Early Learning Coalition of Marion County, Inc.

OFFICE CLOSURE - CHRISTMAS HOLIDAY
2024-12-25
Our office will be closed in observance of the Christmas holiday.

ELCMC DIAPER ASSISTANCE - Every Thursday*
2024-12-30 07:00 - 18:00 (America/New_York) | Early Learning Coalition of Marion County, FL, United States
The ELCMC provides diaper assistance every Thursday, 7 a.m. to 6 p.m., at our office.
*Dates are subject to change in observance of holidays or other closures. This week’s distribution will take place on Monday, Dec. 30, 2024 instead of Thursday, Jan. 2, 2025.
Please see the criteria below or visit www.elc-marion.org/parents/success-by-6 for more information.
CRITERIA:
1. Reside in Marion County:
• provide valid FL driver’s license/id, current lease or utility bill from within the past 60 days
2. Have child between the ages of birth to five years old:
• Provide Medicaid card or birth certificate
3. Provide Evidence of financial need:
• Housing instability (PROVIDE referral from certified homeless shelter)
• Foster Placement (PROVIDE Medicaid card or placement letter)
• Receiving school readiness (provide ELC staff verification)
• receiving snap (PROVIDE snap letter)
• Medicaid recipient (PROVIDE Medicaid card)

OFFICE CLOSURE - NEW YEARS EVE
2024-12-31
Per Governor DeSantis, state offices will be closed on Tuesday, December 31.

OFFICE CLOSURE - NEW YEAR'S DAY
2025-01-01
Our office will be closed in observance of New Year’s Day.

COME SEE US! MLK Youth Day
2025-01-18 08:00 - 17:00 | Mary Sue Rich Community Center at Reed Place, 1821 NW 21st Ave., Ocala, FL, 34475, United States
The ELCMC team will be participating in Ocala’s MLK Youth Day. Stop by our booth and check out our many free resources!

OFFICE CLOSURE - MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR. DAY
2025-01-20
Our office will be closed in observance of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day.

Inaugural Truckin' It To Preschool Event
2025-02-01 11:00 - 13:00 | Silver Springs Shores Community Center, 590 Silver Road, Ocala, FL, 34472, United States
The Early Learning Coalition of Marion County will be hosting their inaugural Truckin’ It To Preschool event at the Silver Springs Shores Community Center on Saturday, February 1st, 2025. The event is from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
The Truckin’ It To Preschool event will be an opportunity for families to learn about the many preschool options available in Marion County and to apply for VPK. Attendees will also be able to get up close and personal to their favorite trucks and emergency vehicles.
Preschool providers are invited to participate in this event, highlighting their preschool options for families. Vendor space is free to School Readiness and/or VPK contracted providers, and only $25 for non-contracted providers. If you are interested in becoming a vendor at this event or if you have any questions regarding this event, please email Quality@ELC-Marion.org.

OFFICE CLOSURE - PRESIDENTS' DAY
2025-02-17
Our office will be closed in observance of Presidents’ Day

COME SEE US! Inaugural Children's Charity Classic
2025-02-21 18:00 - 22:00 | HITS Post Time Farm, 13710 US-27, Ocala, FL, 32668, United States
The Children’s Charity Classic is an initiative that focuses on empowering children in our community.
Excitement is building as amazing organizations recently attended a training session to prepare for the Children’s Charity Classic! This inspiring event, set for February 21, 2025, will feature teams of riders paired with local organizations, all working together to make a difference in the lives of children in the community.
The United Way of Marion County is proud to host this incredible event, which will unite the community for a cause that matters. Let’s come together to support these non-profits and create a lasting impact.
Join us in making a difference—together, we can ride toward a brighter future!
This one-of-a-kind event aims to make a significant impact on the lives of local children by supporting organizations that provide assistance in education, financial stability, and health. The proceeds from the charity classic will be distributed among the selected agencies, enabling them to further their invaluable programs and initiatives.
Gates open at 4:30 p.m. Event starts at 6 p.m. There is no assigned seating, so please bring your own blanket or chairs.
**Please NOTE: There will be a $10 FEE (Cash ONLY) for parking on the day of the event, that fee will also be donated to the Children’s Charity Classic**
Get your FREE tickets HERE.

COME SEE US! 11th Anniversary Habitat Ocala Strawberry Festival
2025-03-01 09:00 - 17:00 | McPherson Complex, 601 SE 25th Avenue, Ocala, FL, 34471, United States
Get Ready for a “Berry” Good Time! The 11th Annual Habitat Ocala Strawberry Festival is coming to the McPherson Complex on Saturday, March 1, 2025. The festival begins at 9:00 AM with free admission and runs until 5:00 PM.

Volunteers from the Marion Therapeutic Riding Association (MTRA) will assist with traffic control and parking. Parking is $5 per vehicle, and proceeds will benefit both MTRA and Habitat for Humanity of Marion County.

