The annual Saddle Up for ACE Learning Center was a huge success Thursday night at MTSU's Foundation Reception House on West Thompson Lane. That's a result of a combination of things: temps in the upper 70s, great turnout of supporters and a phenomenal location--all coupled to a super cause.
Funds raised at this year’s event will be used to continue expanding services at the ACE Learning Center, which is Rutherford County’s only community- and center-based program serving very young children, including those with special needs. The center was formerly known as Project Help and was renamed last spring to honor its founder, the late MTSU special education professor Ann Campbell.
Guests were treated to live music from Rhythm Kitchen as well as a “step & repeat”, and Studio C's Cynthia Jones captured the charm of the evening for all who attended. “Saddle Up” patrons enjoyed one of the finest silent auctions featuring spa packages, golf excursions, gift baskets and cards, cookware, trips to the Nashville Zoo, a hosted holiday party and more.
Founded in 1983, the nonprofit ACE Learning Center provides inclusive classes for children ages 3 months to kindergarten, where little ones with developmental delays play and learn with those who are developing typically. A “prep” program helps 3-, 4- and 5-year-olds get ready for public school.
The center also provides home-based services for families of children from birth to age 3 who have developmental delays. It’s affiliated with the Tennessee Early Intervention System and provides hands-on learning experiences for MTSU and Motlow State Community College’s Nursing Program students who work with the children and staff.
Grants from the Tennessee Department of Education through Early Intervention Services and the United Way of Rutherford and Cannon Counties partially fund the ACE Learning Center’s work. Dozens of community organizations and businesses also provide the center with much-needed equipment, toys and consumable items every year.
You can learn more about the Ann Campbell Early Learning Center anytime by visiting their website: www.mtsu.edu/acelearningcenter.
