IDEM's Five Star Enviromental Recognition Program;Bethany Evangelical Lutheran Church Daycare & Purpose of Life Academy

For immediate release: Feb 16, 2011
Posted by: [IDEM]
Contact: Allison Fore
Phone: (317) 232-8500
Email: afore@idem.IN.gov
Bethany Evangelical Lutheran Church Daycare & Purpose of Life Academy earn stars for environmental safety

Bethany Evangelical Lutheran Church Daycare & Purpose of Life Academy both in Indianapolis have joined the Indiana Department of Environmental Management's (IDEM's) Five Star Environmental Recognition Program for Child Care Providers.

We learned about the Five Star program through United Way," said Deborah Rohrman, Bethany Evangelical Daycare director. "We were interested in making our building as safe as possible for the kids and then found out that the improvements they suggested were also going to save us money."

Some of the implemented changes which resulted in cost-savings for Bethany Evangelical included energy efficiency improvements and the institution of a recycling program which resulted in a net savings for their trash hauling.

"This is a wonderful Valentine's gift to the children and families attending Bethany Evangelical Lutheran Church Daycare," said IDEM Commissioner Thomas Easterly. "Children under the age of six are our most vulnerable population. Participants in IDEM's Five Star program deserve recognition for exceeding expectations to minimize children's exposure to harmful contaminants. Any family contemplating their child care options should definitely consider facilities that participate in our Five Star program."

To participate, child care facilities conduct assessments and take steps to minimize children's exposure to pests, second-hand smoke, asbestos, lead, hazardous chemicals, vehicle exhaust and allergens. IDEM assists facilities in implementing environmental plans and conducts site visits before granting membership.

There are currently over 80 child care providers statewide participating in the Five Star program making their facilities safer for 4,000 Hoosier children. Other Marion County Five Star program participants include: ABC Child Care & Preschool (eight locations); PlayDates Education & Training; Puzzle Pieces Child Care, LLC; Dream Weaver Before & After School; Sugar & Spice; Robin's Nest Childcare Center; Small Blessings, Inc.; Kids Express Home Child Care; and, Purpose of Life Academy.

Additional information about the IDEM Five Star Child Care program can be obtained by calling Karen Teliha, Community Environmental Health and Education coordinator, at (800) 988-7901 or by visiting www.idem.IN.gov/4180.htm.

About IDEM
IDEM (www.idem.IN.gov) implements federal and state regulations regarding the environment. Through compliance assistance, incentive programs and educational outreach, the agency encourages and aids businesses and citizens in protecting Hoosiers and our environment.