Mid Michigan Community Action Hosts 22nd Annual Fun Day in the Park with STEAM Activities for Young Children and Families

​Mid Michigan Community Action Agency (Mid Michigan CAA) invites families to join the 22nd Annual Fun Day in the Park on June 12, 2026, from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM at Shamrock Park in Clare. This family-friendly event will feature hands-on activities focused on STEAM—science, technology, engineering, art, and math—through fun, age-appropriate play for young children.

Fun Day in the Park is designed for families who are pregnant and families with young children, but families with older children are welcome, too. Children will have the chance to build, explore, create, and enjoy messy play while learning through simple activities that make STEAM exciting and approachable for little learners.

“Fun Day in the Park is one of our favorite ways to bring families together,” said Stephanie VanderElzen, Head Start Director at Mid Michigan CAA. “STEAM activities help young children practice big skills like curiosity, creativity, and problem solving in kid-sized ways while families connect with our staff, meet other local families, and enjoy a fun day in the community.”

In addition to the activities, families can enjoy food, meet Mid Michigan CAA staff, and connect with other families in the community while learning more about early childhood programs and resources available in the area.

“We love creating opportunities where families can relax, have fun, and feel supported,” said Amyee Carson, Whole Family Services Director. “Events like Fun Day in the Park help families build connections while learning about services like Early Head Start, Head Start Preschool, and other community resources that can support them through pregnancy and early childhood.”

For questions or more information, contact Katelynn McKellar at [email protected] or 989-386-0892.

This event is supported by United Way of Clare and Gladwin Counties and by funding from the MiLEAP 35i MiFamily Engagement Centers Grant.

To learn more about Mid Michigan CAA’s early childhood programs:

• Head Start Preschool serves children who will be 3 or 4 by September 1, 2026, in Clare and Gladwin Counties. Apply online at https://www.mmcaa.org/preschool.html or call 989-386-8075.
• Early Head Start serves those who are pregnant and children from birth through age 3 in Clare, Gladwin, Mecosta, Midland, and Osceola Counties. Complete an interest form online at https://www.mmcaa.org/ehs.html or call or text 1-877-386-4406.

​Mid Michigan Community Action guides local residents on the path to self-sufficiency through empowerment, education and community enrichment.

In the News
State of Michigan: Next Round of Literacy Trainings and Family Events Expands Across Michigan Amid Growing Demand for Early Learning Support: Events Planned in Marquette, Big Rapids, Jenison, Scottville, Clare, Metro Detroit and Northeast Michigan, Published April 7, 2026