Building Blocks to hold open house this week

LAUREL — Building Blocks Early Childhood & Family Development Center will mark its first year of service with a one-year anniversary open house later this month, while also sharing an update on fundraising efforts that support its work with local children and families.

The public event is set for Friday,Jan. 30, from 5 to 6:30 p.m. at the Building Blocks facility, 308 Lonsdale St. Community members are invited to tour the center, meet staff, enjoy refreshments and learn more about the center’s programs and mission. Door prizes and light refreshments will be available.

The open house also serves as a thank-you to the families, donors, volunteers and community partners who have supported Building Blocks during its first year.

Since opening, the center has focused on providing a safe, nurturing and developmentally supportive environment for children, while also serving as a resource for families throughout the community.

Organizational leaders said the first year has brought strong progress toward long-term sustainability goals.

To date, Building Blocks has raised $581,000 through ongoing fundraising efforts to support operations, programming and future growth. Fundraising will continue through 2026 as the organization works tofully fund its long-term vision for early childhood and family development services.

Before seeking broader community support, the organization secured $1,050,000 in grant funding, laying a financial foundation for the center’s launch and early operations.

“Every dollar raised represents someone who believes in the importance of investing in children and families,” said Megan Pippitt, board president of Building Blocks. “We’re incredibly grateful for the generosity we’ve seen so far, and we want the community to know that this work is ongoing. We welcome individuals, families and businesses to be part of Building Blocks’ future.”

The anniversary celebration will give attendees a chance to reflect on what has been accomplished in the first year and to learn about future plans for the center.

Community members of all ages are encouraged to attend and celebrate the milestone while exploring ways to support the continued success of Building Blocks.