Bethany Legacy Foundation is proud to award $3 million to Madison Consolidated Schools for the new Madison Early Learning Center. A project that will expand access to safe, high-quality childcare for families across Jefferson County.

Right now, our county is a childcare desert. Many parents struggle to find reliable options, which impacts families, employers, and the strength of our local workforce. The Early Learning Center will help change that reality by growing from a 4-room pilot program to a 23 classroom facility that can serve up to 366 children and their families.

To encourage community support, we are also committing a $1 million match. Every dollar contributed by local businesses, organizations, and residents will be matched up to $1 million, doubling impact and ensuring the long-term success of this project.

“Quality childcare is a family and community issue,” said Dora Anim, President and CEO of Bethany Legacy Foundation. “This investment is about supporting working parents, strengthening our local workforce, and making Jefferson County a place where families and talent want to put down roots.”

The Early Learning Center will feature an Indoor Play Space for children enrolled, a Community Sensory Room and Play Therapy Space available to families across the county, and an Immersive Garden and Playscape that combines outdoor learning and play for both students and the community.

“Early learning is vital to a healthy community,” shared Dr. Brown, Superintendent of Madison Consolidated Schools.  “Working side by side with community leaders, we are going to be able to change lives through early childhood care and education. The MCS Early Learning Center will be a safe, engaging, and nurturing environment for children, and a reliable, affordable childcare option for families. We are very grateful for the financial support of the Bethany Legacy Foundation grant and the additional fund-matching opportunity. With the financial support of the Roger and Jane Williams family / Royer Corporation, LLC, as well as the funding support from the TyLin Foundation, we have successfully kicked off this match campaign to help fund an amazing community center. I appreciate the investment Jane, Roger, and the TyLin Foundation are making in our kids and families. As a community, we are building something that will positively impact generations in Jefferson County.”

This project is a key step in our Legacy 2030 vision to create a sustainable, self-reliant, and healthy Jefferson County. Set to open in Fall 2027, the Madison Early Learning Center will serve as vital support for families today and a cornerstone of our community’s growth for generations.

We are grateful to Madison Consolidated Schools for leading this effort and excited to partner in building brighter futures together.