Our Story

Discover our origins, the passion that drives us, and our ongoing journey.

This newspaper clipping shows a ribbon-cutting event for the Caledon Parent-Child Centre’s expansion at the Albion-Bolton Community Centre. Present are director Cynthia Warren, Caledon Mayor Emil Kolb, Carolynne Wedgbury from the Peel Board of Education, Garth Turner M.P., and Leanne Flood, chair of the Parent-Child Centre. Children are seen in the foreground, marking this milestone for the community.

BrightStart Caledon Family Centre is a safe space to nourish the hearts and minds of our community’s children and families.

Our journey began in response to a callfrom our community—a call to unite around the needs of our youngest and most vulnerable, to protect and strengthen the family unit.

BrightStart emerged as a cherished and trusted resource. Today, we have become a beacon of security and inclusion: a sanctuary where children, parents and caregivers find support and empowerment in their role, belonging in their community, and a starting point towards a brighter future.

Imagine a world where families come together with purpose through enriching programs and services designed for their holistic well-being. Our motivation lies here—providing a bright start to build a healthy and strong family foundation, cultivating outcomes that echo in the lives of children and positively ripple throughout an entire community.

For decades, we’ve been the cornerstone of support, touching the lives of thousands. We’ve evolved in response to the unique needs of Caledon, being agile to bridge gaps and channel resources where they make the most impact. These milestones form the fabric of our legacy—a testament to our dedication and commitment to helping families flourish.

Our pledge is unwavering—to nurture the very essence of childhood, to support the powerful role of parents and caregivers and to nourish families with a sense of community. With the voices of families leading the way, we remain committed in our efforts towards a brighter future for Caledon and beyond.

BrightStart Caledon Family Centre, a place where the future of Caledon can thrive and flourish

BrightStart Caledon History

Since 1987, we have supported tens of thousands of children, parents and caregivers, offering access to resources, referrals and early learning programs and workshops. We have grown with our community, increasing our services and supports to meet the needs of the families we serve. In 2024, after a comprehensive rebranding exercise, Caledon Parent-Child Centre became BrightStart Caledon Family Centre. New name, new look but the same great organization serving Caledon children and families.

For a closer look at our story and key milestones in our journey through the years, click here.

As we move into our bright future, we proudly rebrand as BrightStart Caledon, continuing our legacy of offering a successful blend of all-age and developmentally specific programs, including those addressing complex needs or barriers. Families can choose from a suite of 20+ unique adult/child early learning programs that best meet their needs and preferences. Join us on this exciting new chapter as BrightStart, where every beginning is bright!

What Parents Say

In last 2.5 years, I have seen BrightStart Caledon Family Centre staff put their heart and soul into their work, they truly care about children and their parents and their well being.

- BrightStart Caledon Parent

Over the past 8 years, my 3 girls have had the privilege of attending the Centre for educational programs and drop-in play. In 2012, I became a volunteer to give back to this instrumental organization.

- BrightStart Caledon Parent, Volunteer Board Member

The Centre has helped us navigate life experiences we never expected and couldn't be prepared for.

- A “Let’s Get Together” Parent

The Centre places great emphasis on being part of the community. This is a lifelong skill which will help us all flourish.

- BrightStart Caledon Mom

It’s good to have a place to connect with other moms.

- BrightStart Caledon Mom

BrightStart Caledon has been a staple in our lives since we had our first daughter-and now we have two! This change of scenery is beneficial on so many levels: New toys, a chance to allow our children to meet others, engage in song and stories, and a chance to connect with other parents.

- BrightStart Caledon Parent