Search Results

Marilyn Brock (L) accepts Early Childhood Educator of the Year award from Shannon McGuire Bowman (R). Brock has dedicated over 30 years of service to young children and families. Childcare Resources of Indian River proudly presented the inaugural Early Childhood Educator of the Year Award to Marilyn Brock in recognition of her more than 30 years of service to young children and families. The award was created to honor the professionalism of early educators and to highlight the essential role they play in shaping children’s lives. The presentation took place during Childcare Resources’ Conscious Discipline professional learning workshop at the Vero Beach Museum of Art. Tara Beard, Childcare Resources School Director, praises Brock’s impact. “The kindness and patience she shows to her students and their families is remarkable,” says Beard. “Marilyn is everything Childcare Resources represents, and we are blessed to have her.” Finalist Terrie Sears (L) alongside Head Start St. Helen’s School Director Camilla Andersen. All finalists were nominated by their school directors, a testament to the deep respect and admiration they have earned within their own communities. “There’s nothing more rewarding than knowing that I’ve made an impact,” says Brock. “I get to celebrate accomplishments throughout the day and watch my students grow. No matter how many days I do this, it never gets old.” Finalist Nicole Patton (R) alongside Kidtastic Large Family Daycare Director Kathryn Muth. “Marilyn’s dedication as an educator goes beyond teaching,” says Shannon McGuire Bowman, Executive Director of Childcare Resources. “She has created a nurturing environment where children feel valued and families feel supported. Her lifelong commitment to this work is a gift to our community.” In addition to honoring Brock, Childcare Resources recognized the outstanding success of other finalists: Terrie Sears at Head Start St. Helen’s, Nicole Patton at Kidtastic Large Family Daycare, Genesis Sosa at Global Learning of Vero, Rose Marie Heaton at Trinity Episcopal School, and Mauricia Flynn at Bridges ELC. Together, these educators exemplify the passion and dedication that strengthen early childhood education.

Graduates of Childcare Resources’ Class of 2025 proudly celebrate their achievement before heading to kindergarten. Childcare Resources of Indian River recently celebrated the graduation of the Class of 2025, honoring a group of young learners who are now prepared to take their next big step into kindergarten. Families, teachers, and supporters filled the room with pride and joy as students were recognized for their accomplishments and growth. Graduation day at Childcare Resources is always a special moment, marking the culmination of years of learning, friendship, and development. This year’s celebration featured student performances of five songs, including one with sign language accompaniment, demonstrating the academic skills the children have built during their time in the program. Students perform a song for families, teachers, and school volunteers, reciting the ABCs in sign language. “These students are leaving us with strong foundations that will carry them into kindergarten and beyond,” said Executive Director Shannon McGuire Bowman. “It’s a joyful and emotional milestone, and a reminder of how high-quality early education transforms tomorrow for children and their families.” Families, teachers, and volunteers all played a role in making the moment meaningful. For parents, the ceremony was more than a celebration—it was proof of what their children have achieved through support, care, and opportunity. “This program has made a big difference for my son,” said program parent Yulisa Romero. “I’ve seen how much he’s grown, and I know he’s truly ready for kindergarten. It means everything to know he’s ready for this next step.” Childcare Resources looks forward to welcoming a new class of students for the 2025–2026 school year and invites the community to learn more about how to get involved. For more information about volunteer opportunities, please visit Childcare Resources’ website: ChildcareResourcesIR.org .

