Tots and Tumbling Learning Center, LLC

Located in Carrington, Tots and Tumbling Learning Center LLC started with two people having shared interests in fulfilling the needs of their community and repurposing a beloved vacant space.

In 2021, Whitney Carter, who owned childcare centers in New Town and Parshall, made the decision to move “back home” to Carrington. She wanted to fill a community need for more childcare. As her journey began, she stumbled upon a vacant church building. While taking steps toward purchasing the building, Tammy Sorenson presented her with an idea.

Sorenson, who owns and operates Carrington Gymnastics, had always rented space and approached Carter about purchasing the building together. It was an opportunity to invest in their own property rather than paying rent. They formed the Tots and Tumbling Learning Center partnership and purchased the building under the joint venture.

Jay Tweed from Bremer Bank was the local banker who built the financing package that included BND’s Flex PACE Loan.

Carter shared, “For business owners who are just starting and trying to make it, the first two years when you need to include your startup expenses are incredibly costly. The Flex PACE Loan decreased our bank loan by 50%.”

“Utilizing the right funding is a key factor in setting a business up for success. Done correctly, it can allow businesses to grab new opportunities, improve old ones, and provide a safety net for unforeseen circumstances,” Tweed explained. “The interest buydown allowed them to free up additional cash for other areas of the business, such as remodeling the building and additional staffing.”

Purchasing the building allows Carter and Sorenson to build equity while providing needed services in the community. Tweed said, “Prior to opening, there was a shortage of daycare providers in the area, which as a parent of young children myself, I realize how important it was to have a business address that need. The gymnastics program adds another activity people can enjoy, especially during the winter season when outdoor activities are limited.”

BND Business Banker Bruce Schumacher added, “Reliable childcare is a challenge for workforce across the state. BND recognizes this need and utilizes Flex PACE to support providers. It’s great to be able to assist with this project that fills an empty space while providing excellent childcare and healthy activities for families in the community.”

Sorenson’s Carrington Gymnastics is in the middle of the building with Carter’s Milestones Early Learning Center in the classrooms surrounding it. Their partnership successfully brought two community needs, childcare and fitness, into one building—a beloved church that was sitting vacant.

Built in the 1970s, the church served many community members before abruptly closing a few years ago. Carter explained that people will visit the building and share stories of how they used to attend church services or were married there. She said, “They’re so happy that there’s something happening. It’s filled with kids and lots of good memories.”