Newbridge Academy, a state-of-the-art childcare facility, has officially opened its doors in the heart of Wheeling, West Virginia. This transformative project aims to address the pressing need for quality childcare in the Ohio Valley region, providing a safe and nurturing environment for over 200 children.
Unlocking the Potential of Wheeling's Youth
A Holistic Approach to Childcare
Newbridge Academy's comprehensive approach to childcare goes beyond the traditional model. The facility is divided into two distinct areas: the NB Cafe, a welcoming gathering space for the community, and the academy itself, a 23,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art childcare center. This innovative design allows Newbridge to cater to the diverse needs of the community, creating a hub for both children and adults.The academy's state-of-the-art facilities are designed to provide a stimulating and enriching environment for the children in its care. With the capacity to accommodate over 200 children, Newbridge Academy aims to be a game-changer in the local childcare landscape. The facility boasts a range of amenities, including a gated outdoor playground, developed in partnership with the City of Wheeling, which offers a safe and engaging space for children to explore and play.
Addressing a Critical Community Need
The decision to establish Newbridge Academy was driven by a deep understanding of the community's needs. As Newbridge Church Lead Pastor Chris Figaretti explains, "The reason we decided to do child care isn't because it's a great moneymaker or anything, but because it is needed in the community." The organization recognized the significant demand for quality childcare in the region, with many families facing waitlists of up to 30 months to secure a spot for their children.By taking proactive steps to open the facility, Newbridge aims to alleviate the financial burden on families and provide a much-needed solution to the childcare crisis. Figaretti emphasizes the importance of this initiative, stating, "When a household loses a source of income from not being able to have child care, it becomes a huge financial burden, and we want to be able to alleviate that stress for parents."
A Collaborative Effort
The transformation of the former Children's Museum of the Upper Ohio Valley building into Newbridge Academy was a collaborative effort between the church and the City of Wheeling. Newbridge Church purchased the property in 2022 and spent the last eight months renovating and restoring the historic structure.The partnership with the city proved invaluable, as Newbridge secured 1,000 from the city's Upper Floor Incentive Plan to construct a state-of-the-art outdoor playground for the children. This playground, featuring a range of engaging elements, not only serves the academy's students but is also open to the public, fostering a sense of community and shared resources.
A Gathering Place for the Community
Newbridge Academy's vision extends beyond just childcare; it also includes the NB Cafe, a welcoming gathering space for the community. Figaretti explains the rationale behind this addition, stating, "We wanted to create a place in the evenings for the youth to gather that's not Sheetz parking lot. There aren't too many places for young people or anybody to hang out for that matter besides bars, so I want a place where people can gather and build community."The cafe, open daily from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. on weekends, aims to provide a vibrant and inclusive space for residents to connect, enjoy quality coffee and beverages, and participate in various events and activities. From acoustic performances to open mic nights and game nights, the NB Cafe is poised to become a hub of community engagement and social interaction.