Early Childhood Education Coach Todd Morrow pictured with participants of the Summer Community of Practice, including early educators from Kendall Academy Preschool, Childcare Resources of Indian River, KidCity USA, First Presbyterian Preschool, RCMA, and Bridges Early Learning Center. Throughout July, early childhood educators from across Indian River County gathered weekly for Childcare Resources’ Summer Community of Practice, a professional development series led by Early Childhood Education Coach Todd Morrow. This summer session saw such strong interest that it quickly filled and even had a waitlist, showing just how committed local educators are to growth and collaboration. A community of practice is a collaborative group where educators meet regularly to share successes, discuss challenges, and exchange ideas. In the summer session, participants focused on CLASS assessments, which measure the quality of teacher-child interactions that impact learning and development. Educators reflected on their progress, shared classroom footage, and explored new techniques, leading to stronger relationships, improved instruction, and more positive learning environments. Childcare Resources’ Summer Community of Practice drew high interest from local early educators, filling quickly and even generating a waitlist. “This type of collaborative professional development is critical,” says Shannon McGuire Bowman, Executive Director of Childcare Resources. “When educators from across the community come together to share ideas, reflect honestly, and support one another, it elevates the quality of care and learning for all children in Indian River County.” Debbie Ann Simpson of Bridges Early Learning Center said the experience was deeply meaningful. “Being part of this class allowed me to enhance my skills and expertise while gaining support and insight from other educators. I left each session feeling more confident and inspired to grow.” Community of Practice is part of Childcare Resources’ ongoing commitment to strengthening early education by supporting the professionals who provide it. Additional sessions are already being planned, with more opportunities ahead for local educators to build skills and share ideas.

Students in the Chrysanthemums classroom proudly share their favorite pages from the Triton Submarines “look book,” inspired by a recent classroom visit. Childcare Resources of Indian River was thrilled to welcome Sophie Bentham-Wood, Executive Director of Global Marketing at Triton Submarines, for a special visit with students in the Chrysanthemums classroom. The visit was a highlight for the four-year-olds, who have been diving into the world of submarines as part of their recent learning journey. Students explore marine life featured in Triton Submarines’ deep-sea adventures, sparking curiosity and imagination. Mrs. Bentham-Wood toured the campus before joining the Chrysanthemums classroom, where eager students were ready to greet her. The children, who have been learning about the ocean and how submarines explore deep waters, were excited to ask questions. As a special gift, Mrs. Bentham-Wood brought Triton Submarines’ brochures for each student. The “look books,” filled with vibrant images and information on the various submarine models manufactured by Triton right here in Indian River County, gave students a tangible connection to what they’ve been studying in the classroom. “This kind of experience brings learning to life,” said Shannon McGuire Bowman, Executive Director of Childcare Resources. “To see our students’ faces light up with excitement and curiosity as they talked to someone who works with real submarines shows how deeply these local connections can inspire and inform.” For Childcare Resources, the visit reflects the value of community partnerships in supporting early learning. By connecting students with local industries, the organization helps expand their understanding of the world—and what’s possible. “Sharing our passion for submarine design with young minds is always a highlight,” said Mrs. Bentham-Wood. “We aim to inspire all generations to care for our oceans and discover the wonders below.” Childcare Resources continues to connect with leaders and organizations across Indian River County to create meaningful learning opportunities for its students.

Amanda Wolfe, Zulma Gonzalez, Davie Peek, Tatum Auguste, Stephanie Calogero, Kristina Iiams, and Michelle Baldwin celebrate the end of a successful year in the Higher Education Program. These dedicated early educators serve children and families at Childcare Resources, Head Start (Douglas and Citrus), and Oceans Christian Academy. Childcare Resources of Indian River recently celebrated the accomplishments of local early childhood educators completing its Higher Education Program. At a special gathering held in May, graduates were honored for earning credentials and degrees that will advance their careers and strengthen the quality of early education in Indian River County. During the celebration, Childcare Resources recognized seven spring graduates who earned the Florida Child Care Professional Credential and one who achieved a Bachelor of Science degree. An additional three participants are on track to complete their Associate of Science degrees this summer. Higher Education Program graduates Yenni Kristianson (L) and Kristina Iiams (R) are grateful to Childcare Resources for the opportunity to grow professionally and advance their careers through continued education. “Earning my early childhood degree gave me pride and renewed my passion for teaching,” says Kristina Iiams, an early educator at Citrus Head Start. “The support from Childcare Resources meant everything. They believed in me, guided me, and celebrated each step.” The Higher Education Program is designed specifically to support early childhood educators, offering flexible scheduling to accommodate working professionals. Tuition assistance is made possible through the TEACH Early Childhood Scholarship Program, and students benefit from partnerships with accredited colleges and universities throughout Florida. “This program is not just about individual achievement, it’s about elevating the profession of early childhood education as a whole,” says Shannon McGuire Bowman, Executive Director of Childcare Resources. “We are incredibly proud of these educators who have committed themselves to learning and growth while continuing to support the children in our community every day.” With each graduating class, the program continues to help build a stronger, better-prepared, early education workforce—one that ensures children have the foundation they need for lifelong success.

