Wee Pals Child Care Center Inc

Wee Pals Child Care Center Inc is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing high-quality early childhood education and care. Licensed and operating in Steele County, Minnesota, Wee Pals has a longstanding history of supporting child development through a nurturing and stimulating environment.

History

Founded in 1970, Wee Pals was the first center-based child care facility in Steele County. It originally served 20 children aged 3 to 5, operating out of a church basement. By 1975, the center expanded its license to accommodate 50 children and relocated to Grandall Hall on the West Hills campus. In 1985, Wee Pals moved again to Merrill Hall, its current location, extending its services to include toddlers and school-age children. Infant care was added in 1989. Presently, the center is licensed for 142 children, though it maintains a target capacity of 102 to ensure individualized attention and quality care[2][5].

Mission and Philosophy

The mission of Wee Pals Child Care Center is to provide high-quality child care focusing on child development through a stimulating environment, age-appropriate activities, and opportunities for children to learn about themselves, others, God, and the world around them[1][3].

The organization's philosophy is grounded in the belief that children learn continuously by interacting with their environment. Learning is fostered naturally within a nurturing and engaging setting tailored to individual developmental levels and needs. Wee Pals embraces inclusivity and does not discriminate based on race, ethnicity, sex, gender identity, age, religion, or physical or cognitive abilities[2].

Programs

Wee Pals serves approximately 100 families with programs divided by age groups:

• Infants
• Toddlers
• Preschool
• School Age

These programs incorporate preschool education into daily schedules, facilitating kindergarten readiness. Public school educators have recognized that children graduating from Wee Pals' preschool are well prepared for elementary education[1][2].

Community Engagement

Committed to strengthening children and families, Wee Pals collaborates with local organizations to support early childhood initiatives within the community[2].

Financial and Operational Overview

As of the latest available data, Wee Pals reported revenues of approximately $852,000 and expenses around $717,000, maintaining a positive net income and net assets exceeding $600,000. The center operates under active licensing and continues to serve the Owatonna, Minnesota area[4][5].

This comprehensive approach has positioned Wee Pals Child Care Center Inc as a cornerstone for early childhood education and care in Steele County for over five decades.