Building Brighter Futures for Families and Communities

Celebrating Head Start Awareness Month

This October, Mid Michigan Community Action Agency (Mid Michigan CAA) celebrates Head Start Awareness Month, recognizing the life-changing impact Head Start Preschool and Early Head Start have on children, families, and the communities they call home.

Head Start Preschool and Early Head Start programs offer more than early learning. They provide family-centered support that helps children grow, encourages parents and caregivers, and connects families with the tools they need to thrive now and into the future.

“We see the difference every day,” said Stephanie VanderElzen, Head Start Director at Mid Michigan CAA. “When children have a safe place to learn and grow, when families have the support they need, when we build community together, we’re giving kids the best chance at success. That helps everyone.”

For 60 years, Head Start programs across the country have helped children and families reach their goals. Children who participate in Head Start are more likely to start kindergarten ready to learn and go on to succeed in school and life. Parents and caregivers in our programs are more likely to read with their children, continue their own education, and feel confident supporting their child’s development.

“Early Head Start supports families during some of the most important years of a child’s life,” said Amyee Carson, Whole Family Services Director. “From pregnancy through the toddler years, we walk alongside families, helping them build healthy relationships and strong foundations.”

Each year, we serve over 350 children and their families through Head Start and Early Head Start, and that impact reaches even further when you consider the positive effects for caregivers, schools, and communities.

Mid Michigan CAA is proud to be part of the Clare and Gladwin Counties Quality Preschool Partnership, offering both Head Start and Great Start Readiness Program (GSRP) classrooms. These partnerships allow us to serve more children and families in our community.

Build a Brighter Future
Mid Michigan Community Action offers no-cost Early Head Start and Head Start Preschool programs for eligible families.
 
Early Head Start is available for pregnant families and children from birth through age 3 in Clare, Gladwin, Mecosta, Midland, and Osceola Counties. Families can apply online at www.mmcaa.org/ehs or call or text 1-877-386-4406 to get started.

Head Start Preschool is available for children who were 3 or 4 years old by September 1, 2025 in Clare and Gladwin Counties. Families can apply at www.mmcaa.org/preschool or call 989-386-8075 for more information.

Both programs support children's development through play-based learning, healthy meals, developmental screenings, and family-focused services. Caregivers also receive support to pursue their own goals and connect to community resources.

Celebrate with Us
Celebrate Head Start Awareness Month with fun, connection, and early learning! Come meet our staff, explore activities for children, and find out how Head Start and Early Head Start can support your family!

Beaverton Fall Fest is on October 11. We’ll be there in downtown Beaverton from 12–4 PM with crafts, games, and a chance to meet our team. Contact Malinda at 989-418-1032 or [email protected] for more information.

Books and Bubbles is on October 14 from 11 AM–12 PM at Clare City Park and features story time and bubble play for little learners. Contact Jenny at 989-802-1782 or [email protected] for more information.

Crafts, Games, and Autumn Days is on October 21 from 4–6 PM at Clare City Park and offers hands-on activities, fall fun, and friendly conversation. Contact Jenny at 989-802-1782 or [email protected] for more information.

Get Involved
Now more than ever, it’s important to share the positive impact of Head Start. These programs work best when communities come together—local, state, and federal support makes all of this possible.

If you’re a parent, caregiver, or community member, learn more, share your story, or contact your legislators to show your support for early learning.

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

In the News

• Huron Daily Tribune: Published October 2, 2025
• Midland Daily News: Published October 2, 2025​
• MSN: Published October 2, 2025

​These articles highlighted the importance of Head Start in supporting families and provided strong visibility for our Early Childhood programs during this national recognition month.