Early educators from Childcare Resources gather for a group photo, representing the dedication, expertise, and professionalism they bring to their classrooms each day. Childcare Resources recently celebrated Teacher Appreciation Week by honoring the heart of its organization: its dedicated early educators. With the support of generous volunteers and the Program Committee, a full week of special breakfasts, lunches, snacks, and meaningful gifts were planned to show deep appreciation for the staff. Childcare Resources early educators enjoy a well-deserved taco lunch, generously provided by the Program Committee as a token of appreciation for their hard work for children and families. “Our teachers are the foundation of everything we do,” says Shannon McGuire Bowman, Executive Director of Childcare Resources. “Their remarkable hard work and dedication show in every lesson taught, every moment of care, and ultimately in the success of each child who walks through our doors.” (L–R) Early educators Tatum Auguste, Kim Martinez, Maddy Dotson, and Erika Rafuls enjoy a special breakfast before the day begins. Childcare Resources takes immense pride in the ongoing commitment of its teachers to high-quality early childhood education. Many educators are actively pursuing higher education degrees and certifications, and all staff members engage in annual professional development to deepen their practice. Over the past academic year, staff participated in a variety of enriching workshops covering topics such as nurturing children in nature, learning through mistakes in the classroom, and the Reggio Emilia approach. "Being recognized for the work we do truly means a lot, and having a week dedicated to that appreciation makes us feel seen and valued," says Maddy Dotson, an early educator at Childcare Resources. "We’re not just teaching; we’re giving back to the community and helping build a brighter future for every child." Teacher Appreciation Week served as both a celebration and a reminder of the important role educators play in shaping the lives of young learners. With the support of the community and a strong focus on continued growth, Childcare Resources remains committed to investing in the educators who make high-quality early learning possible.

Meredith Egan, CEO of United Way of Indian River, reads Dragons Love Tacos to excited program students in the Hedgehog classroom. Childcare Resources of Indian River proudly joined thousands of schools and libraries nationwide in celebrating Children’s Book Week , the country’s longest-running national literacy initiative. Now in its 105th year, the annual event shines a spotlight on the power of books and the importance of nurturing a lifelong love of reading. Throughout the week, local leaders and community partners visited the classrooms at Childcare Resources to read their favorite children’s stories. Each day featured a new guest reader who helped bring books to life and share the joy of storytelling with students from infancy through age five. “We are incredibly grateful to the community members who joined us to celebrate,” says Shannon McGuire Bowman, Executive Director of Childcare Resources. “Early literacy experiences are essential. They build the foundation for language, curiosity, and a love of learning.” Program students in the Chrysanthemum classroom receive a special visit from Kelly Baysura, Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum and Instruction for the School District of Indian River County and Childcare Resources Board of Director. Research shows that early exposure to books and storytelling plays a critical role in cognitive development, vocabulary growth, and later academic success. Among the guest readers was Meredith Egan, CEO of United Way of Indian River. “It was a truly special experience to share stories with children at Childcare Resources,” says Egan. “It fosters their love of books and sparks their imagination. There is something magical about seeing a story unfold through their eyes. Plus, it's a joy to spend time with such energetic kids. It is a refreshing change from the office.” Childcare Resources remains committed to enriching the lives of children through high-quality early education, with literacy at the heart of its approach. By celebrating Children’s Book Week, the organization not only honors a treasured tradition but also strengthens its mission of helping every child build a strong foundation for kindergarten and beyond.

