Lighting the Way for Arizona families and caregivers since 1976.
Candelen is a nonprofit organization rooted in early childhood expertise and care. Since 1976, we’ve partnered with the adults who shape a child’s world – parents, educators, and caregivers—to help every child thrive. These adults inspire curiosity, build confidence, and help little ones discover the world around them.
Through our educational programs, supportive services, and practical tools, we walk alongside adults as they raise, teach, and care for children – helping them feel confident and equipped as they navigate the critical stages of early childhood. When adults feel supported, the children in their care have the brightest possible beginning.
Together, we help children shine.
Our mission
Candelen unites with parents, caregivers, and educators, providing support, connection, and learning opportunities as they shape children’s lives.
Our vision
A world where all children and communities thrive.
Our Values
At Candelen, our values are the heartbeat of our work. They shape how we show up for our communities, how we honor those we are entrusted to serve, and how we care for and empower one another as a team. Our values shape our leadership, steady our voices, and anchor our actions—keeping us rooted in purpose, aligned in vision, and united in our work.
Passion
We are deeply committed to impacting children’s experiences. This unites us, drives our purpose, and shapes how we engage with each other.
Partnership
We work hand-in-hand, engaging in open conversation to continually learn, grow, and ensure we are responsive to the needs of communities.
Kindness
We value each other and those we serve; we acknowledge everyone’s unique experience and meet people where they are.
From birth to five years of age, children undergo critical moments of growth.
Their brains are developing, their personalities are forming, and they are learning how to interact with the world. How children learn affects their social, emotional, and physical well-being. But making sure children grow in nurturing environments goes beyond the children themselves; it starts with supporting the adults in their lives as they are the ones who support in shaping a child’s life. We’ve all heard that it takes a village – and that is not an understatement. We must ensure adults have a support system so they can navigate those early years and help children thrive.
Learn more about our programs!
I am an
EXPECTING PARENT
I am a
FAMILY, FRIEND OR NEIGHBOR (FFN) CAREGIVER
I am interested in
BECOMING A LICENSED CHILD CARE PROVIDER
