Hours: Monday – Friday 6:00am-6:00pm

 

 

CHURUBUSCO — A lot happened at Churubusco Childcare last year, starting with the business’ new Executive Director Michelle Hecht, who took over last march.

Also in March, the childcare center received a $3,000 Grow Up Great Grant from PNC Bank for volunteering their time at the center.

In April and May, the center hosted its Hand in Hand campaign, raising more than $7,000 in monetary and in-kind donations from C&A Tool, Churubusco Family Dentistry, Turtle Town Lube, AquaTek and Churubusco Rotary, as well as several individuals.

“We were able to use these donations for building improvements and classroom enhancements,” Hecht said.

The center has maintained its Level 3 status in Paths to Quality, Indiana’s statewide rating system for early care and education programs.

In July, the center hosted a celebration for its 25-year anniversary with a bounce house, snacks, games and a performance. The childcare center also hosted its first ever Pre-K graduation.

“It was a fantastic time for everyone to see what has been happening at the center,” Hecht said. “We cannot wait for another celebration this July.”

The business received a matching grant from United Way of Whitley County for $2,500, thanks to the Hand in Hand campaign. The grant money went toward creating a music enrichment program, which was kicked off in September. Northeastern REMC also donated $1,000 toward the program.

The music program is led by licensed music therapist, Gentle Rhythms Music.

“Our music enrichment program is one of a kind,” Hecht said. “It’s all inclusive to all children enrolled, ages 6 weeks to Pre-K.”

The children participate in weekly classes, which allow them to explore different instruments, learn and sign new songs and enhance developmental skills.

“The children are absolutely loving this time,” Hecht said. “We cannot wait to watch them grow their love for music, even more than it already has.”

Children at Churubusco Childcare had a busy holiday season with visits from Santa, sending out Christmas cards and getting ready for the new year.

The Community Foundation of Whitley County gave the center $3,000 for creative curriculum supplies.

In October, the center enrolled four teachers into the Child Development Associate (CDA) program. When those four teachers complete their CDA, 85 percent of the staff will have higher education.

The center got a new logo in December, along with a new website at buscochildcare.org.

“While 2016 was a busy year, we expect 2017 to be even better,” Hecht said.

The center is planning several fundraisers, a July celebration, annual garage sale and day-to-day activities for the little ones.

“We want to thank the community for your support — we could not have done this without you,” Hecht said.

If interested in becoming involved at Churubusco Childcare or to enroll your child, contact Hecht at 693-2966 or email churubuscochildcare@gmail.com.