Hello everyone, and thank you for taking the time to read my story. My name is DeShawn, and together with Christi, we are opening a diversity-based childcare program in Eugene, Oregon. With over 30 years of combined experience in childcare, we are passionate about creating a nurturing, home-based environment for children from infants through 12 years old. Eugene is considered a childcare desert, and we know how urgent it is to provide a safe, inspiring space for families in our community.

Our mission is to offer a program where children and parents feel supported, inspired, and deeply connected to nature, community, and creativity. We believe in the power of positive male and female role models, and our curriculum is designed to foster whole-child development. Children will experience nature and science exploration, art and creative expression, circle time to build confidence and community, outdoor adventures, and dramatic play that encourages imagination and social skills. Each week, our program introduces garden growing, environmental care, recycled-material art, STEM building, multicultural learning, music, movement, and more. These activities teach responsibility, curiosity, and respect for the world around them in a fun, developmentally appropriate way.

To make this vision a reality, we need help covering essential start-up costs: safety and licensing equipment, educational supplies, outdoor play items, sustainability tools, classroom furniture, and licensing fees. Your support will help us open our doors quickly and provide a much-needed resource for families in Eugene. We are deeply grateful for any contribution—big or small—that helps us create a safe, creative, and inclusive space for children to thrive.