On Artsy Thursday, program students in the Hedgehog classroom work together on a vibrant tie-dye project, which not only fosters creativity but also helps develop fine motor skills, teamwork, and ability to follow instructions. Childcare Resources joined thousands of early childhood programs nationwide to celebrate Week of the Young Child, a national initiative by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC). The event highlights the importance of high-quality early learning and the critical role educators and families play in a child’s development. Four-year-olds in the Ducklings classroom celebrate Tasty Tuesday by exploring a variety of nutritious foods to include in their daily diets. Program students in the Alligator classroom embrace the spirit of Music Monday, dressed as though they were part of Grease . As an NAEYC-accredited program, Childcare Resources embraced this year’s themes with a joyful week of hands-on activities. From music and art to food exploration and family engagement, each day emphasized the power of play-based learning. On Music Monday, students explored sound and rhythm through instruments. Tasty Tuesday invited children to try colorful fruits and vegetables while learning about nutrition and healthy choices. On Artsy Thursday, imaginations flourished as students created open-ended art projects that encouraged self-expression and creativity. “Week of the Young Child is a celebration of everything early childhood education stands for,” said Shannon McGuire Bowman, Executive Director of Childcare Resources. “Through play and creativity children develop foundational skills they’ll carry for life. It’s a time to celebrate the teachers and families who make it all possible.” The week concluded with Family Friday, highlighting the connection between home and school. Children shared family photos and invited loved ones to participate in story time and hands-on classroom activities. “Childcare Resources blessed our family,” said program parent Kate Weaver. “Our son graduates this year, and his growth is incredible. I feel inspired to return as a volunteer and support other children the way they’ve supported ours.” Through joyful learning and meaningful connection, Week of the Young Child reinforced the importance of early education in shaping bright futures.

Childcare Resources of Indian River hosted its Annual Meeting, bringing together supporters, educators, and community leaders to reflect on a year of growth and look ahead to an exciting new era in early childhood education. The evening showcased the organization’s far-reaching impact while highlighting the purchase of a new downtown Vero Beach property, which will be renovated and serve as the future location for its early childhood campus. The event opened with a heartwarming performance from students in the four-year-old classroom, setting the stage for an inspiring overview of the year’s accomplishments. “Tonight is a celebration of gratitude. For our incredible teachers, our devoted families, our volunteers, our partners, and, of course, our supporters,” said Jennifer Peshke, Immediate Past President of the Childcare Resources Board of Directors. “In looking at the academic year so far, it’s clear that the collective efforts of everyone involved have made a profound difference.” This year, Childcare Resources made a significant impact through successful events and community support. Starfest, both the luncheon and evening event, united passionate donors to advance early childhood education. The Donor Advocacy Event with Florida TaxWatch highlighted the economic benefits of investing in early learning. Most importantly, over 3,500 children across Indian River County have been impacted through programming thus far this academic year. Peshke introduced two new members of the Board of Directors: Gail Nourse, a dedicated early childhood advocate and policy leader with a career spanning multiple states and national initiatives, and Xavier Nolasco, a financial leader and Vice President of Business Banking at Bank of America. Following the presentation, guests were invited to explore the school campus, enjoy hors d’oeuvres and drinks, and visit classrooms featuring sensory play projects created by students. For the first time, this year’s event featured a Community of Practice Learning Showcase, where early educators presented their academic work from the year. This exciting new addition offered attendees the opportunity to engage directly with teachers, ask questions, and see firsthand the impact of professional development supported by Childcare Resources. Educators participating in the showcase included Tatum August, Michaela Etter, Loretta Hall, Mavinee LaCroix, Skylar Schrock, Kimberly Knotts, Erika Rafuls, Elizabeth Guthrie, and Michelle Moore from Childcare Resources, along with early childhood professionals from several local schools and centers, including Ocean’s Academy, Maitland Farms Preschool, Bridges Early Learning Center, Migrant Head Start, First Baptist Preschool, Learning Nest, and Dodgertown Elementary. Together, these educators exemplify the power of collaboration and continued learning, showing how Childcare Resources' mission reaches far beyond the walls of our school. During remarks, President-Elect Helen Boehm Johnson expressed gratitude for the Indian River Community Foundation’s $1.5 million impact investment in Childcare Resources’ future downtown campus, highlighting how the momentum it created has propelled the project forward. She also celebrated the community’s incredible response to a match challenge, which successfully raised an additional $1.5 million, doubling the impact of this transformational investment. “This relocation and expansion will allow us to serve even more families, educators, and children in need,” Boehm Johnson said. “It’s an investment in the future of our community.” “The evening was a powerful reminder of our commitment to educational excellence and innovation,” said Shannon McGuire Bowman, Executive Director of Childcare Resources. "With a year of success behind us and a transformational future ahead, we remain dedicated to ensuring that all children, regardless of their circumstances, have access to the strong foundation they need to thrive."

