Whatcom Center for Early Learning Launches Bold New Five-Year Strategic Plan Rooted in Community Partnership
Bellingham, WASH – Whatcom Center for Early Learning (WCEL) is proud to announce the launch of its new 2025–2030 Strategic Plan, a bold and community-driven roadmap that will guide the organization’s work over the next five years. This plan reflects WCEL’s deep belief that those closest to the work—families, staff and community partners—hold the greatest insight into the challenges and opportunities ahead.
The strategic planning process began in early 2024 in partnership with Kindred Consulting. Through a series of focus groups, surveys and collaborative data reviews, WCEL engaged every staff team, board member and the leadership group to ensure the plan was grounded in lived experience and shared vision. The result is a strategic plan that centers on three core goals:
Deepening Community Relationships
Bolstering Organizational Infrastructure
Optimizing Internal Systems for Greater Impact
“This plan is more than a document—it’s a reflection of our values and our community,” said Sierra James, Executive Director of WCEL. “We are grateful to the families, staff, and partners who helped shape this vision. Together, we are building a future where every child, regardless of ability, has the opportunity to thrive.”
Launching the 2025-2030 strategic plan is significant in demonstrating WCEL’s long-term and sustainability planning, the foundation of which was built during the past strategic plan cycle. WCEL’s previous strategic plan spanned three years from 2022-2025, with goals focused on strengthening infrastructure and expanding services to meet the growing demand for early support services—particularly among underserved and underrepresented populations.
Implementation of the 2025–2030 plan is already underway, with staff teams developing detailed work plans and preparing to launch new initiatives aligned with the strategic goals.
