Little Light House Celebrates 50 Years Serving Children With Special Birthday Party

The staff at Little Light House says the goal has always been the same, to improve the quality of life for children with special needs, their families, and their communities.

"Noah is four and he has down syndrome and he is absolutely adorable," Pena said. 

Cristen Pena's son Noah has been going to Little Light House since he was one year old. She says he's smart and has a contagious laugh that can fill a room.

He's one of 250 students with special needs at the early learning center, that's dedicated to helping children and families overcome limitations and grow in confidence.

It's a mission that more than 90 teachers, therapists, and nurses have fulfilled for half a century.

"50 years ago, today Marsha Mitchell and Sheryl Pool opened our doors and one Little Lighthouse with five students, five volunteers, and one teacher and since then we have grown," Emery said.

Sara Emery is the developmental coordinator at Little Light House.

"Our main goal for our students is independence in whatever form or fashion that is," Emery said.

Emery says she wants to make sure her students are prepared for whatever comes next in life.

"We have parents that constantly walk in and tell us that when walking through the doors of Little Lighthouse this is the first place they were congratulated on their child, this was the first place that they felt like they hope for their child on things they will achieve," Emery said.

"It's just absolutely amazing, you walk in these doors, and you just know you are where you're supposed to be. He just absolutely loves it," Pena said.

Mayor Bynum marked today's 50th anniversary by declaring today Little Light House Day.

The Executive director at Little Light House, Anne McCoy, said she is thankful for the community's support over the past 50 years and they are looking forward to 50 more.