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Head Start Awareness Month shines a light on learning, relationships, and support that begin long before kindergarten
For a 3-year-old, getting ready for kindergarten might look like painting a picture, taking turns with a friend, choosing a book, or learning to put on a coat. For a parent or caregiver, it might mean having someone to call with a question, setting a new family goal, or finding a resource they didn't know was available. During Head Start Awareness Month this October, Mid Michigan Community Action Agency (Mid Michigan CAA) is celebrating all the ways those small moments come together to help children and families grow. Head Start has always been about more than preparing children for school. Mid Michigan CAA's Head Start Preschool and Early Head Start programs work alongside families during some of a child's most important early years, recognizing that children learn everywhere: at school, at home, and with the people who know them best. “Parents and caregivers are their child's first and most important teachers,” said Stephanie VanderElzen, Director of Head Start at Mid Michigan CAA. “Our teachers get to be part of that team. We can help children explore, make friends, build confidence, and get ready for what's next, while also supporting the families who are helping them grow every day.” For preschoolers ages 3-5 in Clare and Gladwin Counties, Head Start provides opportunities to learn through play while developing social and emotional skills, independence, and the foundations for future learning. For younger children, learning often happens in a very different setting: right where they already spend their days. Early Head Start serves those who are pregnant and families with children from birth through age 3 in Clare, Gladwin, Mecosta, Midland, and Osceola Counties. The program is designed to fit into family life, with Early Head Start staff working one-on-one with families in their own homes. Everyday routines, play, and interactions become opportunities to support a child's development and help caregivers build on the learning already happening throughout the day. That approach can also remove practical barriers. Families don't have to arrange transportation or get babies and toddlers out the door for regular appointments, and children can learn and interact in a place where they already feel comfortable. Caregivers are part of the experience, building ideas and strategies they can continue using throughout the week. And the work goes beyond early learning. Depending on a family's individual needs and goals, Head Start and Early Head Start staff can help with parenting and child development, family goals, connections to other resources, transitions between programs and schools, and opportunities for parents and caregivers to take an active role in their child's education. “Every family comes to us with their own strengths, goals, and ideas for the future,” said Amyee Carson, Director of Whole Family Services at Mid Michigan CAA. “Head Start gives us the opportunity to build relationships with families and support what matters to them. When families grow stronger, children have an even stronger foundation to grow from.” Those relationships are part of what makes Head Start different. A child's time in the program may eventually end, but the confidence, skills, connections, and experiences children and caregivers build together can continue into kindergarten and beyond. For families who think Head Start might be a good fit, there isn't just one time of year to get started. Both Early Head Start and Head Start Preschool enroll families throughout the year. Early Head Start serves those who are pregnant and children from birth through age 3, while Head Start Preschool serves eligible children ages 3-5 as space is available. Children who aren't eligible for preschool at the beginning of the school year may become eligible when they turn 3 or 4, so families are encouraged to reach out at any time with questions about eligibility and enrollment. Families interested in Head Start Preschool can complete an application online or call 989-386-8075. Those interested in Early Head Start can complete an interest form online 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.
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By Amyee Carson, Director of Whole Family Services, and Stephanie VanderElzen, Director of Head Start
Mid Michigan Community Action Back-to-school season often brings to mind backpacks, classrooms, new teachers, and children preparing for another year of learning. For families with young children, however, preparing for school begins long before kindergarten. Head Start has understood that for decades. At Mid Michigan Community Action, Head Start includes both Head Start Preschool and Early Head Start. Head Start Preschool provides early education for children ages 3-5 in Clare and Gladwin Counties, while Early Head Start begins even earlier, supporting families during pregnancy and through a child’s first three years in Clare, Gladwin, Mecosta, Midland, and Osceola Counties. Head Start is about more than a child’s time in a classroom. Children learn and grow within families. What happens at home, the resources available to a family, a caregiver’s goals, a child’s development, and the relationships surrounding a child all play a role in helping that child thrive. That is why Head Start works with the whole family. For children, that can mean learning through play, building relationships, developing communication and social skills, and preparing for the transition to kindergarten. For parents and caregivers, it can mean having someone to turn to with questions about their child’s development, setting goals for their family, connecting with resources, becoming involved in their child’s education, and receiving support as their child’s first and most important teacher. Sometimes the support a family needs has little to do with what is happening in a classroom. A family may be continuing their education, working toward greater financial stability, looking for community resources, or navigating a change at home. Having a trusted team beside them can make a difference. This whole-family