Great Start Collaborative

Great Start Collaborative LogoMission

Support the early childhood system so all children THRIVE.

Vision

Provide a Great Start for every child focusing on the state's early childhood outcomes.

Michigan's early childhood outcomes

1. Children are born healthy;

2. Children are healthy, thriving, and developmentally on track from birth to third grade;

3. Children are developmentally ready to succeed in school at the time of school entry; and

4. Children are prepared to succeed in fourth grade and beyond by reading proficiently by the end of third grade

Great Start Family Coalition

The Great Start Family Coalition (GSFC) is a group of parents and caregivers who work together to make Mecosta and Osceola Counties a supportive place for families with young children. Parent Voice is crucial and instrumental to the work of the Great Start Collaborative (GSC). Parents are children's first and most important teachers!

The Great Start Family Coalition is a group of parents and caregivers who get together to make Mecosta & Osceola Counties a supportive place for families with young children. What we do: Support and encourage parents and families Educate community members about the importance of early childhood Provide information, education, and resources to families raising young children Guide Michigan's Early Childhood Outcomes to fit the needs of our community Why get involved? Learn about child development Build connections with other parents Volunteer for and learn how to plan events Gain leadership skills Learn how to effectively advocate for children. What is a GSFC Meeting?  A safe space for parents and caregivers come together to share information and give input to help improve early childhood resources

Meeting Schedule

February 25th

10-11a at Angels of Action

6-7pm Virtual via Zoom

March 25th

10-11a at Angels of Action

6-7pm Virtual via Zoom

April 22nd

10-11a at Angels of Action

6-7pm Virtual via Zoom

May 20th

10-11a at Angels of Action

6-7pm Virtual via Zoom

Google FormsFamily Coalition Registration


Parent Cafes

Are you looking to connect with other parent facing the same challenges as you? Parent Cafes are a fulfilling way for parents to talk, listen, and support each other as we discuss the joys and challenges that come with parenting. Parent Cafes help build strong families using The Five Protective Factors.

Upcoming Parent Cafes

November 19th 10-11a

The Bridge Coffee Shop, Reed City

November 20th 10-11a

The Corner Cup, Remus

December 17th 10-11a

The Bridge Coffee Shop, Reed City

December 18th 10-11a

The Corner Cup, Remus

January 14th 10-11a

The Bridge Coffee Shop, Reed City

January 15th 10-11a

The Corner Cup, Remus

February 11th 10-11a

The Bridge Coffee Shop, Reed City

February 12th 10-11a

The Corner Cup, Remus


PDF DocumentThe Bridge Coffee Shop Parent Cafe

PDF DocumentThe Corner Cup Parent Cafe

Google FormsParent Cafe Registration


Mom Power

Parenting young children is the most one of life's most rewarding and challenging experiences! Mom Power is a 10-week strengths-based workshop. During the workshop moms will have the opportunity to connect with other mothers, take time for self-care, and learn parenting techniques that strengthen the parent child relationship.

Mom Power Tree

Winter Group

When: Thursdays from 6p-7:30p starting January 23rd

Where: Virtual via Zoom


Spring Group

When: Mondays from 10a-12p starting April 7th

Where: Angels of Action 


PDF DocumentMom Power Groups

Google FormsMom Power Registration


Community Baby Shower

Community Baby Shower coming March 2025. Stay Up to date with Community Baby Shower info on the Together2THRIVE Facebook Page!

More information coming soon!

Let's Talk About Our Community



Talk, Read, Sing!

Parents can help their children develop strong language skills through everyday interactions. Check out this tip sheet from Too Small to Fail to learn more about things you can do every day at home and in the community to build your child’s language skills: Tip Sheet

External LinkTalking is Teaching






This program is funded through a grant provided by the Michigan Department of Lifelong Education, Advancement, and Potential
Tricia Smith-Bennett
Great Start Collaborative Coordinator
Kerry Winkle
Family Liaison