Local/Region

Chautauqua Lake Child Care Center celebrates 20 years

The Chautauqua Lake Child Care Center marked a significant milestone on Saturday as families, community leaders, educators, former staff, alumni, and supporters gathered to celebrate the Center’s 20th Anniversary. The four-hour celebration honored two decades of providing exceptional early childhood education and care while recognizing the lasting impact the Center has made on generations of children and families throughout Chautauqua County.

Held at the Center’s home on North Erie Street (inside Chautauqua Lake School), the anniversary event welcomed guests of all ages for an afternoon filled with memories, laughter, children’s activities, facility tours, and opportunities to reconnect with those who have been part of the Center’s journey over the past 20 years.

The celebration reflected not only the history of the organization, but also the community partnerships that have helped sustain its mission. Local officials, business leaders, educators, families, and longtime supporters joined together to recognize the essential role quality child care plays in strengthening families, preparing children for success, and supporting the regional workforce. Senator George Borrello and Assemblyman Andrew Molitor both joined with proclamations.

Throughout the day, guests shared stories of the Center’s influence on their lives. Former students returned with families of their own, while past and present staff reflected on the hundreds of children whose lives have been shaped through caring relationships, engaging learning experiences, and a commitment to excellence in early childhood education.

Dr. Beth Starks, Founder and Executive Director of Chautauqua Lake Child Care Center, expressed gratitude for the overwhelming community support. “Today is a celebration of every child who has walked through our doors, every family who trusted us during some of life’s most important years, every educator who dedicated their heart to nurturing young learners, and every community partner who believed in our mission. Twenty years represents thousands of moments that helped build confident children, stronger families, and a healthier community. We are honored by our past and excited for the future.”

The event also highlighted the Center’s continued commitment to innovation and quality in early childhood education. As workforce needs continue to grow across the region, the Center remains dedicated to providing reliable, high-quality child care that enables parents to work, pursue education, and contribute to the local economy while knowing their children are in a safe, nurturing environment. As such, CLCCC announced their new facility will begin being built in the Spring, thanks to a generous grant from New York state. This new site will allow the Center to grow, serving more children and families.

Guests enjoyed refreshments, children’s activities, historical displays showcasing the Center’s evolution over the past two decades, and special recognition of individuals and organizations whose dedication has contributed to the Center’s success.

Community leaders noted that investments in early childhood education benefit not only children but also local businesses and the overall economic vitality of Chautauqua County. The anniversary served as a reminder that quality child care is foundational infrastructure that supports families, employers, and the broader community.

As the celebration concluded, attendees looked toward the future with optimism. The Chautauqua Lake Child Care Center reaffirmed its commitment to serving children and families with the same passion and excellence that has defined its first twenty years.

With a strong foundation built on compassion, quality, and community, the Center enters its next chapter prepared to continue enriching young lives and supporting families for decades to come.