Our Vision

We see a world where children develop to their fullest potential.  They understand and value their own strengths and needs, as well as those of others.

Wirtzie’s Preschool and Child Care programs are designed to provide a community where relationships are built and everyone contributes and belongs. We embrace the individuality of our children, their families and our staff and know out of differences come strength, learning and understanding. By providing  child care for wobblers and toddlers, and an early education program for preschool age children, we cultivate a caring community for Surprise.

Wirtzie’s Preschool and Child Care is a program of Benevilla, a nonprofit organization which has been serving families in the Northwest Valley since 1981.

For more information visit us at http://www.benevilla.org

Wirtzie’s

Dick and Eileen Bloechl have always believed in supporting their community, whether it was in their hometown of Oshkosh, Wisconsin, or their retirement community in Arizona. They were honored with the Interfaith Community Care (Benevilla) Spirit of Philanthropy Award in 2007.

Dick retired from UPS after a career of 31 years in National Finance, serving in five states throughout the Midwest. In each state, he was proud to serve on boards of many nonprofit agencies and used his skills to assist with fundraising efforts.

Eileen was a social worker in the Green Bay area, and together they raised four daughters and one son. She saw the value of creating an atmosphere of learning and love for children of all ages.

They desired that their legacy be defined by providing a nurturing environment for the children of future generations. Eileen’s maiden name was Wirtz, and her college friends affectionately called her Wirtzie. This name became the inspiration for the name Wirtzie’s Preschool and Child Care.

Alice’s Wonderland

Alices Wonderland

Ken and Alice Meade always lived by the Golden Rule – it’s important to help take care of the community where you live and work. They have been long-time supporters of Benevilla, making sure that the services Benevilla provides continue to be available. Ken has served on many boards with other nonprofits and uses his skills to help raise money for the community. Ken was honored with the Benevilla Spirit of Philanthropy Award in 2008.

Both Ken and Alice were born in New York City and moved to Phoenix with their three children in 1958. They eventually opened Ken Meade Realty in 1983.

Alice’s Wonderland is a testament to their commitment to all generations having the best quality of life possible.

“I’m naming this playground after Alice because I love her, and she deserves this.” ~Ken Meade

Arts Center Sign

Art’s Center for All Ages

After coming to Sun City West as Michigan snowbirds, Art and Helen Nickless deeply appreciated the way Benevilla provided respite care for spouses who were faithfully caring for their beloved mates.

Art and Helen were devoted to their family and took a “family first” attitude that extended to helping under-served children of the next generation and generations to come.

Part of the commitment was Art’s support in opening Art’s Center for All Ages, a dedicated space between Lucy Anne’s Place and Wirtzie’s, which allows children and elders to come together to learn and grow and enjoy relationships with each other that are life-giving to all.