approach recognizes something simple but important: helping young children succeed means supporting the families raising them. And while the beginning of a new school year is a natural time to think about preschool, it is not the only time families can reach out. Head Start Preschool continues enrolling throughout the school year as space is available. Children can also become eligible when they turn 3 or 4 during the year. A child who isn't old enough for Head Start Preschool when school begins may become eligible later. School readiness does not suddenly begin when a child starts preschool, either. The foundations are being built from the very beginning, in a baby’s first relationships, a toddler’s exploration of the world, a preschooler’s growing independence, and the support surrounding their family throughout those years. That is the larger promise of Head Start. It is early education. It is family support. It is preparation for kindergarten. And through Early Head Start, that work can begin before a child is even born. Families interested in Early Head Start can learn more online here or call or text 1-877-386-4406. Families interested in Head Start Preschool can learn more online here or call 989-386-8075. If your child isn't eligible yet, you can still contact our team to find out when they may become eligible. Amyee Carson is the Director of Whole Family Services at Mid Michigan Community Action. Stephanie VanderElzen is the Director of Head Start at Mid Michigan Community Action. Mid Michigan Community Action provides Head Start Preschool in Clare and Gladwin Counties and Early Head Start in Clare, Gladwin, Mecosta, Midland, and Osceola Counties. In the News The Gladwin County Record and Beaverton Clarion: Head Start is more than preschool, published September 9, 2026 Clare County Cleaver: Head Start is More Than Preschool, published September 17, 2026  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:
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 April is Child Abuse Prevention Month, a time to come together as a community and recognize the importance of strong families, supportive environments, and safe childhoods.
At Mid Michigan Community Action Agency (Mid Michigan CAA), this work happens every day by helping families access the tools, resources, and support they need to care for their children and build stable, healthy homes. “When families feel supported, children have a better chance to grow, learn, and thrive,” said Stephanie VanderElzen, Head Start Director. “Programs like Head Start Preschool and Early Head Start create safe, nurturing spaces where children can develop and caregivers can feel confident and connected.” Mid Michigan CAA offers several programs that support families with young children, including Head Start Preschool, Early Head Start, and WIC (Women, Infants, and Children). These programs provide early learning opportunities, nutrition support, and guidance for caregivers during some of the most important years of a child’s life. Through these services, families can access:
“Support makes a difference,” said Amyee Carson, Whole Family Services Director. “When caregivers have someone to turn to, it can ease stress and help families feel more confident in meeting their children’s needs. That kind of support strengthens the whole community.” Child Abuse Prevention Month is a reminder that creating safe and healthy environments for children is something everyone can be part of. Whether it’s offering encouragement, sharing resources, or helping families connect to support, small actions can make a big impact. Get Connected Mid Michigan Community Action offers programs for families with young children across several counties.
If you’re not sure where to begin, reach out. We’re here to help you find the support that’s right for your family. Mid Michigan Community Action guides local residents on the path to self-sufficiency through empowerment, education and community enrichment. In The News Gladwin County Record & Beaverton Clarion: Recognizing Child Abuse Prevention Month in April, Published April 15, 2026 Mid Michigan Community Action & Artworks of Big Rapids Collaborate for Early Head Start Art Exhibit11/17/2025 A recent article in the Big Rapids Pioneer highlighted a creative partnership between Artworks of Big Rapids and Mid Michigan Community Action, showcasing artwork made by families in our Early Head Start program as part of Artworks’ exhibit. The collaboration brings together community, art, and early childhood education in a public, welcoming space. “This special exhibition celebrates the beauty of discovery, creativity, and connection through the lens of nature and early learning. Rooted in the belief that the arts and environment are powerful teachers, this initiative brings together families, educators, and young children to explore the natural world through hands-on artmaking. . . . This exhibition stands as a joyful reminder that when children engage with art and nature, they build the foundations for lifelong learning, imagination, and environmental awareness,” the article notes. At Mid Michigan Community Action, our Early Head Start program provides support and resources for those who are pregnant and children from birth through age 3 in Clare, Gladwin, Mecosta, Midland, and Osceola Counties. Through projects like this art exhibit, we offer children and families enriching experiences beyond the classroom, building confidence, connection, and community through creative expression. If you’re interested in learning more about our Early Head Start programs or ways to get involved, visit our Early Head Start page or call or text 1-877-386-4406. In the News
This article celebrates the power of community partnerships and how creative experiences like this support children’s development and build connection between families, educators, and the local arts community. 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
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. Mid Michigan Community Action Agency (Mid Michigan CAA) is now enrolling for Head Start Preschool for the 2025–2026 school year. Children who will be 3 or 4 years old by September 1, 2025 and who live in Clare or Gladwin County may qualify.
