On Monday, July 11, 2011, the Board of Directors of Olympia Early Learning Center voted to cease operations effective July 29, 2011. One of the few non-profit early learning and child care centers in Thurston County, OELC has served the early educational needs of thousands of low income children and their families for over forty years. With the financial assistance of many public and private entities in the greater Olympia area, the organization has weathered many storms, however a weakened financial condition and cuts in state support proved too great a mountain to climb.

The Board wishes to thank the generosity and support of our fellow citizens who have provided thousands of volunteer hours as well as our financial supporters and non-profit allies who have sustained us through the years.

The reasons for closure include the cumulative effects of years of inadequate funding for children who are funded by the state, increasing operating costs, the effects of this recession and recent public relations challenges. It is a very sad event as the talented and committed staff says one final farewell to the delightful children and parents they have served so well.

Olympia Early Learning Center shall not discriminate against an employee, job applicant, client or parent seeking services on the grounds of race, creed, color, national origin, age sex, marital status, veteran status, sexual orientation, or the presence of any disability.

© 2011 Olympia Early Learning Center