Rachel Dobine | Smart Choice Learning Center

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What’s the name of your business, nonprofit or project?

Smart Choice Learning Center

What city and country is your business, nonprofit or project located in?

Chicago, IL

Describe your business, nonprofit or project, and the products and/or services you offer?

Smart Choice Learning Center is a daycare located on the South Side of Chicago at 7122 S Vincennes Ave. We specialize in providing high-quality childcare and early education for children from 6 weeks to 6 years old. Our center is dedicated to nurturing young minds and fostering a safe, stimulating environment where children can grow and learn. We offer a range of educational activities and developmental programs designed to support each child’s individual needs and interests. Whether you’re looking for dependable daycare services or a structured learning environment, Smart Choice Learning Center is here to support your family’s needs.

Are you Caribbean or African, or of Caribbean or African descent? If you are, please tell us details.

I am of Jamaican descent.

Do you think your Caribbean or African upbringing/heritage has impacted your work? If so, please explain how.

Growing up in a Jamaican household with 10 siblings and 7 nieces and nephews has profoundly influenced my approach to running Smart Choice Learning Center. My Caribbean heritage and the vibrant family dynamics have shaped my values and inspired the mission of the daycare.

In a large, close-knit family, I learned the importance of community, mutual support, and the joy of shared experiences. These values translate directly into the environment we strive to create at Smart Choice Learning Center. Just as my upbringing emphasized the role of each family member in supporting and nurturing one another, our center focuses on building a supportive community where every child feels valued and cared for.

The Caribbean emphasis on education and respect for diverse cultural traditions also plays a significant role in our curriculum. We incorporate elements of cultural enrichment into our programs to ensure that children not only receive a solid educational foundation but also develop an appreciation for diverse cultures and traditions.

Overall, my background has instilled a deep commitment to providing a nurturing, inclusive, and engaging environment for young learners, ensuring they are supported in every aspect of their development.

How does your work positively impact culture + community?

Smart Choice Learning Center is dedicated to making a positive impact by supporting single mothers, enriching the cultural landscape, engaging with the community, and advancing educational opportunities. Our work is designed to address the specific needs of the South Side of Chicago and contribute to the well-being and development of both individuals and the community as a whole.

How should potential customers and persons interested in networking & partnerships contact you?

You can contact me via email or mobile. My email is smartchoicelearningcenter64@gmail.com and my phone number is 773-415-3464.

What message of hope or inspiration would you like to share with other women in our community who are also pursuing their dreams?

“Believe in your vision and embrace your journey with resilience and passion. Every step you take towards your dreams, no matter how small, is a step towards building a brighter future for yourself and those around you. Remember that challenges are part of the path, but they do not define your limits—they reveal your strength and determination. Lean on your community, support one another, and celebrate every achievement along the way. Your efforts and dreams are powerful and can create ripples of positive change. Keep pushing forward with confidence, knowing that your hard work and dedication have the potential to inspire and uplift others. Together, we can build a vibrant and supportive community where everyone’s dreams have the chance to flourish.”