This year’s festival will feature over 230 unique and exciting vendors, a kid’s zone with a petting zoo, fresh strawberries from Plant City farmers, strawberry-inspired treats, a bigger-than-ever car show with cars, trucks, and motorcycles, a BMX stunt show, and a pie-eating contest.

Many nonprofit organizations will have vendor booths, and there will be several photo booths available throughout the festival. The event offers food for all tastes, fun activities for all ages, and a day of entertainment for festival-goers of all generations.

Habitat for Humanity could not host this event without the help of over 700 dedicated volunteers who generously donate their time, effort, and knowledge. We also want to extend a special thank-you to our wonderful sponsors for helping make this event possible.

All proceeds from the Strawberry Festival will support Habitat for Humanity of Marion County’s mission to build a new home, named the Strawberry House, for a low-income family in need of an affordable mortgage and a safe, secure place to raise their children.

For more information, visit: https://habitatocala.org/strawberry/

COME SEE US: Marion County World's Greatest Baby Shower
2025-03-14 14:00 - 16:00

COME SEE US! Community Celebration
2025-03-29 10:00 - 13:00 | howard academy community center, 306 NW 7th Ave. Bldg. 3, Ocala, Florida, 34475
Join us for a day of unity, community and fun!
Brought to you by the Marion County Hospital District.
Enjoy:

community exhibitors
free health screenings
music
food
giveaways
games
group exercise sessions
first responders expo

The ELCMC will be participating so make sure you stop by and meet our team!

COME SEE US! Marion County Day 2025
2025-03-29 10:00 - 15:00 | McPherson Complex, 601 SE 25th Avenue, Ocala, FL, 34471, United States
The ELCMC will be among participating vendors at this year’s Marion County Day. Visit www.marionfl.org for more information.

OFFICE CLOSURE - GOOD FRIDAY
2025-04-18
Our office will be closed in observance of Good Friday.

2nd Annual Early Childhood Forum
2025-04-29 11:30 - 13:30 | Mary Sue Rich Community Center at Reed Place, 1821 NW 21st Ave., Ocala, FL, 34475, United States
All are welcome to attend this free luncheon event, celebrating the Coalition’s 25th year and highlighting the importance of early childhood education in Marion County.
Hear keynote speaker Derek Clark’s journey, a testament to resilience and redemption. Derek is a survivor of child abuse, abandonment, and emotional turmoil. With the support of compassionate foster parents and a dedicated social worker, Derek defied the odds. Today, he is an international speaker, author of seven books, guest on global television programs, and viral sensation known for his “Rapping Dad” videos.
Click Here to reserve your free ticket today.

OFFICE CLOSURE - MEMORIAL DAY
2025-05-26
Our office will be closed in observance of Memorial Day.

Come See Us! Reading With Rangers
2025-06-06 10:00 - 11:00 | Tuscawilla Park, 800 NE Sanchez Ave, Ocala, FL, 34470, United States
The ELCMC will be among participating vendors at Reading with Rangers on June 6th. Visit https://www.ocalamarion.com/events/reading-with-the-rangers-11/ for more information.

OFFICE CLOSURE
2025-06-13 07:00 - 15:30 | Early Learning Coalition of Marion County, FL, United States
The Coalition will be closed for staff professional development.

Come See Us! Reading with Horses
2025-06-26 14:00 - 15:00 | The Marion Theatre, 50 South Magnolia Ave, Ocala, FL, 34471, United States
The ELCMC will be among participating vendors at Reading with Horses on June 26th. Visit https://www.ocalamarion.com/events/gentle-carousels-reading-with-horses-8/ for more information.

Come Find Us @ Back to School Community Giveback!
2025-07-26 10:00 - 13:00 | Harvey R. Klein Conference Center at College of Central Florida Campus, 3001 SW College Road, Ocala, FL, 34474, United States
The ELCMC will be participating in the Back to School Community Giveback event on July 26th at the College of Central Florida. Visit Back to School Community Giveback – Community Foundation for more information.

Come See Us @ Back to School Community Giveback
2025-07-26 10:00 - 13:00 | Healthy Heart of Florida Health Center, 2553 East Silver Springs Blvd, Ocala, FL, 34470, United States
The ELCMC will be participating in the Back to School Community Giveback event on July 26th at Heart of Florida Health Center.

COME FIND US @ the Ready to Read Zero to Three Expo
2025-08-23 10:00 - 13:00 | Ocala Public Library, 2720 East Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala, FL, 34470, United States
Join us and other community organizations during this fun-filled event for children birth to age three. A focus on health, safety and early learning. This event features exhibits, fun activities, and door prizes.

