arts & entertainment

Childcare Resources of Indian River is pleased to announce that Major General Michael Hall, U.S. Air Force (Ret.), will be the featured presenter at its 15th Annual Starfest fundraising event, to be held on Tuesday, February 10, 2026.

General Hall is a decorated officer turned national advocate for early childhood education. After a distinguished three-decade military career, he is now a leader with Mission: Readiness, a bipartisan coalition of more than 750 retired admirals and generals who promote research-backed policies that strengthen America’s national security through investments in children and families. Known for his compelling message that “the greatest long-term investment our country can make isn’t in machinery or missiles—it’s in its children,” Hall connects his military leadership with the urgent need for high-quality early education and family support.

At Starfest 2026, General Hall will speak about how national readiness begins with kindergarten readiness, aligning with Childcare Resources’ mission to ensure every child has the opportunity to thrive, regardless of their family’s financial situation.

“If children are not ready for kindergarten, they won’t be ready for high school, for work, or for life,” says General Hall.

Starfest guests will have the opportunity to hear General Hall’s inspiring insights during a sit-down luncheon at Quail Valley River Club, with an additional ticketed cocktail party to follow that evening at Quail Valley on The Pointe.

Proceeds from Starfest directly support Childcare Resources’ year-round programs, which provide access to accredited early childhood education for children from working families, comprehensive wellness and family support services, and outreach programs that strengthen the local early childhood education workforce.

Mark your calendars now—this is a Starfest you won’t want to miss. Sponsorship opportunities for Starfest 2026 are still available. To learn more about how you can support this event and the work of Childcare Resources, please call 772-567-3202, ext. 104 or visit ChildcareResourcesIR.org.