Five Years of Fun, Friendship and Family! St Alban’s Baby & Toddler CIC Celebrates Special Milestone.
St Alban’s Baby & Toddler CIC celebrated its fifth birthday with a fantastic community party on Sunday 1 November, bringing together families, supporters and friends, both past and present, to mark five wonderful years of supporting local families.
The organisation’s journey began as a small church toddler group, with a vision of bringing local families together and providing a welcoming space for young children to play and socialise. Three years ago, the group took an exciting step forward and became a Community Interest Company (CIC), allowing it to grow its activities and reach even more families in the local community.
The birthday celebrations were a wonderful opportunity to reflect on just how far the organisation has come. The day was packed with entertainment, performances and activities for children and families to enjoy.
The team was delighted to welcome a fantastic line-up of local talent, including children’s author Inderjit Puaar, creator of Bradley the Bus; musical instrument performances from Elliott and Matthew; an amazing speed Rubik’s Cube performance from Guy; Irish dancing from Maguire O’Shea Academy of Irish Dance; a wonderful performance from St Alban’s Church Choir; and a K-pop dance performance from former attendees Mia, Freya and Marina.
Families also enjoyed meeting the Rainham Police team, with the opportunity to see the police vehicle and meet local officers. A special thank you goes to Sergeant Matt Atkin from the Elm Park Safer Neighbourhood Team for arranging for the Rainham Police team to attend and support the celebrations.
The event was also attended by local councillors Stephanie Nunn and Barry Mugglestone. Councillor Stephanie Nunn has been part of the CIC’s journey, having officially opened the organisation when it became a CIC three years ago. It was particularly lovely to welcome her back, alongside Councillor Barry Mugglestone, to celebrate this special milestone.
Speaking about the celebrations, founder and director Maria White said:
“Yesterday was such an emotional and proud moment. Seeing families, both past and present, come together to celebrate five years meant so much to me.
“I originally started the group five years ago for my daughter, as there weren’t many toddler groups around at the time. It’s amazing to look back at everything we have achieved and how far we have come. We have been able to support so many local families, with over 2,000 children attending our sessions since we first opened!
“I am incredibly proud of what we have built together and so grateful to everyone who has been part of our journey. I am really looking forward to what the future holds!”
The team would like to say a huge thank you to everyone who attended, including families who have supported the group over the years, performers, stallholders and everyone who gave their time and support to make the day such a success.
A special thank you goes to Canon Maurice Gordon and St Alban’s Church for their continued support over the years. The organisation began as a church toddler group, and the church’s support has been an important part of its journey and growth.
St Alban’s would also like to express its heartfelt thanks to all the staff and volunteers, past and present, who have given their time, dedication and enthusiasm to support the organisation. From helping at sessions to organising activities and special events, every contribution has helped make the CIC what it is today. None of this would be possible without them, and they are very much part of the St Alban’s family.
Over the past five years, St Alban’s Baby & Toddler CIC has become much more than a place for children to play. It is a place where friendships are formed, parents and carers find support, families connect and children are given opportunities to learn, explore and thrive.
The team is incredibly proud of what has been achieved and looks forward to continuing to support local families for many more years to come.
Come and join the fun!
St Alban’s Baby & Toddler CIC welcomes new families and is open every weekday morning, offering sessions for families with children under five.
Whether you are looking for somewhere for your little ones to play, make friends or simply meet other parents and carers, everyone is welcome.
To book sessions, visit: https://bookwhen.com/stalbanstoddler
Or email Maria at stalbanstoddler@yahoo.com.
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