Complete the Circle of Care for Our Community
We're building an Early Learning Center to serve children ages 0–5 and their families. With over $5.2 million already raised, we're moving forward on a vision that will transform generations.
South Bend has a child care crisis
Fifteen thousand children need quality care. Only eight thousand seats exist. The gap is real, and families are struggling to find solutions.
The first years shape everything
Eighty percent of brain development happens before age three. High-quality early education sets the foundation for everything that follows: academic success, emotional resilience, and long-term wellbeing.
Children develop stronger academic skills
Early learners show better school readiness and performance
Quality care creates lasting life advantages
We made a promise we couldn't keep alone
Tessa was sixteen when Kade was born. We promised to support them both for the long haul. We meant it with everything we had. But individual effort and good intentions weren't enough to sustain that promise.
Tessa needed reliable childcare to finish school
Kade needed quality early learning during critical years
Our existing systems couldn't meet their needs
The Early Learning Center
We're creating space where children grow and families find solid ground. The Center will serve over 100 children from infancy through age five.
More than walls and classrooms
This center will provide a safe and nurturing environment where children can grow, learn, and develop during the most important years of their lives. Families will have access to support, encouragement, and resources that strengthen the home as well as the child.
For the past four years, we have been praying, planning, and preparing alongside partners and experts to make this vision possible.
Built on what children need
Our Early Learning Center is designed to support both children and their families in meaningful ways.
Accessible and Relational Enrollment
We help families navigate enrollment and access resources that make care more affordable.
High-Quality Care
We invest in experienced leadership, trained teachers, and strong classroom environments.
Family Support
We connect parents with resources and support through our Family Empowerment Center.
Whole-Child Development
Children grow spiritually, socially, emotionally, physically, and cognitively through hands-on learning and play.
Completing the Circle
Transformation Ministries has spent years investing in students and families through programs that support kindergarten, elementary school, middle school, high school, and beyond. There has always been a gap in the earliest years.
The Early Learning Center allows us to support children from infancy through young adulthood within one connected community. This creates a consistent foundation for growth, belonging, and long-term impact.
A Vision Already in Motion
Transformation Ministries has a history of showing up and following through. Programs have grown from a small group of students to serving hundreds of families each year.
More than $5.2 million has already been committed toward this vision.
This work is already underway, and the next step is within reach.
From vision to open doors
We shift from quiet fundraising to broad community engagement. Design is finalized and site preparation begins.
2024
Form Advisory Committee
Business Plan
Site Visits
2025
Select Consultant
Select Construction Company
Design Building/Layout
Select Curriculum
Begin Capital Campaign
2026
Hire Director
Ground Breaking on Building
Complete Capital Campaign
2027
Apply for Licensing
Hire Teachers
Enroll Students
Ribbon Cutting & Soft Launch of Transformation Early Learning Center
The cost of transformation
We are raising approximately $6.5 to $8 million to build and launch this center. Every dollar goes directly toward creating a space where children and families thrive.
Construction, renovation, and site development
Classrooms, learning spaces, and safety systems
Staffing, training, and family support resources
Multiple ways to make a difference
This work needs more than money. It needs commitment, presence, and belief. Find the way that fits you.
Give financially
Make a financial contribution to the One Campaign
Volunteer your skills
Serve through work days or existing programs
Expand the circle
Introduce others who may want to support this work
Hold this in prayer
Pray for the people and resources needed to bring this vision to life
What role will you play?
Children are waiting. Families are counting on us. The time is now. This is an opportunity to be part of something that will shape lives for generations.
