Photo submitted to the Times Observer Pictured are the founders of the Avant Christian Learning Center, Stacey Clark and Cassandra Galbier. The center will open in the fall, though fundraisers are taking place starting Saturday.

A new nonprofit learning center is preparing to open its doors in Youngsville this fall.

The Avant Christian Learning Center will partner with homeschooling families to provide a Christ-centered community where children can grow in faith, knowledge, and purpose. The center is a Pennsylvania nonprofit serving homeschooling families throughout the region. Designed for students in kindergarten through eighth grades, Avant offers flexible learning options that support home education while providing opportunities for academic enrichment, worship, friendships and hands-on learning.

The vision for Avant Christian Learning Center grew from a shared calling between former educators Stacey Clark and Cassandra Galbier. Though their paths were different, both believed children thrive when learning is rooted in Christ, connected to real life, and supported by a caring community.

For Clark, the dream began years ago after leaving the classroom to raise her family. While the vision was often set aside amid the demands of everyday life, she said God continually brought it back to her heart. What started over a year ago as monthly faith based gatherings for homeschooling families at a local church gradually grew into something larger.

Galbier shared a similar desire to create meaningful learning opportunities for children and families.

“Becoming a mother and growing in my faith with Jesus has deepened my conviction that every child deserves a space filled with faith, inspiring exploration, and a supportive community that nurtures them in the unique way God created them to be,” Galbier said.

Learning at Avant will combine academics with nature studies, living books, creative arts, practical life skills, project-based learning, worship and discipleship to connect learning to everyday life. The program draws inspiration from educational approaches including Charlotte Mason, Montessori, Reggio Emilia and Waldorf-inspired practices while remaining firmly grounded in a Biblical worldview. There are different scheduling options available. For more information visit www.avantclc.com.

Avant Christian Learning Center is a Pennsylvania nonprofit organization currently pursuing federal 501(c)(3) status. The organization is working with Youngsville Free Methodist Church to form a fiscal sponsor agreement, allowing tax-deductible donations to support the mission while federal approval is pending.

The center is hosting a car wash fundraiser from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, June 20, at the Youngsville Free Methodist Church, 179 Davis St. There will also be several giveaways.

An open house will be held Aug. 3 in conjunction with Avant’s Family Fun Day fundraiser.

Avant is offering educational enrichment sessions inspired by beloved children’s literature, including Aesop’s Fables and The Boxcar Children. The programs combine storytelling, nature exploration, creative arts, practical skills and collaborative learning experiences. Sessions will be held at the Allegheny Valley Veterans Center in Clarendon. Bee Courageous at Garden Grub will provide lunches during each four-day program.