A message from Natalie Standridge, Founder & CEO
Would you agree that 2022 is a special year? Reuniting with family, with travel, and settling into better versions of ourselves. And for Casa, a year to celebrate our 20TH ANNIVERSARY! You may have already noticed our anniversary logo (above) that we’ve been highlighting at various events throughout this year. The rocket ship signifies that we are only just beginning to launch our innovative and fabulous mission out to the world.
I started Casa back in 2002 when I could not find childcare for my daughter that met my long list of requirements. I created Casa out of my home in South Minneapolis, serving the children of my community with homemade meals prepared from scratch in my small kitchen. I laundered cloth diapers as I saw the benefits of reducing my carbon footprint. I also employed a small number of Spanish-speaking teachers to assist me in carrying out my vision of bringing bilingualism to the children in my care. It wasn’t long before the demand for my program inspired me to open a center, outside of my home.
Fast forward 20 years of growth, risk, innovation, determination, turmoil, and everything in between. Every experience and challenge along the way has made Casa what it is today. And what started as a vision to impact the world for children has turned into an absolute dream. I still can’t believe that I get to call this a job. Because it doesn’t feel like work to me, it feels like love. It is the love between a teacher and a child, between a teacher and a parent, between the members of my leadership team, who have stuck together through the toughest years to be in business.
Since 2002, we have opened six *soon to be seven* Casa locations, serving the communities of the Twin Cities and Shorewood, WI. To carry out my vision and dream, I have pivoted to franchising. The franchise business model is such a beautiful way to grow – sharing the opportunity to own a company and impact a community with entrepreneurial spirits just like me. If you or anyone you know is interested in learning more about the Franchise Opportunity, our Franchise Development team would love to speak with you! Over the past couple of years, some people have been questioning their careers, and 2022 is bringing the thought that maybe there is something more meaningful out there for them. If this is you, please check out the Franchise Opportunity on our website and fill out the inquiry form and we will reach out. We are also offering a $5,000 Referral Bonus when you refer a friend to Casa Franchising and they sign the Franchise Agreement!
But I digress. Although I am so excited to share the franchise opportunity with you, that is not what this letter is about. This letter is primarily to say thank you to my staff and families for being a part of the Casa community because, without you, we would not exist. Working parents are my inspiration, young children are my joy, and loving teachers are my admiration all day, every day.
Happy 20th Anniversary, Casa Familia! I am so lucky to have you.
De todo corazón,
Natalie Standridge, Founder & CEO