Click here to view the updated Playgroup Schedule for Mason, Lake and Oceana Counties!

The Great Start Collaborative is seeking an energetic systems thinker needed to fill a leadership role for the three county early childhood collaborative.

For more information on the position please view the GSC Director Position Description.

If you are interested in applying for the position please complete the application process listed in the position description and fill out the Questions For Executive Director Candidates.

WEEKENDS - EXTENDED OPPORTUNITIES!!!

Playgroups are FREE        *Additional farm & pumpkin patch activities at a cost, see their websites for details.

Here’s a wonderful opportunity to honor someone you love with a community gift of early childhood learning!!!  Visit the Children’s Desk at the Ludington Library to fill-out a dedication slip and make your donation before SEPTEMBER 7, 2012.  Or you can  download the flyer below, and mail it with your check made out to the GREAT START COLLABORATIVE to Paula Jarvis, 2130 W. US 10, Ludington, MI 49431.

Sponsorhip flyer – discovery kits

The Great Start Collaborative of Mason, Lake and Oceana Counties work to assure a coordinated system of community resources and support to help all families in our tri-county area provide a great start for their children from pre-birth to age five. Here are some of our most recent accomplishments:

• Baby Pantries
• Newborn/New Parents Program
• KID’S HUB
• ChildCare Commitment Awards
• ASQ Community
• Family Friendly Business Initiative
• Playgroups (offered/funded through the Great Parents Great Start program)

Click on the tabs above to find out more about who we are and our programs and services!

Thanks, GSPC – Oceana members, for helping to hand out crayon packs at the Asparagus Festival parade on Saturday.  What a lovely day!

from left: Tonya Ransom & Dan Bathrick of Snyder's Shoes, GSC Director Paula Jury Jarvis, Dr. Jennifer Branning of West Shore Eye Care, Kathy Maclean with the Ludington & Scottville Area Chamber of Commerce, GSC Parent Liaison Lexi Alvesteffer (not pictured: Pizza Barn Plus of Scottville)

Congratulations to our premiere CHAMPIONS for Families!

These businesses and employers exemplify keeping families first in how they do business and treat their parent employees.  Way to Go Champions!!!

Click on the Family Friendly Link above to nominate your favorite Family Friendly Employers and Businesses.

As proclaimed at the Ludington City Council meeting, May 7, 2012:

“Now Therefore, I, John Henderson, Mayor of the City of Ludington, do hereby proclaim Wednesday, May 16^th, 2012, as Star Power Day in the City of Ludington and urge all citizens to recognize the importance of the time and investment we put into the children of our community.”

GSPC Gazette May 2012:  Click to see how our parents are leading the way!

View our New shared promotion with the Great Start North group!