A CAMPUS OF COMPASSION FOR CHILDREN & FAMILIES IN LEWIS COUNTY
What is the United Learning Center?
The United Learning Center (ULC) in Centralia plays a vital role in strengthening the community by creating opportunities for education, connection, and long-term success for children and families. Through the combined skills, resources, and partnerships of its founding organizations, the ULC is designed to support the comprehensive education and development of local youth while helping meet the needs of working families.
The center brings together a high-quality, affordable early learning program, after-school mentorship and summer engagement opportunities through the Boys & Girls Club of Lewis County, and the Discover! Children's Museum, which inspires curiosity and a lifelong love of learning in children of all ages. More than just a facility, the United Learning Center represents a powerful investment in the future of the community—creating a space where children can grow, families can thrive, and community partnerships can drive lasting impact for generations to come.
Why is the United Learning Center vital to our community?
In Lewis County, access to quality early learning opportunities remains a major challenge, with only approximately 25% of children under age five currently able to participate in a quality child care program due in large part to the shortage of licensed child care centers. Across Washington, families continue to struggle to find and afford licensed, high-quality child care, with many paying more annually for child care than the cost of college tuition.
By investing in programs that support children during their most critical developmental years, communities can improve kindergarten readiness, support working parents, strengthen economic stability, and help ensure that every child—regardless of circumstance—has the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive.
Program Partners
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Learn more about the United Learning Center partners!
Project Goals
- To create a comprehensive, collaborative learning hub in Lewis County that supports children and youth from early childhood through adolescence by integrating high-quality early learning, hands-on educational exploration, mentorship, and out-of-school enrichment opportunities under one roof.
- To expand access to high-quality, affordable early learning opportunities for ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) families by providing accessible childcare and educational support services that help children thrive while supporting working parents and caregivers.
- To strengthen kindergarten readiness and long-term academic success by providing children with nurturing early learning experiences, literacy-rich environments, mentorship, and opportunities that support healthy social, emotional, and cognitive development during their most critical years of growth.
- To serve as a catalyst for community and economic growth by creating jobs, supporting workforce participation for local families, and investing in programs that build a stronger, healthier, and more resilient future for children, families, and the broader community.
Make a donation to the United Learning Center and impact families now and in the future!
With your support, local kids will have access to a high-quality, unique learning environment that will build a strong foundation for success in school and in life.
To talk with someone about a larger designated gift to the United Learning Center project, please call (360) 748-8100.