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Critchlow Adkins Celebrates 55 Years With $100,000 Trivia Event
This year marks a major milestone – Critchlow Adkins Children’s Centers is celebrating 55 years of providing high-quality childcare and early education for Mid-Shore families. Since opening its doors in 1970, Critchlow Adkins has served over 13,000 children across four generations, giving them a strong foundation for success.
Founded as Easton Day Care Center and later renamed to honor its inspiring founders, Happy Critchlow and Janice Adkins, the organization began with just a few classrooms at St. Mark’s United Methodist Church. Today, Critchlow Adkins Children’s Centers has grown to five locations across Talbot County, offering preschool, before- and after-school care, and summer programs for children ages 2 to 12.
Critchlow Adkins, a licensed, accredited program through the Maryland Department of Education, is helping children build the skills they need to start school with confidence and a readiness to learn. Their creative and compassionate educators go beyond the basics, offering enriching, hands-on learning that sparks imagination and encourages problem solving and critical thinking.
Critchlow Adkins believes that family success is just as important as a child’s educational growth. The organization is committed to supporting working families, especially those who struggle to afford quality care. With generous support from donors, foundations, and local businesses, tens of thousands of dollars in tuition assistance is provided each year to families – giving parents the opportunity to work, grow, and build stability while knowing their children are safe and thriving. Approximately 40% of Critchlow Adkins families receive financial assistance annually through a combination of state programs and Critchlow tuition scholarships.
On October 23rd, Critchlow Adkins supporters gathered at the Tred Avon Yacht Club for the organization’s annual Trivia Night event and to celebrate 55 years of impact on the Mid-Shore. At cocktail hour, interactive STEAM activities gave attendees a glimpse into the learning experiences that go on in Critchlow’s classrooms. A silent auction offered one-of-a-kind items and opportunities, just in time for the start of the holiday shopping season. As dinner began, Board Chair Dru Haines and Executive Director Cristy Morrell welcomed guests and offered inspiring words about the history and future of the organization.
After dinner, patrons participated in a record-breaking Fund-A-Need paddle raise. This year, Critchlow Adkins was asking donors for additional support for its tuition assistance program to offset the financial impact on parents from a freeze in the Maryland State Child Care Scholarship Program, as well as funds to expand a new social emotional enrichment program offered in partnership with For All Seasons. After the paddle raise, a rousing game of trivia rounded out a spectacular evening.
At the end of the night, more than $100,000 had been raised, ensuring that Critchlow could support local families through tough financial times, and expand its new enrichment program to all five of its sites.
Executive Director Cristy Morrell reflects, “We are overwhelmed by the generosity of our supporters. Receiving this level of support after 55 years is a true testament to the heart of Critchlow Adkins. From our Board Members to our Site Directors, teachers, volunteers, and donors – everyone shares a deep commitment to the children and families of this community. We believe that when children are given the tools to succeed, the entire community grows stronger.”
Learn more about Critchlow Adkins, enroll your child, or donate at cacckids.org.
