The organization received its first articles of incorporation and was recognized as a non-profit under Internal Revenue Code section 501(c)(3) in 1977.

In 1988, the City of Cannon Beach developed a Comprehensive Plan in response to the community's need for high quality child care that was affordable for working families.  The city donated land and the community pooled money and resources to build the children's center.

In 1989, the organization was established as the Cannon Beach Children's Center.

The City of Cannon Beach continues to support the children's center with a community grant award that constitutes approximately 25% of the operating budget. Tuition from parents provides approximately 40%. The center's fundraisers bring in about 15% and generous donations from businesses, corporations, and individuals comprise the remainder.