Head Start is a free, high-quality preschool program that prepares children for school and beyond by supporting their development academically, socially, and emotionally. “This year marks 60 years of Head Start, and we are proud to continue that legacy here in Mid Michigan,” said Stephanie VanderElzen, Head Start Preschool Director at Mid Michigan CAA. “We see every day how powerful early learning can be for our children, their families, and our whole community. It's about more than getting ready for kindergarten—it's about building a foundation for a lifetime of growth and learning.” Head Start Preschool offers a warm, supportive classroom environment with individualized learning plans, nutritious meals and snacks, family engagement, and connections to additional community resources. The program is designed not only for the child, but for the whole family—working to reduce barriers and build stability that lasts. Head Start also supports families and local communities in practical ways. This past school year alone, we served over 50,000 meals and snacks to children in our classrooms and purchased more than $23,000 in food from local grocery stores—boosting nutrition and supporting local businesses at the same time. And for parents and caregivers, having access to preschool means more than early learning—it often means the ability to work or go back to school while knowing their child is in a safe, supportive environment. Through our partnership with the Great Start Readiness Program (GSRP) and the Clare and Gladwin Counties Quality Preschool Partnership, we’re able to serve even more families and ensure more children in our community have access to quality early learning. Families can apply today at www.mmcaa.org/preschool or by calling 989-386-8075. For families who are expecting or have children from birth through age 3 and aren't yet ready for preschool, Mid Michigan CAA also offers Early Head Start. This free program provides support for pregnant individuals, infants, and toddlers and is available in Clare, Gladwin, Mecosta, Midland, and Osceola Counties. Apply for Early Head Start online at www.mmcaa.org/ehs or call or text 1-877-386-4406 to learn more. This year marks 60 years of Head Start’s impact across the country. Whether you’re a parent, grandparent, or community member, we invite you to celebrate with us by sharing this opportunity with families you know. Early learning is a powerful way to build strong kids, strong families, and strong communities. Discover more about our Early Childhood programs here: www.mmcaa.org/childrenandfamilies. Mid Michigan Community Action guides local residents on the path to self-sufficiency through empowerment, education and community enrichment. Mid Michigan Community Action Agency (Mid Michigan CAA) is excited to announce the relocation of our Mecosta, Midland, and Oceana County Community Action Centers to new locations, allowing us to better serve our neighbors by bringing services together in more accessible spaces.
For over 50 years, Mid Michigan CAA has worked to connect individuals and families with essential resources and opportunities, helping them achieve stability and self-sufficiency. By moving these offices, we continue our mission of making support services more accessible and responsive to the needs of our communities. Excitement for the Future Community Empowerment Director Cherri Swanstra shared, “We’re thrilled to bring our services together in these new locations. This allows us to better serve our neighbors by making our programs more accessible and connected. We look forward to continuing our mission and strengthening the communities we serve.” Early Head Start and WIC Director Amyee Carson added, “These moves allow us to enhance the services we provide for families. We’re excited to welcome our neighbors to these new spaces and continue supporting them with all of our amazing programs.” Outreach and Opportunities Director Eva Rohlman, who oversees homeless and veteran programs, emphasized, “By consolidating our services in these locations, we can better coordinate and deliver resources to those who need them most. This move strengthens our ability to provide comprehensive support to individuals and families.” Each of our Community Action Centers has a Resource Navigator on-site to help residents navigate the services available, answer questions about eligibility, and guide individuals through the application process. New Locations
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For more information, call or text any of our Community Action Centers:
Visit: mmcaa.org Connect with us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and YouTube Mid Michigan Community Action is committed to guiding local residents on the path to self-sufficiency through empowerment, education, and community enrichment. We look forward to serving our neighbors from our new locations and continuing to make a positive impact in the communities we call home. This October Mid Michigan Community Action Agency (Mid Michigan CAA) is celebrating Head Start Awareness Month, recognizing the vital role that both Early Head Start and Preschool Head Start programs play in the development of young children and families. These programs work together to provide critical resources and comprehensive support for children from birth through age 5 and pregnant individuals, ensuring they receive the education, health, and family services needed for a strong start in life.
