History

In December 1907, twenty women among the “friendly visitors” of the Associated Charities in McLean County were imbued with the desire to do something worthwhile for mothers who worked away from home during the day in the Bloomington-Normal area.

These women banded together in an effort to provide a suitable day nursery where children under school age could receive quality care. This day nursery also made it possible for older children to attend school regularly and not be kept at home to care for their younger siblings.

Each one of these women pledged to secure ten memberships at one dollar per year for the organization which would come to be known as the Day Nursery Association. In addition, two prominent businessmen pledged to provide the rent for a small house for one year.

On December 19, 1907, a public meeting was called at which Mrs. Adlai E. Stevenson presided. More than 100 women came forward and enrolled as charter members. A permanent organization was established with the election of officers, a board of directors, and the house and membership committees.

In January 1908, the Day Nursery Association opened its doors for the first time at 1210 West Mulberry Street, Bloomington.

Current

Now known as Milestones Early Learning & Preschool Center, and now located at 315 Stillwell Street, Bloomington, we are continuing to build on our 100 years of the finest care and education for young children and service to their working parents. We are accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children since 1999.

In 2002, Milestones hired its current Executive Director, Dana David, who continues to lead the center on a daily basis, in partnership with the Milestones Board and its current president, Deborah Halperin, who has served since 2006. In 2004, our board divided into a governance body and a service auxiliary called Friends of the Center.

We would love to have your child and your family join us in our century-old circle of quality care and education!