Starfest 2026 Welcomes Major General Mike Hall for a Powerful Celebration of Early Learning
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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.
The luncheon, held at Quail Valley River Club, featured keynote speaker Major General Mike Hall. Drawing on decades of military leadership and national service, Hall delivered a compelling message about the connection between strong early childhood systems and the long-term stability of our nation.
“If we want to fix the challenges facing this country, we have to start at the beginning,” said Hall. “High-quality early childhood education is not optional. The security and future of our nation begin with our youngest learners. When we invest in early childhood education, we invest in a stronger, more prepared America.”
Hall emphasized that the first five years of life shape everything that follows. He shared that long before leadership is developed or careers are chosen, the foundation is laid in those earliest years, where encouragement and access to quality education make all the difference.
“Major General Hall echoes how important our mission truly is,” said Childcare Resources Executive Director Shannon McGuire Bowman. “When we support our youngest children, we are shaping the future resilience and success of our nation. That work starts right here in Indian River County.”
The evening event was held at Quail Valley at The Pointe, where guests gathered under the stars for a cocktail reception and further conversation about the organization’s expanding impact, including its new downtown campus currently under development.
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