Bright Horizons Foundation for Children Partners with United South End Settlements to Open Bright Space for Historic Children’s Art Centre

March 24, 2026 – he Bright Horizons Foundation for Children recently opened a new Bright Space at United South End Settlements (USES) in Boston, MA. Bright Spaces is the Foundation’s signature program that provides engaging environments for play that are cheerful, inviting, safe, and fun. Through this program, the Foundation partners with nonprofit organizations like USES to support children and families in their care. To date, the Bright Horizons Foundation for Children has created more than 300 Bright Spaces across the United States.

“Our goal with Bright Spaces is to give children the opportunities they deserve to develop resilience and form stronger bonds with their families and other caring adults. We strive to promote healing, offer nurturing and stimulating activities, and provide a stable, enriching environment for each child who walks through the door.” stated Yvonne Lynch, President of The Bright Horizons Foundation for Children.

The Bright Space at USES was created in honor of the retirement of Dr. Sara Lawrence-Lightfoot, a former Bright Horizons Board Member. Dr. Lawrence-Lightfoot selected USES as the recipient of her Bright Space because of its deep personal significance. Located in Boston’s South End, USES is part of the community where she raised her children and served on the organization’s Board of Directors from 1975 to 1978.

The new Bright Space features an open art studio space with storage for future art projects created by children, families, and future community members.  The Children’s Art Centre had previously been unused for several years. This beautiful space is now set to become the centerpiece of USES’s Art Program, making art and creative expression accessible to all children. 

“Reopening the Children’s Art Centre as a Bright Space is a powerful moment for our community and for the history of United South End Settlements. For generations, this building has been a place where children and families come to learn, create, and belong. Through this partnership with the Bright Horizons Foundation for Children, we are renewing that legacy while ensuring that every child, regardless of background, has access to beautiful, inspiring spaces that nurture creativity and imagination. Making the arts accessible is not just about programming; it’s about creating environments where children feel valued, curious, and free to explore who they are. Today, we are honoring the history of the Children’s Art Centre while opening its doors to a new generation of young artists and families served by USES.” stated Jerrell Cox, CEO of USES.

To learn more about the Bright Horizons Foundation for Children, visit here.