ROCKINGHAM — The Richmond County Chamber of Commerce hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Oct. 7, from 1 to 2 p.m., to celebrate the new location of The Early Start Center for Learning & Development.
Rooted in Compassion. Powered by Progress. United by Purpose.
The Early Start Center for Learning & Development is officially offering all of their services on one campus, at 108 Crow Run in Rockingham. They offer early intervention therapy and education, behavioral health therapy, and K-12 private education to meet the diverse needs of children and their families. This campus allows them to align with their vision to empower children to reach their fullest potential through compassionate, evidence-based education and therapy across all stages of life.
Chamber President and CEO Kristi King congratulated and thanked Early Start for the investment they are making in Richmond County before turning things over to Rockingham Mayor John Hutchinson.
“We always want to have businesses in our buildings and when you have one this size that doesn’t have anyone in it, you think, ‘How are we going to make this work?’ And you all have made it work,” said Mayor Hutchinson. “On behalf of the City of Rockingham, I want to invite you to call on us anytime you need us. We want to be a good partner with our local businesses, and if you have an issue, if you have a question, just pick up the phone and call us.”
Richmond County Commissioner Jeff Smart welcomed Early Start to their new building, adding “We appreciate you stepping up to the plate,” referencing not only a need for more small businesses, but for the need for the service that Early Start Center provides.
Prayer Pastor Michael Leak of Bethlehem Missionary Baptist Church continued things with a word of prayer before turning things over to Rep. Garland Pierce, who praised the economic development in Richmond County, as well as the staff and community involved with Early Start.
“It’s just amazing how God works and the things God can do, because I am amazed at this wonderful staff and all that you are doing here,” Pierce said.
Dr. Amber Watkins, owner and operator, thanked everyone for attending to celebrate this milestone, saying, “This ribbon cutting isn’t just opening a building, it’s a celebration of a journey.”
“As we cut this ribbon today, let it symbolize not only just an opening, but a beginning, a beginning of possibility, inclusion, and hope, for every child we serve. We are rooted in compassion, powered by progress, and united by purpose.”
For more information about the Early Start Center for Learning & Development, contact 910-817-7009.