Early educators collaborate on hands-on projects incorporating natural materials. More than 110 early educators from across Indian River County recently joined Childcare Resources for an inspiring professional learning workshop led by Dr. Michele Lucia, focusing on the benefits of outdoor play in early childhood education. Dr. Michele Lucia is a professor in Children’s Studies at Walden University with over twenty years of experience in early childhood education. Her diverse background includes roles as a childcare center director and Montessori teacher. Passionate about outdoor learning, she specializes in promoting hands-on, nature-based strategies that support children’s cognitive, social, and developmental growth. "By helping educators bridge the gap between traditional play and the digital age, we can ensure children develop essential skills through hands-on outdoor experiences," said Dr. Lucia. "These experiences foster creativity, problem-solving, and growth in ways that screen time simply cannot replicate." Discussing the evolution of play, Dr. Lucia noted how outdoor play has diminished in favor of screens and tablets. She emphasized the need for a healthy balance between outdoor activities and digital use to ensure children continue to develop through interactive, experiential learning. "The way children play has changed significantly over time," said Dr. Lucia. "As educators, it's vital we recognize this shift and create intentional opportunities for outdoor engagement that nurture curiosity and critical thinking." The workshop featured interactive, hands-on activities using natural materials, giving educators the opportunity to collaborate, experiment, and engage in creative exploration. These experiences equipped participants with practical strategies they can easily integrate into their own classrooms to enrich outdoor learning for young children. "The best part of the workshop was Dr. Lucia teaching us how to effectively implement outdoor play in our daily routines, as well as creative ways to bring the outdoors in," said Nicole Hill, an early educator at SDIRC Sebastian Elementary. "I’m excited to incorporate these ideas and enhance the way children interact with their environment both inside and outside my classroom." This workshop was offered at no cost to early educators, as part of Childcare Resources’ commitment to continuous learning and professional growth throughout Indian River County. By supporting ongoing education and training for early childhood professionals, the organization ensures that all children in the community have access to high-quality learning experiences. "Outdoor play is a vital part of early childhood development, and at Childcare Resources, we are committed to fostering meaningful experiences in nature," said Shannon McGuire Bowman, Executive Director of Childcare Resources. "Dr. Lucia’s workshop provided valuable insights and actionable tools that educators can take back to their classrooms, ensuring children benefit from more outdoor learning opportunities."

