A groundbreaking ceremony for a new facility for a non-profit organization in Jefferson was held Friday morning.

The Greene County Early Learning Center will be moving from its current facility on Madison Street to an adjacent property at 306 South Vine Street. Several individuals spoke, including Iowa Workforce Development Director Beth Townsend. GCELC received an almost $500,000 grant from the state through the Childcare Challenge Grant. Townsend talked about the impressive attitude that Jefferson has shown as it continues to be progressive.

“Has long been a flagship community in Iowa in terms of what a community that is committed to working together to resolve issues. To make sure that the community continues to grow. That you address any issues that arise, and certainly childcare is a workforce issue.”

Among the other speakers was GCELC Director Cherie Cerveny. She talked about the ways in which their organization serves youth since 2005.

“Over the years, we have served families from all areas of Greene County and families that have lived in all of the surrounding counties, more than 650 children have passed through our doors. Choosing childcare is one of the most critical decisions for working parents. We believe that finding quality child care should not be a struggle for families.”

The new $2.1 million facility will increase the early learning center’s capacity to 150 children in the 9,484-square foot building that will be constructed by Harold Pike of Ames.