2010 Promising Projects — Enhancing the Lives of Children and Their Families

First Steps is leading a systems building initiative developed by parents, community agencies, business leaders, healthcare providers, educators, and local foundations on behalf of the 46,000 young children ages 0-5 in Kent County. As context for this effort, the development of a highly skilled work force is a top priority for policymakers and business leaders in Michigan as they seek to rebuild the state's economy. However, a long-term factor critical to that development often is missing from the discussion: the health, early education, and general wellbeing of our youngest residents. Research tells us that an investment in a child's early years pays off for the whole community in higher graduation rates, a better-trained work force, a reduction in crime, and lower welfare dependency.

There are numerous evidence-based early childhood programs and services in Kent County, provided by government agencies, schools, human service organizations, and health care organizations. However, without a system to connect them, children and families do not get the comprehensive support they need. There is unnecessary duplication and there are service gaps so significant that many of the most disadvantaged children receive no services at all. First Steps has become the independent, objective organization entity that, in collaboration with community stakeholders, sets and advances the agenda and priorities for early childhood education and care in Kent County.

After completing extensive literature reviews, stakeholder interviews, and the convening’s of a committed group of community leaders including critical input from parents, the Health Department of Northwest Michigan has launched The Early Childhood Mental Health Initiative - an effort to find a financially sustainable approach to increased mental health services for young children.

Charlevoix and Emmet counties are located in a federally designated medically underserved area of the state. Designed to build upon the community’s current assets to address gaps in services and family supports, The Early Childhood Mental Health Initiative is expected to point a way forward on improving early detection and service delivery to northern Michigan families facing the prospect of developmental and learning disabilities, and other mental health challenges.