On March 24, KinderCare kicked off what is going to be a year of growth for the brand with the opening of Hickman KinderCare Learning Center in Clive, Iowa! More than 370 visitors braved a snowstorm to celebrate the center's grand opening, designed as an Iowa State Fair themed event.   

"It's been an unbelievable journey to see this center come to life," said Regional Director Stephanie Sturdevant-Ward. "You'd think by the buzz in the center during the grand opening celebration that we've been in the community for years – the team work­ed together so well."

At the grand opening event, KinderCare families and community members enjoyed a petting zoo, fair-themed snacks, curriculum activities, and had the opportunity to mingle with their teachers. Local mascots Cy the Cardinal from Iowa State University and Cubby from the Iowa Cubs joined in the fun. And of course, families heard all about what KinderCare offers from Center Director Rachel Ross, District Leader Anna Patterson and Regional Director Stephanie Sturdevant-Ward.

"I was so proud of our brand that day," said Susie O'Dell, Operations Business Partner for the Central Region. "Our teachers were enthusiastic, warm, and so professional. The teamwork and cooperation was a representation of the engagement the team has created in such a short time."

"We are absolutely over the moon to contribute to the growth of the company with a passion for the community we're serving," said Stephanie. "It takes teamwork to make the dream work, and I'm humbled by the way our field team and NSC partners worked together to make this center's opening a success!"

Hickman KinderCare is the first brand-new KinderCare center to open this year. New KinderCare Learning Centers are planned to open in 2018 in New York City, Washington, D.C., Los Angeles, and Las Vegas.

Congratulations to the Hickman KinderCare team and welcome to the family!