CARE for Children Announces Initial Plans For Building

Local agency CARE for Children is one step closer to its dream of opening a therapy, health and early learning center for children of all abilities by purchasing a property in Bradford.

The site, located at 723 East Main Street (which formerly housed Sundahl Insurance Company), is one block south of the agency’s current location on Russell Boulevard.

"CARE for Children has had many homes over its 86-year history and the board determined that the time has come to have a community center for children that will address the diverse needs of the local pediatric population,” said Mick Marshall, President, CARE for Children Board of Directors.

The non-profit organization has provided pediatric services in McKean County since 1924 and in the last fiscal year provided school and home based therapy services to over 200 clients; preschool for 44 students; specialized orthopedic and wheelchair clinics for 165 children; safety and injury prevention programs for 1463 children; and disability awareness presentations to 403 children.

"We are hoping to begin work on an 8,000 to 10,000 square foot facility within two years, but it will depend on the level of support from the community and how quickly we can secure the necessary funding," said Joe Yaros, Building Committee Chair.

“CARE has experienced unprecedented growth in the number and scope of services we currently provide,” said Tina Martin, CARE Executive Director. "We have an amazing staff and board in place and have worked hard to strengthen our infrastructure and improve quality service delivery in preparation of a project of this size.”

Pictured, standing with the newly-constructed sign are CARE Board President, Mick Marshall; CARE Executive Director Tina Martin; Rainbow Corner Preschool Director, Kimberly Engstrom; Rainbow Corner students Margaret Graffius and Nicolas DeGolier; CARE Development & Marketing Coordinator Mandi Wilton Davis; CARE Community Relations Coordinator Kim Murphey; CARE Board Secretary, Tom Ball; CARE Board Member, Scott Bayline; and CARE Board Treasurer/Building Committee Chair, Joe Yaros. The sign was sponsored by the McKean County Shrine Club and was constructed by the Bradford High School carpentry class under teacher Scot Oxley. Graffius is the daughter of Mark and Archangela Graffius of Bradford; DeGolier is the son of Todd and Amy DeGolier of Bradford.
Photo courtesy of CARE for Children