The Work Behind the Work

There are moments in this journey where you pause—not because the work is done, but because you can finally see it taking shape. The walls go up. The classrooms begin to feel real. The vision that once lived in conversations, late nights, and constant problem-solving starts to stand on its own.

And in those moments, one thing becomes clear: none of this happens alone.

Fort Firefly exists because people chose to commit to something bigger than themselves. Not just to an idea, but to the long, often unseen process of building something that truly serves families—especially those who serve all of us.

There is a difference between supporting a project and giving your life to it. We have been fortunate to witness the latter.

At the center of that commitment is Early Childhood Solutions—Elizabeth Scudder and Debbie Mays—whose fingerprints are on every inch of this work. Their influence is not just in the systems, the classrooms, or the structure. It is in the soul of what is being built.

Elizabeth and Debbie are more than just ECE advocates and teachers. Their expertise and knowledge transcend opening childcare homes and centers, as they are revitalizing the early education space through their passion and dedication to those who will shape our world.

In education, it’s easy to become “nose blind” to the decisions that need to be made to ensure all kids—and we mean all—are getting what they need. The profession is under-appreciated and overworked, yet leaders like Elizabeth and Debbie continue to inspire those who are here to stay while also encouraging aspiring teachers to come on board.

I am honored to work alongside you both and learn from you.

“Elizabeth and Debbie, there aren’t enough words for what you’ve poured into this. For eight years, we’ve walked through every high and low—two steps forward, three steps back—and you never lost sight of the why. Your experience gave this vision structure, but your heart gave it life. Because of you, we are standing in a moment that will change everything for our service-connected families.” - Jody

Eight years of walking through uncertainty together isn’t something you can replicate or shortcut. It’s built through trust, shared belief, and a willingness to keep moving forward even when progress feels slow. That kind of endurance shapes the foundation of everything that follows.

And it doesn’t go unnoticed.

“The short time I had the opportunity to visit with Elizabeth and Debbie, it was clear their deep-rooted passion, compassion, and unwavering dedication to serving others is something truly special. Thank you both for the warmth, kindness, and genuine care you show so naturally. It is evident that what you do goes far beyond work—it is a calling. You are truly doing God’s work, and the impact you make on the lives around you is deeply meaningful and inspiring." – Jenny

What stands out most is not just what they do, but how they do it. There is a steadiness to their work. A clarity of purpose. A consistent return to what matters most: children, families, and the environments that shape both.

From day one, that clarity has guided Fort Firefly.

“To me, Debbie and Elizabeth represent the heart of childcare. Their influence on Fort Firefly is huge, and while our community will see the results this summer, we’ve felt their impact from day one. I am forever grateful for their leadership and partnership in this venture.” – Laura

The community will soon walk through the doors and see the classrooms, the materials, and the intentional design. They will experience the environment as something complete. But those of us who have been part of the process know what sits behind it—countless decisions, conversations, and moments of care that happened long before.

That is the nature of this work. The most important parts are often the least visible.

“It is truly inspiring to see the dedication that Elizabeth and Debbie bring to their work. Their shared passion for early childhood education is evident in everything they do, creating an environment where the youngest learners can truly thrive. Witnessing their commitment to the growth and well-being of children is a wonderful reminder of the impact that heart-centered teaching can have. They nurture potential with a genuine love for the craft that is beautiful to see.” – Reymark

This is what it looks like when a vision is built the right way. Not rushed. Not forced. But shaped by people who understand that early childhood is not just a service—it is a responsibility.

To everyone who has committed to this work—our partners, our team, and our community—thank you. You have poured into something that will outlast all of us.

And to Elizabeth and Debbie, your impact is already being felt in ways that words will never fully capture. The families we serve, the children who will grow here, and the community that will be shaped by this place will carry your work forward.

That is the legacy of doing this right.

We are deeply, forever grateful.

-Patrick Hellman, Executive Director