About
Great Start
Funded with a grant from the Early Childhood Investment Corporation of the State of Michigan and the Kellogg Foundation, our project began in April of 2006. The goal of the project is to form multiple collaborative bodies in the state to begin development of a comprehensive system of early childhood care and education for 0-5 year olds and their families. This system is similar to the Smart Start system of North Carolina and the state of Michigan is receiving technical assistance in our efforts from the state of North Carolina.
Vision
Our vision is that every child born in Charlevoix, Emmet and N. Antrim Counties has a Great Start growing and developing in communities that promote safe and healthy learning environments for children and families.
Mission
The Great Start Collaborative of Charlevoix, Emmet, and N. Antrim Counties will promote and develop a comprehensive system of support, education, and wellness for 0-5 age children and their families. Inclusive in the system are the unique concerns of our community, specific data and outcomes that will drive activities and resources of the collaborative effort. The results of these efforts are strength in human and economic assets for our community now and in the future.
Great Start Objectives for 2009-2010
- Maintain or reduce the infant mortality rate for Charlevoix, Emmet and northern
Antrim counties. - Increase public awareness on the dangers of lead and early childhood.
- Advocate for increased access and availability of an array of mental health services
for 0-5 aged children and their families. - Advocate for grass roots efforts for parent/Business involvement.
- Create a parent education resource director of parenting classes, videos, etc.
surrounding issues of early childhood and child development. - Every child has access to affordable increased quality child care.
- Every 3 & 4 year old child has access to affordable high quality preschool beginning
with those most at risk.
Great Start Collaborative Meeting Times and Locations:
Bi-monthly (May, July, September, November, January, March) the first Wednesday of each month from 9am -11am at the Boyne City, ISD (1313 Boyne City Ave., Boyne City, MI).
