In 2002, CEDARS broke ground on North 27th Street in Lincoln, Nebraska for the Northbridge Community Center. The new construction was part of a city revitalization project that would help to bring vital resources to an underserved community.

One of the resources the neighborhood lacked was quality childcare. Part of the plans for the Northbridge Community Center included space for CEDARS to operate an Early Childhood Development Center. CEDARS knew that bringing quality early childhood care into the neighborhood was a critical component of our work to help kids in crisis and build strong families. Giving families access to such care brings stability and safety into young lives and gives the children a solid foundation for their futures.

In 2004, the CEDARS Northbridge Early Childhood Development Center opened. Over the years, enrollment in the nationally accredited program has grown. Thanks to many generous donors, many families are able to attend through scholarships. In 2017, a new Nature Explore Outdoor Classroom was added to enhance the children’s development.