Huffman Family Foundation and Franchisees Unite to Support Children
Richard Huffman, founder and CEO of Celebree School, takes pride in the culture of care woven throughout the Huffman Family Brands and its nonprofit arm, the Huffman Family Foundation. As part of the culture, the foundation and Huffman Family Brands — which encompasses the Caliday School Age Programs and Celebree Enterprise Inc. plus its flagship entity, Celebree School — raised $303,000 for charities in 2024 and aim to exceed that amount this year.
“Celebree maintains its culture through comprehensive onboarding, consistent training, strong communication and value-driven leadership. Systems and support are in place to ensure each school embodies the brand’s caring, community-focused identity. It’s a brand that promises to grow people BIG and small,” says the CEO, referring to franchisees and to the children they serve (6 weeks through 12 years of age).
“Franchisees are encouraged and supported in engaging with their communities through service projects, charitable partnerships, local events and school-based fundraisers,” Huffman says. That generosity helps franchisees and their communities, he points out. “It strengthens their school’s local presence and deepens community trust.”
One high-profile endeavor is Celebree’s partnership with Ronald McDonald House Charities, and it raised nearly $5,000 for their Red Shoe Shuffle in April, he says. “Franchisees are encouraged to support their local RonaldMcDonald House as well as their local children’s hospital. The School Family Committee [similar to a PTA] often drives these efforts,” Huffman says, getting the entire school community behind the fund drive.
Community Driven
Celebree Schools also participate in local food drives, fundraisers and partnerships with nonprofit organizations. “They may lead or support charitable efforts that address community needs, especially those affecting children and families, and the Celebree franchise offers resources, training and marketing support to franchises’ local efforts,” Huffman says.
Civic responsibility goes hand in hand with the franchise’s outreach and services. “The school shave a community-first mindset and are deeply rooted in the communities they serve,” he says. “All of the schools build meaningful relationships with families, participate in local events and initiatives, and act as a trusted resource for early childhood education. Our schools make a positive impact on children and their families every day.”
Baltimore-based Celebree is devoted to fostering family engagement as part of its early childhood education programs which emphasize social, emotional and academic growth tailored to each child’s unique needs. Founded in 1994 and franchising since 2019, the brand has 60 locations operating across several states. Nearly 20 schools were slated to open in 2025, with four already opening their doors earlier this year, marking strong momentum in the expansion effort.
As Celebree expands its U.S. footprint, the first qualification for franchisees is a passion for early childhood education, Huffman says. “They also should be community-oriented, have business skills, and be committed to nurturing and growing a values-based enterprise. They should align with the mission and be driven to make a positive impact. Most of our franchise owners don’t have early childhood education experience, and that’s okay. We provide the tools, processes and procedures of our proven model. Whether it’s community outreach, charity work or family engagement, franchisees have the tools and encouragement to lead with purpose.”
All franchisees receive extensive pre-opening training and ongoing operational support. “This includes guidance on curriculum, leadership development, team building and customer service, all with a focus on upholding the Celebree culture and mission,” Huffman says.
“Every franchisee benefits from strong corporate support and a purpose-driven business model with high growth potential. They can make a difference in their communities while building a successful business. It’s really more than a business. It’s a calling to lead with heart, make a lasting impact and leave a legacy for their families.”
Learn more about the Celebree School franchise.
