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Jennifer Poore has been named the recipient of Childcare Resources of Indian River’s second annual Early Childhood Educator of the Year Award, recognizing more than a decade of dedication to young children and families.

Your Fall 2026 Childcare Resources connections, featuring preschool graduates, wellness and early intervention, and educator success.

Childcare Resources of Indian River has secured $1,958,600 in New Markets Tax Credits financing to support the organization’s new Campus of Early Childhood Excellence in downtown Vero Beach. Across the nation, families continue to face a critical shortage of affordable, high-quality childcare and early education. Childcare Resources is addressing that challenge locally by creating a purpose-built campus.

“Graduation is a wonderful reflection of the heart of our mission,” said Childcare Resources executive director, Shannon McGuire Bowman. “These students demonstrate what is possible when children have access to nurturing, developmentally focused early learning opportunities. We are honored to prepare them for kindergarten and remain committed to leading the way in early childhood education in Indian River County.”

The appropriation was made possible through the support and advocacy of Representative Robert Brackett and Senator Debbie Mayfield, who championed this critical initiative and supported its inclusion in the state budget.

Our Impact Report offers a snapshot of what we accomplished together over the past year. Below, you'll see the measurable impact of your generosity, from children receiving life-changing therapy and early intervention services on our campus, to hundreds of early educators gaining knowledge through professional development, to working parents able to remain in the workforce because they have access to safe, high-quality early education for their children.

“These graduates represent dedication and a deep commitment to children,” says Shannon McGuire Bowman, Executive Director of Childcare Resources. “We are proud to support educators as they grow, because their growth directly strengthens the experiences of the children they serve.”

"It was a pleasure visiting Childcare Resources and seeing how the organization’s programs extend support and services throughout the community,” said Miller. “The work being done is truly meaningful, and I wish the team continued success into their new facility.”

A morning of play-based discovery unfolded as Coastal Connections, a nonprofit dedicated to sea turtle conservation, visited students at Childcare Resources of Indian River. “Seeing the enthusiasm of students while they learn something new is impactful,” said Childcare Resources Executive Director Shannon McGuire Bowman. “Collaborations like this bring learning to life and create lasting impressions that support both education and a deeper appreciation for our environment.”

More than 185 participants, including members, their families and guests, and Childcare Resources staff, took part in the April 3 event, enjoying a scenic course, breakfast, and awards ceremony. In total, more than 120 members contributed through sponsorships and donations, helping to raise a record $35,000.

“Week of the Young Child is a meaningful reminder of how powerful early learning experiences can be,” said Shannon McGuire Bowman, Executive Director of Childcare Resources. “Our NAEYC accreditation reflects the level of care and intentional teaching happening every day, and this week is a chance to celebrate that alongside our families, volunteers, and educators.”

“This is an opportunity for our community to see the real impact of their support,” said Shannon McGuire Bowman, Executive Director of Childcare Resources. “It allows us to reflect on what we’ve accomplished together and share how those investments are directly strengthening outcomes for children and families in our community.”

The Florida Chamber Foundation’s research will gather input from parents, providers, educators, and community stakeholders to identify gaps, barriers, and opportunities in the local early education system. Community feedback is a vital part of the study, and all responses will remain confidential.

Childcare Resources of Indian River recently welcomed Dr. Nefertiti Poyner for a dynamic professional learning workshop, “I’ll Bring the Joy: Finding Purpose, Passion and Peace in Early Childhood Education.” Held at the Vero Beach Museum of Art, the event brought together 110 early childhood educators from 24 centers across Indian River County for a day centered on renewed purpose.

Love was in the air at this year’s Windsor Charity Polo Cup as Childcare Resources of Indian River proudly participated as one of the event’s beneficiaries. Held on Valentine’s Day, the annual gathering brought together community members from across Indian River County for an afternoon of sport, generosity, and celebration in support of local nonprofits.

Childcare Resources of Indian River celebrated another successful Starfest on February 10, its signature fundraising event dedicated to strengthening early childhood education. With the support of nearly 400 attendees across the luncheon and evening celebration, Starfest once again rallied the community around the urgent need to invest in young children and working families.

Shannon McGuire Bowman, Executive Director of Childcare Resources, emphasized the broader impact of the program. “Supporting early educators beyond our own classrooms allows us to extend our mission far beyond the walls of our school,” she said. “By investing in educators in our community, we are reaching more children with high-quality early learning experiences and helping to build a stronger foundation for lifelong success."

In this issue: Starfest, Founders' Award, Lifting Early Educators, Little Hands, Big Brain Development, and Early Screenings, Early Success!