1973 Concerns expressed by parents and businesses to the Child Day Care Association (CDCA) about the lack of childcare in the downtown area.

1974 Andrew Newman, Vice President of Edison Stores, Inc., becomes involved and encourages businesses to contribute financial resources to meet this employee need. United Way surveys of workers downtown indicates need for childcare near their work.

1976 Childcare professionals from Webster University and Southern Illinois University are hired as consultants. Needs assessment done to determine support for childcare in the downtown community. It showed the greatest interest among small businesses. A non-profit corporation is formed bringing together businesses, parents and childcare professionals. Dean Michael offers space for childcare in Christ Church Cathedral.

1977 Original financial supporters include Edison, Monsanto, Laclede Gas, Pet, Sverdrup and several banks.

1978 Downtown Day Care is opened in November with 20 children (3-5 years old).

1980 Executive Director, Joan Gerard is hired in August.

1981 Two-year-old & kindergarden programs are added.

1983 Summer camp program for 6-10 year olds is added. Name is changed to Downtown Children’s Center.

1985 First Accreditation is earned.

1986 Infant/Toddler center serving children 6 weeks to 3 years opened in the Lucas Lofts with an $80,000 loan from a consortium of banks.

1987 Preschool moved to Lucas Lofts.

1991 New playground completed in Lucas Park.

1993 DCC opened the Ralston Purina Childcare Center.

1994 Downtown Children’s Center renovated with a loan of $30,000.

1995 National Accreditation achieved.

1999 The Work/Family Connection, Back-up Childcare Program is started.

2000 The Center purchased its space in the Lucas Lofts.

2002 Joan Gerard retires and Ilene Shore is named Executive Director

2003 Earned National Accreditation from the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC).

2004 Received the Cityscape Award for the St. Louis Partnership, for our new awnings and improvements made to the playground.

2006 Ilene Shore resigns and Michael Burns is appointed Executive Director in September.

2007 DCC signs a contract to move into a brand new state of the art facility at 607 N. 22nd. Street, St. Louis, MO 63103.