Alliance Center for Education, affectionately known as AC4Ed, was formerly known as Bethlehem Center of Charlotte until a rebranding in 2020. Bethlehem Center was founded in 1940 by the United Methodist Women in the Brooklyn neighborhood of Charlotte to provide much-needed childcare and support to mothers during WWII.  

​This support was greatly needed and expanded over the next several years. In 1956, services expanded into the Southside, Brookhill, and Wilmore Communities, offering Charlotte’s first free kindergarten programs, activities for school-age children and other family enrichment services. Today, AC4Ed operates in 12 Center locations across Charlotte, serving more than 800 families daily.  

​We still treasure our strong, continued relationship with the United Methodist Church and the United Methodist Women, now known as the United Women in Faith. We are grateful to their dedication and passion for serving communities in need.  

​Our Mission​

Our mission is to provide high-quality education and support for children in need through partnership with their families.  

 Our Vision​

Our vision is to positively affect the future of children at risk by improving economic mobility through education.

​Our Impact ​

Through our services to families and communities for more than 80 years, AC4Ed has become a trusted voice and partner for children and parents. We are honored to be ingrained in the communities we serve and are pleased to work alongside other organizations and partners that share our passion for serving children and families.