Spotlight on Here We Grow Preschool & Childcare Center Living Hope: A Ministry Growing Hearts, Minds, and Spirits
We are super excited to shine our February Spotlight on Here We Grow Preschool & Childcare Center Living Hope, a Christ-centered early childhood ministry serving families in Saukville, WI! As a ministry of Living Hope Lutheran Church, Here We Grow provides a joyful, safe, and nurturing environment where children grow socially, emotionally, academically, and spiritually.
Their mission is “to help children and families grow through the enrichment of the mind, body, and spirit in a Christ-centered, happy, loving, and safe environment; and to provide a program that encourages social interaction and academic achievement.”
Co-Directors Beki Tetzlaff and Dawn Zirtzlaff have faithfully led the ministry since its opening in 2001. What began in the church fellowship hall and nursery quickly expanded, and in 2006, a dedicated educational wing with six classrooms and office space was added to support the growing needs of children and families.
As an active ministry of the church, Here We Grow partners in events throughout the year, including Trunk or Treat, Christmas programs, Family Spring Fling, Backpack Blessing, Vacation Bible School, and Lutheran Schools Week. Over the past 24 years, the center has been “truly blessed to touch the lives of countless families in our community,” and they look forward to celebrating their 25th anniversary next year.
Celebrating Growth and Community Support
This past year brought a meaningful improvement made possible through collaboration, volunteer dedication, and strong church support. Recognizing the need for accessible storage and improved organization, the congregation and volunteers worked together to construct a new on-site garage for equipment and supplies.
“This year, through an incredible partnership with Living Hope Church and the generosity of many hardworking volunteers, we were able to build a new on-site garage for additional equipment storage.”
Previously, equipment had to be transported back and forth from an off-site rental facility, requiring extra time, coordination, and expense. The new garage allows staff to store materials conveniently on campus, improving efficiency and ensuring that resources are readily available for daily use and special events.
“Not only is it a great convenience, but it’s also a wise use of our resources and a testament to the support of our church family.”
This project truly reflects the strong partnership between the preschool and congregation and demonstrates the shared commitment to stewarding resources wisely while supporting the ministry’s continued growth.
Growing Through Partnership with ELEA
Here We Grow values its connection to the ELEA and the ways this partnership strengthens both ministry and professional practice. Through shared resources, celebrations, and professional connections, ELEA helps the school remain rooted in Lutheran identity while continuing to grow in excellence.
One of the most anticipated events each year is Lutheran Schools Week. We always hope that the resources and themes provided help inspire creative programming and meaningful opportunities for celebration and service.
“The themes and resources provided by the ELEA/ELCA give us some great ideas to plan and carry out a week’s worth of activities… including staff appreciation and community service collections.”
Service projects during this week support local organizations such as the community food pantry, Advocates of Ozaukee, and Bob’s Under the Bridge, helping children and families practice compassion and generosity while learning the importance of serving others.
Beyond annual celebrations, ELEA provides ongoing professional support and connection.
“The ELEA’s online support network and Discussions in the Daily Digest help us stay connected as we navigate relevant issues and challenges in the world of Early Childhood Education.”
Looking Ahead: Celebrating 25 Years of Ministry
As Here We Grow approaches its 25th anniversary, the coming year offers opportunities to refresh and enhance key spaces. Fundraisers may support new playground equipment and updated flooring in the church fellowship hall, a space used for congregational gatherings, rainy-day play, and summer camp.
“We look forward to celebrating this milestone with our families, church, and community, as we give thanks for 25 years of God’s blessings and look ahead with joy to the future.”
The school anticipates continued partnership with ELEA through Lutheran identity resources, webinars, and the new message board.
Learning in God’s Great Outdoors
One of Here We Grow’s most beloved features is its outdoor learning environment. Children enjoy an outdoor classroom, mud kitchen, riding toy area, and three age-specific playgrounds that encourage creativity, activity, and problem-solving.
“Our outdoor classroom, mud kitchen, and riding toy area, along with 3 separate playgrounds for different age groups, really encourage a love of nature while helping children stay active, be creative and build problem-solving skills. Every day is an adventure in God’s great outdoors!”
Here We Grow Preschool & Childcare Center continues to shine as a vibrant ministry where faith, learning, and community come together. We celebrate their impact and look forward with joy as they enter their 25th year of serving children and families!
Learn More About Here We Grow
Website: https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/hwg-welcome
Facebook: http://facebook.com/livinghopelutheran
Here We Grow YouTube Video – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5cNJK_Fzeo4
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