The West End Daycare Centre is gearing up for a milestone celebration as it marks its 50th anniversary this coming Friday, October 4. The centre has become a cornerstone of the community since it started in 1974, providing quality childcare and fostering meaningful relationships among families.
Janice Delf, the current director of the centre, expressed her pride in its legacy.
"The centre has been vibrant in this community for a very long time. Our first director, Jan Lucas, laid a strong foundation, and we've built on that by expanding our services to meet the evolving needs of families."
Delf highlighted the unique aspects of the centre, including its extended hours and school transportation services, which cater to the diverse schedules of parents. Delf also shared some history about the centre:
- 1975 they introduced extended hours
- 1979 the centre had a thrift store up in the area where offices now sit
- 1983 they purchased the building
- 1988 the addition was built
- 1993 weekend care was introduced
To kick off the anniversary celebrations, the centre held its annual general meeting (AGM) featuring a magician to entertain the children. This Sunday, families currently enrolled at the daycare are invited to an exclusive event at the Shindleman Aquatic Centre from 5 to 7 p.m., complete with snacks and festivities.
"It's a chance for us to recognize the importance of being in the community for 50 years."
Delf added that commemorative T-shirts featuring a logo designed by staff members Kaylene Neudorf and Keely Leonhardt will also be distributed.
Long-time ECE worker Amanda Sutherland, who has been part of the West End family for 23 years, reflected on the centre's positive atmosphere.
"It's just a really great place to be. Everyone here is a nurturer, and that positivity is contagious. We're all here to help our future generations."
Sutherland's personal connection to the daycare has come full circle as a former child who attended the centre before starting her career there.
As the centre celebrates its past, it also looks to the future.
"We've made several improvements over the years, including new turf and playground upgrades. It's nice to see how the place is always changing and welcoming new staff members, many of whom also came here as children."
Chloe Cleaver, a current child attending the centre, shares her favourite part about West End and her love for her daycare leader.
"I like making the paper flowers. Keely is my favourite because she takes care of me when I'm sad and when my parents leave."
The influence of the centre extends beyond childcare. Margaret Nelissen, who retired after nearly 34 years at West End, reminisced about her time there.
"It's really awesome to see former kids grow up and remember you fondly. We make a big impact on their lives."
She emphasized the importance of building a safe and welcoming community for families.
With the demand for childcare services at an all-time high, Delf acknowledged the challenges of keeping up with the needs of parents.
"We strive to be flexible and meet everyone’s needs, even when resources are limited."
As the West End Daycare Centre prepares for its anniversary celebration, it continues to exemplify commitment to quality care and community involvement. The centre's legacy not only highlights the past, but also inspires hope for the future, ensuring that it remains a beloved fixture in Portage for years to come.