A Joyful Kickoff to the Summer Season: Eleanor Whitmore Early Childhood Center’s Summer Benefit

Eleanor Whitmore Early Childhood Center is kicking off the summer season with their annual summer benefit, a long-running and highly anticipated community event. It will take place Saturday, June 28^th from 5:30 – 8:00 p.m. at Mulford Farm, 10 James Lane, East Hampton. Visit the event page for more information at this link.

This year’s theme for the fundraiser is “Tiny Feet, Big Futures.” It highlights the impact of early childhood experiences on long-term development. With ongoing support from the community, the Eleanor Whitmore Early Childhood Center continues to expand its programs in pursuit of its mission: delivering high-quality early education and essential support to working families across our socially and economically diverse community.

The Center has been the only licensed, nonprofit childcare provider on Eastern Long Island since it was first founded in 1969. Fundraising events like the annual Summer Benefit are so important for the Center to continue to offer affordable childcare with their tuition rates remaining among the lowest in Suffolk County.

Executive Director of the Eleanor Whitmore Early Childhood Center Tim Frazier spoke about the upcoming Summer Benefit. He said, “This is a truly special evening of celebration and gratitude. It’s inspiring to see so many supporters come together to connect over food, music, lively conversation, and a shared belief in the critical importance of early childhood education and affordable childcare.”

The fundraiser is an evening energized with community, music, cocktails, and gratitude. Live music from Pete & the Stray Dogs will be featured at the event, as will a silent auction with several exciting prizes including one-of-a-kind art like the mural of EWECC by East Hampton artist Abigail Vogel. Guests will be able to purchase and place tiny footprints with their names on the mural to support the Center.

Along with the anticipated auction, hors d’oeuvres and a raw bar, wine and cocktails, and great music, one of the key highlights of the Summer Benefit is awarding the Eleanor Prize. The Center established the Prize in 2024 as a way to keep Eleanor Whitmore’s legacy alive.

Awarded to a business or individual that operates in pursuit of making a positive impact on children and families in our East End community, the recipient of the Eleanor Prize this year is Peter Van Scoyoc, who served three terms as East Hampton Town Supervisor. His family roots in East Hampton date way back to the 1700s, so needless to say he is dedicated to making this community the most connected and the best it can be.

Peter was chosen for the prize because of his leadership and resilience securing Town financial support for the Center, which gives more families the chance for childcare. He says, “I am honored to receive the Eleanor Whitmore prize. Eleanor was so generous in her giving of herself to our community and to the Center which bears her name. Her selfless dedication to bettering our children’s future is a beautiful example of the positive way in which each one of us can improve the lives of those with whom we share this place.”

As Supervisor, Peter has garnered public support, but he has also shown his passion for the Center by taking the time to make visits, read to the children, and participate in their events and mission personally.

Tim Frazier, EWECC Executive Director, said, “Peter’s understanding of our community’s needs, especially what working families are up against day-to-day, completely transformed how people see the Center. We went from being thought of as just ‘that sweet little daycare down the street’ to being recognized as a vital resource for the community.”

Eleanor Whitmore Early Childhood Center invites the community to go out and show their support on Saturday, June 28^th for an evening of fun that makes a real impact. Tickets are $250 or $150 for those under 40. For more information and to purchase tickets, click here.