Founded in 1979, the Child Educational Center is a nationally accredited educational organization that serves over 650 students (from preschool through 7th grade) daily from seven sites in Pasadena and La Cañada. Its progressive philosophy is founded on science-backed methods of nature- and play-based learning.
Last fall, Co-Executive Director Allegra Inganni reached out to Jericho Road Pasadena for help in promoting the Grand Reopening of its Preschool at Caltech in Pasadena after months of extensive remodeling. The site, which offers both preschool and school-age care, had been looking to expand their reach within the community but was having trouble tapping into the right market.
JRP responded by recruiting Claire Florentin, Principal of CF Consulting Services, a firm known for its expertise in coaching nonprofits on market research, brand and advertising strategy and campaign development.
Florentin’s sessions with Inganni focused on ways to build brand awareness at their Pasadena site through a variety of methods. Florentin explored advertising options with their team to better communicate the CEC’s programs to a broader and more responsive audience. Florentin’s wealth of experience was very helpful to the CEC team as it gave them new avenues to try while confirming the resources they were already using.
Florentin also urged the CEC team to reimagine its traditional fall open house at their Pasadena site. With this idea in mind, the team brainstormed to transform the open house into a Grand Reopening of their Preschool at Caltech. Rather than hosting a registrant-only open house, Florentin suggested opening the event up to the community to attract new families. The CEC team responded by designing a vibrant fall celebration in their beautifully remodeled “outdoor classroom.” This wonderful space provided an excellent backdrop for a joyful event that consisted of complimentary treats and playful activities such as face painting, bubbles and live music.
Unveiling the newly revitalized Outdoor Classrooms at both its Preschool and School-Age sites allowed families to experience the CEC’s unique educational environment while enjoying a delightful event in their community.
“The reopening was a success, with the short-term benefit being a higher-than-expected turnout,” says Florentin. “Long term, the event and its local marketing will help the CEC build brand awareness in Pasadena.”
Going forward, Florentin encouraged the team to publicize its Pasadena events among its current La Cañada families, since many have at least one parent working east of La Cañada. “The waitlists for La Cañada preschools are long, and there are many families who’d be interested in the Pasadena alternative,” she says.
Florentin enjoyed the experience. “It was great to work with an organization I know and like, and help them see how they can get more out of what they’re already doing with some reframing.”
Inganni says, “Claire was exactly who we needed. So smart, kind, professional and knowledgeable about our program. The event was very successful and her advice was extremely helpful.”
Thanks to volunteer Linda Taubenreuther for writing JRP social media posts!