The Carole Robertson Center For Learning stands as a beacon of hope and progress in Chicago, dedicated to transforming lives through comprehensive education and family support programs. As a leading nonprofit organization, the Center is deeply committed to educating, enriching, and empowering children and families across the city. Its core mission revolves around fostering holistic child and youth development, coupled with robust family engagement initiatives. The overarching vision of the Carole Robertson Center for Learning is to cultivate a just and equitable society, working hand-in-hand with families to pioneer best practices, drive innovation, and maximize positive impact within early childhood and youth development.
Named to honor Carole Robertson, alongside Addie Mae Collins, Cynthia Wesley, and Denise McNair – the four young girls tragically killed in the 1963 bombing of the 16th Street Baptist Church in Birmingham, Alabama – the Center carries a powerful legacy. This horrific event served as a catalyst for the Civil Rights Movement, galvanizing community members and leaders to relentlessly pursue racial justice. The Carole Robertson Center for Learning embodies this spirit of resilience and determination, channeling it into tangible community upliftment.
Today, the Carole Robertson Center for Learning extends its reach to over 2,500 children and families daily. Operating through key program locations in Albany Park, Little Village, and North Lawndale, the Center’s network further branches out through partnerships and satellite programs, touching 27 communities throughout Chicago. This expansive reach ensures that vital services are accessible across diverse neighborhoods. The programs offered are designed to support children at every developmental stage, from infancy (6 weeks old) through adolescence (age 17). These encompass center-based and home-based early childhood development programs for the youngest learners (ages 6 weeks to 5 years), enriching Out-of-School-Time (OST) and summer camp programs for older children and teens (up to age 17), and comprehensive family support services. Crucially, the Carole Robertson Center for Learning also provides essential mental health services, professional development training for educators and caregivers, and a range of social services to bolster family well-being.
The commitment to excellence is paramount at the Carole Robertson Center for Learning. The organization consistently strives to deliver the highest quality programs and services to the children, families, and communities it serves. Recognized as a leader in the field of early childhood education, the Center’s dedication to quality is validated through accreditations from national and state entities. Furthermore, the Carole Robertson Center for Learning is deeply rooted in the communities it serves, actively promoting cultural competence and understanding throughout all its programs and services. Founded by and for the community, the principles of social justice and equity remain at the heart of the organization’s mission and are reflected in every aspect of its work. The Carole Robertson Center for Learning continues to be a vital resource, fostering growth, opportunity, and equity for Chicago’s children and families.
