Every month we sit down with one of our amazing ABA members to get to know them a little better! For July, we sat down with Aimee Terravechia from Joyful Footsteps Preschool. We ask each member the same questions, providing an opportunity for our members to highlight the important work that they do in our communities. If you’re an ABA Member and would like to be considered for future Monthly Member Highlights, please reach out to us via email at info@altonbusinessassociation.com
Q. Tell us about your business
A. Joyful Footsteps Preschool is a licensed center that provides a Christian aspect to preschool and extended daycare. For over 15 years our program has strived to provide the highest standards in early childhood education. Our goal is to create an environment full of love and support that inspires each student to develop socially, emotionally, intellectually, physically and spiritually. Our mission and vision are to nurture our children’s unique gifts and talents and to inspire lives of learning, serving others and loving God.
A. Bethany Miller is the Director of Joyful Footsteps Preschool. She has served in children’s ministries for over 25 years. Bethany takes great joy interacting with children of all ages and watching them learn and grow (but her favorite age is the preschool age group). She is a long time resident of the Lakes Region and enjoys volunteering in her church and party planning in her free time.
A. Over 15 years ago the Community Church of Alton saw a need in Alton for a preschool and childcare center. Out of their desire to show God’s love and give to their community they formed Joyful Footsteps Preschool and their afterschool program (Joyful Tracks).
A. It can be hard to get outside of the preschool building and into the community while maintaining the safety and security needed for our children. The Alton Business Association has given us opportunities to connect with our community and has helped us to promote our business more effectively.
Q. Why did you want to open your business in this community?
A. Our sponsoring church, The Community Church of Alton, has been a part of this community for decades. This is where we belong. This is our town, our people, our family!
Q. What business accomplishment are you most proud of?
A. Over the past two years we have been working on two things. First, we have strived to make sure we are a safe and healthy place for our children (even during this pandemic). Second, we have been working on growing our Joyful Footsteps family and becoming more well known in Alton and the surrounding towns. We want everyone to know that we are here and that we love God and love our children.
Q. What does the future hold for you and your business?
A. Our hope is that in the future our school will be packed with both preschoolers and after-school daycare children. Not because we want the business but because we want to provide the security, love and safety that many children struggle to find in other places. We want to show them that we care and that most of all God cares for them!
Q. What is one piece of advice you wish you had as a new business owner?