Previous Meeting Highlights

On October 22nd, the Empowering Early Learning Educators (EELE) coalition hosted a vibrant Networking Happy Hour at Chabella Mexican Fusion in Homestead. With delicious food, meaningful conversation, and plenty of laughter, the event brought together childcare center owners, allies, and community partners to build connections and celebrate EELE’s mission of collaboration over competition. This casual, energetic gathering created space for early learning professionals to share ideas, learn from each other, and strengthen the supportive network that defines EELE. Attendees also enjoyed fun raffles and shared feedback that confirmed what we already suspected: these in-person moments of connection are powerful and needed. Thank you to everyone who joined us! If you’re a childcare provider or supporter in South Miami-Dade, we’d love to connect. Become a member or ally (for free!) and stay tuned for more happy hours, workshops, and opportunities to build together. We’re stronger together. Join the movement!

At our September Impact Meeting, early childhood leaders came together to shape a collective vision for the future of childcare in Miami-Dade. We explored powerful workforce solutions like the Miami Dade College Apprenticeship Program and dove into practical strategies for leadership, operations, and advocacy through small-group discussions. Shaleen Fagundo shared EELE’s roadmap for growth, and Marya Mayer of The Women’s Fund offered an advocacy crash course on Chambers of Commerce. We also celebrated Juanita Walker for her founding vision and ongoing leadership, honoring the spark that started it all. The energy was electric, and the message was clear: when early learning leaders unite, we can build something powerful. Don’t miss the next one. We’re just getting started!

EELE’s April Coalition Meeting, hosted in collaboration with The Children’s Movement of Florida, brought early learning leaders together at The Creative Learning Center for a powerful conversation on advocacy, business support, and collective action. Speakers shared practical strategies for building relationships with elected officials, supporting working families, and engaging businesses in the early learning movement. We explored key policy updates, connected with new members, and emphasized the power of peer support. We also introduced ways to amplify our voices, like sharing family stories, completing Florida’s early learning cost model survey, and expanding our network. Special thanks to The Creative Learning Center for hosting, and to EELE founder Juanita Walker, whose vision continues to drive our movement forward. Ready to take action? Join the coalition, bring a friend, and let’s keep building momentum together!