Early Head Start serves pregnant individuals and children from birth through age 3 in Clare, Gladwin, Mecosta, Midland, and Osceola Counties, focusing on nurturing infant and toddler development during these critical early years. The program helps parents build strong bonds with their children, supports health and wellness, and offers resources to create a foundation for lifelong learning. “Early Head Start supports families during some of the most important developmental years of a child’s life,” said Amyee Carson, Early Head Start & WIC Director at Mid Michigan CAA. “We partner with parents to support pregnancies and provide the guidance and resources needed to help infants and toddlers grow, learn, and build strong relationships. It’s truly about giving families the tools to support their child’s healthy development right from the start.” Preschool serves children from ages 3 through 5 in Clare and Gladwin Counties, providing high-quality early education that promotes school readiness through play, hands-on learning, and the development of essential social, emotional, and cognitive skills. “Our Preschool program is all about creating a strong foundation for children as they prepare for school,” said Stephanie VanderElzen, Head Start Director at Mid Michigan CAA. “We focus on nurturing each child’s curiosity, creativity, and social skills through engaging, play-based learning. Head Start is more than just education—it’s about empowering children and their families to thrive.” To learn more or apply for Early Head Start, visit www.mmcaa.org/earlyheadstart or call or text 1-877-386-4406. To learn more or apply for Preschool, visit www.mmcaa.org/preschoolheadstart or call 989-386-8075. Mid Michigan CAA is dedicated to providing comprehensive early childhood education and family services through programs like Head Start. We are committed to ensuring that every child has the opportunity to thrive in a supportive environment and reach their fullest potential. Mid Michigan Community Action Agency guides local residents on the path to self-sufficiency through empowerment, education and community enrichment. Head Start Awareness Month is an opportunity to celebrate the numerous benefits of Head Start. Mid Michigan Community Action Agency (Mid Michigan CAA) operates a Head Start program which includes Preschool for children from 3 through 5, Early Head Start for those who are pregnant and children from birth through 3, as well as Policy Council for parents of currently enrolled children giving voice to policy and supporting program operations.
Preschool gives children a head start by supporting healthy physical, academic, and social-emotional development. Mid Michigan CAA’s Preschool program provides structured play time, activities, and learning opportunities for children from 3 through 5 and support for their families in Clare and Gladwin Counties. “Children enrolled in a high-quality Preschool program transition to kindergarten ready and eager to learn. Our Preschool services include basic need support, education, and community resources to support children and families. The health and well-being of our children, families and staff is always our highest priority,” said Stephanie VanderElzen, Head Start Director at Mid Michigan CAA. Early Head Start supports family-child relationships that encourage healthy growth and development for early learning and success . Mid Michigan CAA’s Early Head Start program provides supportive services for those who are pregnant and children from birth through 3 in Clare, Gladwin, Mecosta, Midland, and Osceola Counties. “Early Head Start services include basic needs support, early education, infant/toddler development, family support, and community resources. We are committed to our families. Now more than ever we can provide a warm blanket of support for our families and young children,” said Sue Harvey, Early Head Start and WIC Director at Mid Michigan CAA. Policy Council gives parents of enrolled children the opportunity to work with program staff to communicate ideas and contribute to program decisions to ensure children receive the best education and experience possible. Mid Michigan CAA’s Preschool Head Start is enrolling 3 and 4-year-olds in Clare and Gladwin Counties now. To complete an application, call 989-386-8075 or visit www.claregladwinpreschool.org. Mid Michigan CAA’s Early Head Start is enrolling now for those who are pregnant or have a child from birth through 3 in Clare, Gladwin, Mecosta, Midland, and Osceola Counties. To complete an interest form, call or text us at 1-877-386-4406 or visit www.mmcaa.org/ehs. Parents of enrolled children interested in joining Policy Council should contact Vicki Bohr at 989-426-2801 or [email protected]. Learn more about all Mid Michigan CAA’s early childhood programs at www.mmcaa.org/ecs. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and LinkedIn at @midmichigancommunityaction for news and updates. Mid Michigan Community Action guides local residents on the path to self-sufficiency through empowerment, education and community enrichment. |
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This website is supported by Grant Number 05CH012316 and 05CH011635 from the Office of Head Start within the Administration for Children and Families, a division of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Neither the Administration for Children and Families nor any of its components operate, control, are responsible for, or necessarily endorse this website (including, without limitation, its content, technical infrastructure, and policies, and any services or tools provided). The opinions, findings, conclusions, and recommendations expressed are those of Mid Michigan Community Action Agency and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Administration for Children and Families and the Office of Head Start.
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