Program parent Gabrielle with son Reece. Building Brighter Futures When Gabrielle was pregnant with her son, Reece, she already knew where his foundation for learning should begin. Working next door at the Alzheimer and Parkinson Association, Gabrielle had the unique opportunity to witness firsthand the unwavering dedication of Childcare Resources. “I could see the commitment the teachers gave to their students” says Gabrielle. “It was an easy and clear decision, even before Reece was born, that this was where his educational journey should start.” Once enrolled, Reece began his journey smoothly, but in his second year, teachers noticed challenges with his speech and physical development. He was barely talking, and his ability to express himself was significantly delayed compared to his peers. As a single parent, Gabrielle worried about his future. But thanks to the comprehensive programs and individualized care at Childcare Resources, Reece’s progress has been nothing short of transformative. On-site speech and physical therapy sessions provided him with the tools to overcome developmental delays. “If the services hadn’t been provided on-site, Reece wouldn’t have received the support he needed due to my demanding schedule. Childcare Resources was crucial to his success.” With Reece in good hands, Gabrielle was able to go back to school, advance her career, and watch her son thrive. She cherishes moments like reading books to Reece’s class and watching him joyfully participate in artistic projects. Knowing that these experiences strengthen her bond with Reece and prepare him for kindergarten, she feels proud to be part of Childcare Resources’ commitment to holistic parent engagement. Gabrielle wants other families to know that Childcare Resources isn’t just a school—it’s a community committed to the success of each child and family. “I credit Reece’s progress to the individualized attention and resources they provide. Teachers, volunteers, and staff show a special interest in my son, and I can see that they make each and every child feel that way,” she says. “I know Reece wouldn’t have received this level of care anywhere else.” Starfest speaker Dr. Dan Wuori and Childcare Resources Executive Director Shannon McGuire Bowman. Center Stage at Starfest Starfest brought together over 400 passionate supporters of early childhood education for two unforgettable events. Held on Monday, February 3rd, at the beautiful Quail Valley River Club and Quail Valley at The Pointe, the event featured renowned early learning expert, advocate, and storyteller Dr. Dan Wuori as guest speaker. “You can think of early childhood like an apprenticeship,” said Dr. Wuori. “This is why choosing an early childhood program is such a pivotal decision. It’s not about finding a babysitter— it’s about deciding who will co-construct your child’s brain.” During the luncheon, Dr. Wuori discussed his new book, challenging the separation between childcare and education in American policy. He was then joined by Executive Director Shannon McGuire Bowman for a Q&A session, where they dove deeper into misconceptions about early learning and discussed actionable steps to prioritize children’s needs. Under the stars on the Indian River, evening attendees had the chance to meet Dr. Wouri in person and hear more about his experiences. He shared his thoughts on Childcare Resources, affirming that its work aligns with and validates the proven impact of high-quality early childhood education. “What I saw this morning at the school blew me away. Childcare Resources is a model of what’s possible with community support, despite the broken financial model of childcare. The real conversation we need to have is how to replicate and scale this success nationwide.” This year’s Starfest was a testament to the collective commitment to supporting early childhood education, and we are grateful to Dr. Wuori and all of our supporters for making it such a memorable day! See more from Starfest! Students in the Chrysanthemum classroom play with sand. Blossoming Minds In the Chrysanthemum classroom, our four-year-olds are taking big steps toward kindergarten readiness through play-based learning that nurtures their curiosity and development. Guided by dedicated teachers Ms. Mavinee and Ms. Michaela, this vibrant classroom brings the Reggio Emilia approach to life, a teaching method they refined through Childcare Resources’ professional development training. “The Reggio Emilia approach allows my students to take the lead in their learning,” said Ms. Mavinee. “By following their natural curiosity, I can create lessons that are meaningful, hands-on, and deeply engaging.” Each day, students engage in sensory play, interactive storytelling, and creative problem-solving activities designed to build essential skills. One such lesson on hibernation had students following two bears, Grinder and Coola, through a live webcam, while creating bear-themed art projects and reading Brown Bear by Eric Carle. The children then explored volcanoes through a sensory play activity with sand and spray bottles. “The students explored books on volcanoes and dinosaurs, deepening their understanding of time and concepts of large numbers,” said Ms. Michaela. “Watching their excitement as they explore, question, and discover is the most rewarding part of teaching.” By blending academics with exploration and imaginative