One Hope United celebrated the renaming of its Busy Bee Children’s Center in Waukegan on Saturday, October 10, with a ribbon cutting ceremony officially dedicating the center as the Ellen Rudnick and Paul Earle Early Learning Center. The dedication recognizes more than 20 years of generosity and personal involvement from Rudnick and Earle, whose support has strengthened programs and experiences for children and families across the organization.
The ceremony, hosted by Cheryl Dunlap from 98.3 The Life, brought together community leaders and longtime supporters, including Illinois State Senator Adriane Johnson of the 30th District and Josh May of the Waukegan Mayor’s Office.
Since becoming involved with One Hope United in 2005, Rudnick and Earle have supported a range of programs and initiatives, with a particular commitment to early childhood education. Their contributions have helped support classrooms and playgrounds, provide educational materials, and strengthen learning experiences for children. They have also spent time reading with children at the center, demonstrating a commitment that extends beyond financial support.
“Ellen and Paul haven’t simply written checks. They’ve gotten involved,” said Damon Cates, President and CEO of One Hope United. “They’ve always asked what was needed and then found ways to help. That kind of generosity has strengthened this center and touched the lives of children and families throughout One Hope United. We’re so excited to recognize that commitment in a lasting way by naming this center in their honor.”
For Rudnick and Earle, supporting early childhood education reflects their belief in the importance of giving children a strong start and ensuring families have access to safe, reliable childcare.
Today’s children are the hope and the future for our communities. We also know from personal experience how important it is for working parents to have access to reliable, trustworthy childcare facilities where their children will be safe and nurtured.
– Ellen Rudnick
Located in a designated childcare desert, the NAEYC-accredited center serves children from birth through age five, providing early learning opportunities during the most critical years of development. The renaming recognizes Rudnick and Earle’s commitment to ensuring children and families have access to these important resources.
“Quality early childhood education gives children a strong foundation. Reliable, high-quality childcare also gives parents the stability they need to work, provide for their families, and build a more secure future,” said Senator Johnson during the ceremony. “That is why investing in places like Busy Bee is an investment in Lake County.”
The Ellen Rudnick and Paul Earle Early Learning Center continues One Hope United’s commitment to helping children build strong foundations through quality early childhood education and supportive relationships with the adults in their lives.
