The Great Start Parent Coalition gives parents and caregivers a chance to have a voice in a truly “grassroots” effort to advocate for children in Livingston County. The Great Start effort is founded on these core beliefs:

• All parents want their children to be healthy, safe and successful.
• Parents are their children’s first and best teachers.
• We will not be strong and effective without input from parents.

Your involvement in the Great Start Parent Coalition is valuable because early childhood programs, services and supports are designed to meet the needs of you and your child. Your voice can help shape the delivery of programs and services for young children, as well as assist state legislators, service providers and businesses to understand the importance of providing high-quality, early childhood programs for ALL children.

• If you want to increase your knowledge of resources and services available to children and families you should join.
• If you would like to build leadership and advocacy skills to benefit young children, you should join. Parents are leaders when they speak on behalf of their own children, a group of children or when speaking out for all children. Advocacy comes in all forms, not just change in legislation.
• If you are looking for a social outlet or opportunity to network with other like minded parents in Livingston County you should join. Meetings are filled with teaching experiences and problems to wrestle, with the added benefit of free child care and reimbursed mileage. Meetings are scheduled on different days and times to allow parents with various schedules to attend.