Hand In Hand first opened its doors in 1998, founded by Kathy Kolthoff in her home with a passion for nurturing and educating young children. By 2001, growing demand from families in the community led to the opening of our first dedicated center on 9th Street in Marion. This milestone marked the beginning of our commitment to providing quality early childhood care and education in a safe, welcoming environment.
As our reputation for personalized care and developmentally appropriate practices grew, Hand In Hand experienced rapid expansion. In 2008, we moved to a larger, state-of-the-art facility on Barrington Parkway in Marion to better serve families. We later opened additional locations at Tower Lane in Cedar Rapids, 35th Avenue in Marion, and Hiawatha, allowing us to reach even more children and communities.
Today, Hand In Hand proudly offers comprehensive programming that includes infant and toddler care, preschool, and school-age programs designed to support continued growth beyond the early years. We are also a SWVPPS (Shared Visions Voluntary Preschool Program Site) partner with the Linn-Mar Community School District, helping ensure children are kindergarten-ready through high-quality, collaborative preschool experiences.
Throughout our journey, Hand In Hand has remained dedicated to supporting children and families with compassionate care, expert staff, and a community-centered approach. Our history reflects a deep commitment to fostering growth, learning, and confidence in every child we serve.
At Hand In Hand Inc., we believe that every child is unique and deserves personalized care tailored to their individual needs. Our commitment to developmentally appropriate practices ensures that each child learns and grows at their own pace in a safe and nurturing environment.
We stand out through our collaborative approach—working closely with families, caregivers, and community professionals to create a strong support system around every child. Our experienced and compassionate team continually engages in professional development to bring the latest evidence-based strategies to our programs.
Additionally, our focus on inclusivity means all children, regardless of ability or background, are welcomed and supported with respect and kindness. This dedication to quality, individualized care and family partnership sets Hand In Hand apart as a trusted leader in early childhood development.
Hi! I’m Kathy Kolthoff, Owner and Executive Director of Hand In Hand Early Childhood Center Inc. With a lifelong passion for nurturing young children and supporting families, I’ve dedicated my career to creating a safe, engaging, and enriching environment where children can grow, learn, and flourish.
I hold degrees in Early Childhood Education and Business Management from Kirkwood Community College, and have completed extensive professional development throughout my career—including the National Administrator Credential (NAC) and coursework in Small Business Management. These experiences have equipped me to lead Hand In Hand with both heart and expertise.
In addition to my leadership role, I remain an active voice in the early childhood education community. I am a proud member of the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) and the Iowa Association for the Education of Young Children (IAEYC). These affiliations reflect my ongoing commitment to high-quality care, professional collaboration, and advocacy for children and educators alike.
Outside of work, I’m a proud wife, mom of four children and two bonus kiddos, and pet parent to three dogs and two cats. I love spending time with my family and friends, reading a good book, and exploring new places whenever I can.
At Hand In Hand, I’m honored to lead a dedicated team that shares my belief in the power of early childhood education to shape confident, capable, and compassionate young learners.
