Tiger Giving Day project supports childhood education at the Harris Early Learning Center

Elmer and Glenda Harris had a vision.

They wanted to leverage the power of public/private partnerships to bolster revitalization efforts in downtown Birmingham and address human needs in key areas, including early education.

Today, the Elmer and Glenda Harris Early Learning Center, part of the Auburn University College of Human Sciences, is a thriving and well respected leader in early childhood development. The center has played a vital role for the past 30 years, serving as a nurturing space for children and a learning laboratory for future educators.

Since opening its doors in 1995, the center has provided care for approximately 200 children each year. It’s the second largest early childhood learning center in the state to be accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children. With a commitment to developmentally appropriate practice and research-based learning, it has become a model for early education across the state.

“The Harris Early Learning Center is more than a place for early education,” said Mariah K. Weber, executive director of the center. “It’s a hub for research, professional development and hands-on training for students from Auburn University, the University of Alabama at Birmingham, Jefferson State Community College, and other institutions.”

As the center celebrates its milestone anniversary, leaders are looking to the Auburn Family to help them ensure the Harris Early Learning Center will continue as a vital resource for the next 30 years. On Sept. 10, they hope to raise philanthropic support for critical updates to playground areas, classrooms and main kitchen. 

“These essential upgrades will help us continue to provide outstanding care and education while preparing the next generation of early childhood professionals,” Weber said. 

In a generous show of support, the Alabama Power Foundation will match every gift dollar-for-dollar, doubling the impact of each contribution. Elmer Harris, who had a distinguished 44-year career at Alabama Power, established the foundation in 1989 during his tenure as the company’s president and CEO. The center was renamed in 2002 to honor the Harrises.

“The matching gift from the Alabama Power Foundation makes an incredible opportunity for the Auburn Family to double its support of the Harris Early Learning Center,” said Michelle McBride, senior director of development in the College of Human Sciences. “Your support will help ensure the center’s legacy of excellence and innovation for future generations of children and educators.”