New Early Childcare Facility Breaks Ground in Rock Island

A new early childcare and education facility is set to be constructed in Rock Island, Illinois, by the non-profit organization SAL Community Service. A groundbreaking ceremony took place at the corner of 21st and 11th, where community members, staff, and lawmakers gathered to initiate the project. The new facility is expected to be completed by October 2024.

The planned building will span 32,000 square feet and include 12 classrooms, which will accommodate up to 192 students. This represents a significant increase of 25% in enrollment capacity compared to the current facility, which has been in operation since 1970.

Community and Educational Impact

During the ceremony, SAL President Marcy Mendenhall emphasized the need for this new facility, referencing a 2017 study that indicated the existing structure had “lived its full life.” Mendenhall expressed optimism regarding the modern design of the new building, stating, “The facility is going to be state of the art. It’s going to have lots of windows. It’s going to be really a creative space for our children and our staff to be able to do all sorts of different learning activities.”

The total estimated cost of the new facility is $15.4 million. Currently, SAL Community Service has successfully raised $12.9 million, which includes $7.5 million from public funding. Notably, former Congressman Cheri Bustos played a vital role in securing $4 million prior to her departure from office. Bustos remarked, “It’s a reminder of what happens when you have vision and federal resources and local resources. It really is about real progress for real people.”

Future Plans and Community Collaboration

To secure the remaining funds needed for completion, SAL Community Service has launched its “Building a Better Future” campaign. This initiative aims to raise additional funds to finish construction, furnish classrooms, and support ongoing programs. Mendenhall noted, “It’s been amazing to have both the federal and state level support. Early care and education is a bipartisan effort to ensure that they understand early care and education is really about two generations.”

In a unique partnership, the new facility will collaborate with Friendship Manor, a nearby senior living community. Residents will have the opportunity to engage with children through structured learning experiences, storytelling, and creative projects. Ted Pappas, CEO of Friendship Manor, highlighted the benefits of this intergenerational programming, stating, “Children help take away loneliness for our seniors. This great project is going to be transformative because our elders will be able to come right down the hill and interact with children every day.”

The development of this new early childcare facility is anticipated to significantly enhance educational opportunities for young children in Rock Island while fostering meaningful connections between generations. The project reflects a commitment to investing in the future of the community and its youngest members.