Years before El Way Child Care and Learning Center officially opened, the seeds were already planted in the hearts of its founders. In another business owned by founder Dee Decimus Holmes, childcare challenges among employees were a constant concern. She found herself asking how she could be part of a meaningful solution. Meanwhile, co-founder Stephen Holmes had carried a desire to provide quality childcare for his community since his early twenties.
When Stephen and Dee met in 2022, their shared passion for serving families and strengthening their community naturally grew and soon began to take shape.
During their honeymoon in May 2022, the vision became a plan, and the framework for the business was created. Every business needs a name, and this one came with a story. While some assume El Way is a family name, its meaning is rooted in a moment at their home church, Thrive Community Church. During a sermon reflecting on the way, the truth, and the light, the word “Way” resonated deeply. “El,” the Spanish word for “the,” completed the name symbolizing The Way.
In the months that followed, as Dee drove past what is now El Way’s location at 624 N Washington St., Grand Forks, ND, she repeatedly felt God prompting her: This building will be a daycare. At the time, the property wasn’t for sale and was owned and used by the Listen Center, Inc. But the message continued, stronger each time, until one day she heard clearly, “It’s going to be your daycare.”
Trusting the call, Dee reached out to inquire about the property. Initially, there were no plans to sell. But in November 2022, a “For Sale” sign appeared, a sign Stephen and Dee immediately recognized as God’s confirmation. They purchased the building on December 22, 2022.
Renovations began in January 2023 and were completed on May 22, 2023, exactly one year to the day from when the business was conceived during their honeymoon. One month later, in June 2023, the doors opened to welcome their very first kiddos.
Stephen and Dee knew strong leadership would be essential. They found that in Yesenia Bush and Taya Johnson, two fearless leaders who became instrumental in opening El Way and navigating the licensing process.
During their first winter, Stephen, Dee and the leadership team recognized the need for an indoor space where children could run, play, and release creative energy during North Dakota’s harsh temperatures. In November 2024, ground was broken on an expansion that added a second building to the campus, complete with two classrooms, three bathrooms, a staff lounge, additional storage, and a full indoor recreation area. The outdoor space also received a complete upgrade, including a brand-new playground with two designated play zones. Construction wrapped up in March 2025, just in time for school-age children to be added to the center’s license for a new summer program.
The future of El Way Child Care and Learning Center is bright. Stephen and Dee remain committed to continually improving the experience, environment, and opportunities for every child who walks through their doors, today and for years to come.