play, the Chrysanthemum classroom ensures that every child gains confidence, independence, and a strong foundation for their next educational adventure. Ballet Vero Beach company members work with students in the Chrysanthemum classroom on a weekly basis. A Beautiful Partnership The Chrysanthemum students also benefit from weekly Movement in Motion sessions with Ballet Vero Beach. This collaboration is a cornerstone of our kindergarten readiness programming, helping students build vital skills through creativity and movement. These lessons heighten creativity and help support the development of gross motor skills. “Dance has many roles in early education, among them communication,” explains Ballet Master Camilo. “Through movement and understanding the meaning of movement, we can communicate with one another. It also develops the body, coordination, balance, and teaches them how to move safely—within their stages.” The students eagerly anticipate each week’s lesson, thrilled to express themselves through movement and hone their skills in new ways. These sessions don’t just prepare them for kindergarten— they build confidence, foster trust, and inspire joy. Higher Education Program graduate Nicole Hill (L) with Childcare Resources Higher Education Program Coordinator Stephanie Harmody. Time to Celebrate! Childcare Resources of Indian River is thrilled to celebrate the achievements of five early childhood educators who have recently graduated through its Higher Education Program. This milestone reflects their commitment to professional growth and dedication to advancing early childhood education in our community. Read more about our graduates! Did you know? Childcare Resources was the first nonprofit to establish an endowment fund with the Indian River Community Foundation in 2013. Today, it remains the Foundation’s oldest and top-performing endowment account among approximately 20 organizations in the Foundation’s Endowment Partner Program. As of the end of 2024, the fund holds a value of $841,108, reflecting strong financial stewardship and long-term sustainability for the organization’s mission. In 2024 alone, the endowment saw an investment growth of $86,000, representing a 12% return. This success ensures continued support for high-quality early childhood education, wellness services, and outreach initiatives, securing a brighter future for children and families in Indian River County for generations to come.

Indian River County Fire Rescue Division conducted a two-day training at Childcare Resources' downtown campus. Pictured in the center is Battalion Chief Kyle Kofke, with Bryan Martin (left), Project Manager with Proctor Construction, and Shannon McGuire Bowman (right), Executive Director of Childcare Resources. The Indian River County Fire Rescue Division recently conducted essential hands-on training at Childcare Resources of Indian River’s newly acquired downtown campus. The soon-to-be-renovated building provided an invaluable opportunity for firefighters to sharpen their skills in real-world scenarios, reinforcing their ability to protect and serve the community. Over the course of two days, firefighters filled the 15,000-square-foot, one-story structure with smoke, practiced breaking through walls, and conducted search-and-rescue drills—all designed to enhance their readiness for real-life emergencies. “The Indian River County Department of Emergency Services, Fire Rescue Division, would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to Childcare Resources and Proctor Construction for their invaluable support,” said Fire Chief David Johnson. “Their willingness to allow our crews to train in a building slated for renovation has been a welcomed addition to our ongoing training efforts. Support from organizations like Childcare Resources is integral to our success in fulfilling our mission to protect the lives and property of Indian River County’s residents and visitors.” Firefighters put their skills to the test inside the 15,000-square-foot building, filling it with smoke, breaking through walls, and performing search-and-rescue drills to prepare for real-life emergency situations. This unique training opportunity was made possible as part of Childcare Resources’ ongoing expansion project. The downtown property, which includes two buildings, will soon undergo interior demolition and renovation, transforming into a state-of-the-art early childhood education campus. Once completed, the new campus will feature a school, an administrative building with wellness and therapy gyms, and a large 300-person training center—significantly revitalizing the heart of downtown Vero Beach. “We are proud to support the Indian River County Fire Rescue Division by offering them this space for vital training,” said Shannon McGuire Bowman, Executive Director of Childcare Resources. “Collaborations like this are what it’s all about—working together to strengthen our community. Just as they helped us with a part of our demolition process, we were honored to give back by providing this opportunity for hands-on learning.” As Proctor Construction prepares for the next phase of the project, this partnership underscores the power of community collaboration. By coming together, Childcare Resources, Proctor Construction, and the Indian River County Fire Rescue Division are ensuring a safer and stronger future for Indian River County.