JOIN US! Marion Oaks Hispanic Heritage Celebration
2025-09-20 11:00 - 15:00 | marion oaks community center, 294 Marion Oaks Lane, Ocala, FL, 34473, United States
Enjoy a free Hispanic heritage themed event with art activities for kids. The Hispanic Heritage Celebration is filled with live music and performances, free activities, local vendors, and food trucks.

JOIN US! Marion County Parks & Recreation 7th Annual Carnival
2025-10-04 17:00 - 21:00 | southeastern livestock pavilion auditorium, 2232 NE Jacksonville Rd., Ocala, FL, 34470, United States

COME SEE US! Boo Bash 2025
2025-10-31 17:30 - 19:30 | E.D. Croskey Recreation Center, 1510 NW 4th Street, Ocala, FL, 34475, United States
The City of Ocala Recreation and Parks is Hosting Their Annual Boo Bash Halloween Event – and we will be there!
The Ocala Recreation and Parks Department will host the annual Boo Bash at the E.D. Croskey Recreation Center, 1510 NW 4th Street, Friday, October 31, 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. This family-friendly Halloween event is free to attend.
Boo Bash will offer games, spooky activities, and plenty of candy! Costumes are encouraged, and all ages are welcome. All children must be accompanied by an adult.
For more information, please visit www.ocalafl.gov/recpark, call the City of Ocala Recreation and Parks Department at 352-368-5517, or follow @OcalaRecPark on Facebook.

COME SEE US! 44th Annual Marion County Chili Cook-Off
2025-11-01 10:00 - 16:00 | Southeastern Livestock Pavilion, 2232 NE Jacksonville Road, Ocala, FL, 34470, United States
Get ready, Ocala, for the 44th Annual Marion County Chili Cook-Off, presented by The Cornerstone School, on Saturday, November 1, from 10 AM – 4 PM at the Southeastern Livestock Pavilion. Teams will get to compete for the coveted title of Chili Grand Champion, and you get to taste the results. Enjoy music, a family zone with inflatables and carnival games, and the 10th Annual Car Show. The Early Learning Coalition will be there sharing resources, handing out free children’s books, and providing activities for children.
For more information, please visit marioncountychilicookoff.com or email chili@thecornerstoneschool.org.

COME SEE US! Light Up Ocala 2025
2025-11-22 15:00 - 20:00 | downtown Ocala, 1 SE Broadway Street, Ocala, FL, United States
This year marks the 40th anniversary of the holiday merry making event! Light Up Ocala will have over 100 vendors including crafts, art and plenty of food options to choose from. Live entertainment will fill the air with festive sounds and an interactive kid’s zone will keep the whole family entertained. You won’t want to miss the Junior Sunshine holiday parade with a special appearance by Santa, and of course the lighting up of downtown Ocala.
The Early Learning Coalition will be setting up. Come see us to receive a free book for children and see what resources we have to offer Marion County. For more information, visit Light Up Ocala | City of Ocala, or contact Brooke Perry at bperry@ocalafl.gov.

COME SEE US! 2025 Light Up Lake Lillian
2025-12-06 14:00 - 19:00 | Lake Lillian, SE Robinson Road, Belleview, FL, 34420, United States
Light Up Lake Lillian will be held on Saturday, December 6, 2025, from 2:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Lake Lillian. This festive, family-friendly celebration will feature holiday lights, a visit from Santa Clause, live entertainment, holiday crafts, and a variety of food trucks serving seasonal treats. Stop by to see the Early Learning Coalition to participate in children’s activities, receive a free children’s book, and learn about the resources we offer.
Visit https://www.belleviewfl.org/ for more information.

MLK Youth Day
2026-01-17 13:00 - 16:00 | Mary Sue Rich Community Center at Reed Place, 1821 NW 21st Ave., Ocala, FL, 34475, United States
COME FIND US! 2026 MLK Youth Day
Get ready to honor the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. in a lively and engaging atmosphere. We have a fantastic lineup of activities planned, including interactive workshops, thought-provoking discussions, and inspiring performances. Connect with like-minded individuals and gain valuable insights about equality, justice, and community engagement. Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to pay tribute to an iconic leader and be a part of something meaningful.

Truckin' It To Preschool Event
2026-01-31 11:00 - 14:00 | marion oaks community center, 294 Marion Oaks Lane, Ocala, FL, 34473, United States
The Early Learning Coalition of Marion County will be hosting their 2nd Annual Truckin’ It To Preschool event at the Marion Oaks Community Center on Saturday, January 31st, 2026. The event is from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
The Truckin’ It To Preschool event will be an opportunity for families to learn about the many preschool options available in Marion County and to apply for VPK. Attendees will also be able to get up close and personal to their favorite trucks and emergency vehicles.
Preschool providers are invited to participate in this event, highlighting their preschool options for families. Vendor space is free to School Readiness and/or VPK contracted providers, and only $25 for non-contracted providers. If you are interested in becoming a vendor at this event or if you have any questions regarding this event, please email Quality@ELC-Marion.org.
