. “In 2022, I graduated with my Associate’s in Nursing. I hope to graduate with my Bachelor’s in 2025.”
Today, Ava is in third grade, excelling in both reading and math. Avery is still a student at the Childcare Resources School and will move to kindergarten in 2024.
“My children have received a phenomenal start to their education,“ says Maileigh. “I wouldn’t have been able to pursue my career goals and continue my education if it wasn’t for you.”
Advancing the field
& studying success
“Thank you for the help you give to everyone that wants to pursue their dream.”
When Kayte first applied for a substitute teaching position at Learning Nest, she didn’t know that she had found her new career.
As a new teacher looking for support, Kayte quickly found Childcare Resources’ outreach programs. She began attending the professional development workshops and working with one of the early education coaches.
When she learned that Childcare Resources also offered the opportunity to earn credentials and degrees in early childhood education, Kayte enrolled in classes right away.
“I was a young mom, and school seemed out of the question for me many years ago,” says Kayte.
With assistance from Childcare Resources staff, Kayte became eligible for incentives, receiving tuition reimbursement and paid time off to attend school. She was even able to purchase a laptop to help with her studies, her first time purchasing such a luxury.
“In three years, I was able to earn my CDA staff credential, my Director’s Credential, and just recently I earned my Associate’s Degree,“ says Kayte. “I finally graduated doing something I love. Thank you for the help you give to everyone that wants to pursue their dream.”
Kayte has since been promoted to Director of Tiny Treasures, Learning Nest’s sister school.
“Kayte is a great asset to our school,“ says Rachna Handa, owner of Learning Nest and Tiny Treasures. “She has set new standards for everyone on our team.”
Seen at Starfest
Thank you for supporting early childhood education for children in our community!
“Knowing that someone cares is the difference between children bending and breaking,” said Dana Winters, Ph D, Executive Director of the Fred Rogers Institute. “Having a relationship – at least one – matters.”
More than 300 people joined Dana and Childcare Resources in support of early childhood education at at this year’s Starfest luncheon and dinner.
At Quail Valley River Club, Dana discussed the idea of simple interactions: the daily moments that build relationships and spark growth in early childhood, using examples previously filmed in local classrooms.
Luncheon attendees saw the Founders Award presented to Karla Spooner in recognition of her long-term dedication and commitment to the mission of Childcare Resources.
Dinner attendees heard the powerful story of Abby, a program parent. After detailing the many resources she and her family had benefited from. Abby shared the success she felt this past summer, when she and her daughter both graduated: Abby with her Bachelor’s, her daughter moving to kindergarten.
As part of the Starfest weekend, Dana also presented a Simple Interactions workshop to more than 150 local early childhood educators, representing more than forty childcare centers and organizations.
“Starfest is a celebration of the love and dedication we have from our supporters,” said Barbie Horton, Starfest co-chair. She continued, “Childcare Resources is multifaceted, supporting children, their parents, and their teachers in all of Indian River County to continue to ignite the minds of children.”
Underwritten by PNC, this video was created by the Fred Rogers Institute and presented at Starfest 2023. View transcript.
You can leave a legacy
Join our Legacy Society by making a gift to our endowment fund today. Giving to the endowment fund increases your impact by allowing Childcare Resources to invest your gift and use the annual earnings to further our important mission.
You can see firsthand how your gift is making a difference while also ensuring your legacy by investing in future generations.
You can make a huge impact
The Childcare Resources School has opportunities for volunteers in multiple classrooms. You can:
-
Read to the class
-
Help with art activities
-
Assist on the playground
-
Provide one-on-one attention
-
Join the class on the playground
-
Rock babies
-
Make a world of difference