For more than 55 years, the Mount Kisco Child Care Center has been a fixture in the local community. Long before early childhood education became part of the national conversation, a group of local residents saw a problem unfolding in their own community. Families were struggling to find affordable childcare, and too many parents were being forced to choose between going to work and caring for their children. In 1971, they did something about it.
What began in the basement of a church has grown into one of Northern Westchester’s most treasured nonprofit organizations, serving more than 200 children each year and giving working families something every parent deserves: peace of mind.
The mission hasn’t changed much over the last five decades. Every child deserves the chance to learn, grow, and thrive–regardless of a family’s ability to pay.
As childcare costs continue to climb and public funding becomes increasingly uncertain, more families are finding themselves caught in an impossible situation. They earn too much to qualify for assistance but not enough to comfortably afford quality childcare. Others are navigating job loss, illness, unexpected medical bills, or family crises that can turn life upside down overnight.
Executive Director Dawn Meyerski has spent years welcoming parents through the Center’s doors, listening to their stories, and helping them find hope.
“My favorite part about working here is that whenever a family walks through our doors with their story of hardship or life-changing challenges, thanks to the incredible generosity of our donors, I get to say, ‘Don’t worry–we can help you,'” Meyerski says. “It might feel like we’re helping one family, but that help spreads so much further than people realize.”
She’s seen it happen again and again.
A parent keeps a job because they have reliable childcare. A child receives the nurturing early education every child deserves. A family regains its footing after an unexpected crisis. One act of generosity creates opportunities that ripple far beyond the classroom.
Those stories are the heart of Feed Me Fresh: An Edible Evening.
Beyond A Fundraiser
Now in its 22nd year, it’s a celebration of everything that makes this community special–neighbors helping neighbors, local restaurants donating their talents, businesses giving back, and hundreds of people coming together because they believe every child deserves a strong start.
On September 19, guests will gather at Ivanna Farms to enjoy tastings from more than 15 local culinary partners, live music, exciting auction experiences, and inspiring stories that remind everyone why this mission matters. The evening also celebrates MKCCC’s nationally recognized Feed Me Fresh curriculum, which teaches children healthy eating habits through hands-on gardening, cooking, and farm-to-table experiences.
Last year, the event was named Northern Westchester’s Best Nonprofit Fundraiser–an honor that says as much about this generous community as it does about the event itself.
Every year, Feed Me Fresh also shines a light on people whose kindness, leadership, and generosity have helped shape the Center’s future.
The Honorees
This year, MKCCC is proud to honor Paula Backer, whose passion for the Center spans decades. Paula has worn just about every hat imaginable–volunteer, advocate, fundraiser, mentor, and leader. Following the pandemic, she played a pivotal role in rebuilding and strengthening the Board of Directors, creating new opportunities for members to become actively engaged.
The Center will also recognize Joanne Stewart, MBA, Founder and President of Goodworks Advisory Group LLC. Joanne has been a trusted partner and champion for MKCCC for many years, helping secure more than $4 million in grants and philanthropic support. Behind every successful nonprofit is someone who quietly opens doors, makes introductions, and never stops believing in the mission.
This year’s celebration will also include a special Honorable Recognition for the Global Scholars Program at Byram Hills High School. While they may be the youngest honorees of the evening, their impact has been anything but small.
The Global Scholars have embraced MKCCC as a community partner through volunteer service, fundraising, and advocacy for young children and working families. They have invested their time, talent, and creativity into supporting the Center.
“Because of Feed Me Fresh and the generosity of our donors,” Meyerski says, “we’re able to help families through incredibly difficult times. That’s what this evening is really about.”
Every ticket purchased, every sponsorship secured, every paddle raised, and every donation helps a child receive the care, education, and opportunities they deserve. It helps parents remain in the workforce.
Since 1971, that’s exactly what the Mount Kisco Child Care Center has done.
One child. One family. One act of generosity at a time.
For information go to
mkccc.org/feedmefresh
Finding affordable childcare and early education has long been a complex math problem: Parents must navigate limited availability, high costs, and varying standards of care. And this is only one side of the equation. Working parents often are forced to choose between maintaining financial stability and staying home. However, a possible solution to this problem was established in 1971 at Mount Kisco Child Care Center.
