On January 1, 2026, Starbright Children’s Development Centre will formally enter its 60th year of providing early intervention programming and therapies.
Starbright has stood as a beacon of hope, compassion, and belief in the potential of every child for decades.
Located in the heart of the Central Okanagan, Starbright has worked alongside families during their child’s most formative years, providing expert care, early intervention, and a community of support for babies, toddlers, and preschoolers with developmental challenges.
Starbright’s longevity is a testament to the dedication of its staff, the vision of its founder, and the support of the local community. The Centre is planning to celebrate its 60th year anniversary in April 2026 with a special gala. Plans are underway to mark this significant milestone which reflects decades of partnership, innovation, and compassion.
“Our dedicated staff are the heart of Starbright. Their commitment to the children and families we serve, even in times of uncertainty, has been nothing short of inspiring,” says Dr. Rhonda Nelson, Starbright’s Executive Director. “They have shown resilience, compassion, and excellence in every moment.”
Starbright’s roots date back to the vision and dedication of the late local pediatrician Dr. Clifford Henderson, who as the first pediatrician in Kelowna created a model of care that was groundbreaking for its time.
His pioneering work was recognized with a Lifetime Achievement Award from the British Columbia Association of Child Development and Intervention (BCACDI), a group which represents childcare development centres across the province.
Carol Meise, Board President of Starbright, reflects on this milestone: “There was no precedent for what Dr. Henderson achieved in creating the Centre almost 60 years ago in the Central Okanagan. He made it happen because he truly believed it had to happen for this community.”
Starbright’s impact extends far beyond its walls. Through close collaboration with provincial partners, local agencies, and community organizations, the Centre works to provide children and families with comprehensive, coordinated support.
The Centre also relies on the generosity of local donors and foundations to maintain and enhance its programs. “Their support fuels our programs, uplifts our team, and brings hope to countless families,” Meise says. “They believe in us and in the potential of every child.”
Over the decades, Starbright has developed a broad suite of services to meet the diverse needs of young children with developmental challenges. These include an infant development program, occupational therapy, speech and language therapy, physical therapy, behavioural analyst support, clinical counselling support, and an inclusive childcare program.
Staff members work hand-in-hand with families so that children receive early interventions that have a lasting positive impact on their growth and development.
Starbright’s model is family centred and emphasizes accessibility, collaboration, and family engagement. Families can access services from birth to school-entry age, with referrals accepted from parents or caregivers, pediatricians, family physicians, public health nurses, or childcare providers.
Anyone can refer a child to Starbright’s services as long as the parents or caregivers are in agreement. Importantly, no diagnosis is required to begin receiving support, reflecting the Centre’s mission to remove barriers for families seeking help.
Starbright’s upcoming 60th anniversary event will honour the long history created by staff, donors, and community partners while highlighting the Centre’s role as an essential resource for families throughout the Central Okanagan.
The milestone also provides an opportunity to reflect on the vision of Dr. Henderson, whose work continues to guide the Centre’s mission today.
“We’re excited to celebrate this milestone with our community,” Meise says. “It will be a time to honour our history, thank those who have supported us, and look forward to the future together.”
As planning continues, the Centre is inviting community members and local businesses to get involved. “This anniversary is not just about celebrating our past,” Meise adds. “It’s about ensuring the next generation of children and families can continue to access the services they need most.”
In the spirit of community generosity, Giving Tuesday on December 2 offers a timely opportunity for individuals and businesses to support Starbright’s ongoing work.
Recognized worldwide as a day of giving, it’s a reminder that even small contributions can have a big impact – especially for local organizations that rely on community support.
“Starbright’s story has always been about people coming together for children,” says Dr. Nelson. “As we approach the holidays and our 60th year, Giving Tuesday is a wonderful moment to reflect on that spirit and show support in whatever way you can.”
To learn more about Starbright and how you can support the Centre, visit www.starbrightokanagan.ca.
Whether through donations, participating in Giving Tuesday, or purchasing tickets in the new year to attend the 60th anniversary gala, your involvement can help build bright futures for children across the Central Okanagan.
If you appreciate what we do, we ask that you consider supporting our local independent news platform.
If you get value from KelownaNow and believe local independent media is important to our community we ask that you please consider subscribing to our daily newsletter.
