Grace Lutheran Communities Childcare Receives Huge Donation from Westby Daycare and Learning Center

Posted 6/24/2020

Verna Drake has a passion for children, and upon her retirement, she wanted to see her work in childcare carried on by someone who has the same philosophy on teaching and caring for children. That’s why she is donating the contents of her daycare to Grace Lutheran Communities Childcare Program.

“It fills my heart and soul with abundant joy upon retiring after 29 years of directing a non-profit child care center, that I am able to aid another non-profit holding the same values build their capacity in providing excellent quality care and education for children birth to school-age. It is the right thing to do,” said Drake, owner of Westby Daycare and Learning Center.

Drake owned Westby Daycare and Learning Center near La Crosse for many years, and recently closed it due to her retirement. Her donation to Grace includes a school bus, playground equipment and all the contents of the daycare. 

“It can cost thousands of dollars to create outdoor play areas from scratch, and Verna understood how difficult it can be for nonprofits to find this extra money. This donation will help create a special experience for the children,” said Grace Lutheran Communities Childcare Administrator Nancy Fliehr.

One of the first things kids will use will be the huge, oversized Lego Bricks that are perfect for outdoor play.

“This donation could not have come at a better time. The equipment from Westby Daycare’s playground will be a great addition for our summer camp,” added Fliehr. “Kids need to run free and be imaginative, and this outdoor play area will offer that.” 

Grace Lutheran Communities is filled with gratitude from this donation and is excited to see how the gifts will improve the childcare program.

Grace Lutheran Communities has been helping our friends and neighbors in communities all over the Chippewa Valley since 1960. The non-profit organization specializes in rehabilitation, assisted living, skilled nursing, memory care, child care, independent living, and adult day services.