In 2005, the Early Childhood Investment Corporation (ECIC) was founded to lead Michigan's Great Start Initiative. During 2006-07, the first 21 Great Start Collaboratives were funded, including Ottawa County. To learn more about the history of this state-wide initiative click here.  For a map of the Great Start Collaboratives in Michigan click here.

Since 2007, the Great Start Collaborative and Parent Coalition of Ottawa County has been a partnership of local stakeholders and parents who are committed to establishing and maintaining a comprehensive early childhood system that addresses all factors that influence a child’s readiness for school and life. The Collaborative’s core responsibilities include:

• Engaging parents, schools, businesses, faith based organizations and other stakeholders in the planning, implementation and coordination of services to support the healthy development of children ages 0-5 and their families.
• Promoting community awareness of early childhood issues.
• Advocating for quality early childhood programs and services.

Members of the Great Start Collaborative and parent Coalition just completed their new 3-year Strategic Plan. To the view the plan click here.

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Why is Great Start so important?  Watch this short 3-minute video!!!!

Brain Hero

In 2009, ECIC launched 10 Great Start Regional Child Care Resource Centers across the state.

The network of Great Start Regional Child Care Resource Centers coordinate supports and services for child care providers across settings, and for families who use child care.  

• For parents, the Great Start Child Care Quality Project offers "one-stop shopping" when looking for quality child care and early-learning environments through Great Start CONNECT. Parents can also find local supports and services through their Great Start Regional Child Care Resource Center.

• For early childhood professionals, Great Start CONNECT creates a statewide Professional Development Registry, where training can be accessed and tracked.

For Great Start To Quality trainings click here.