Every Tuesday evening at the Early Childhood Learning Center on West North Street, something beautiful happens. Parents gather for dinner, children play in supervised care, and families connect over shared experiences of raising young children.
Great Start Shiawassee’s Family Coalition represents a community-wide commitment to giving every child the foundation they need to succeed. Through programs like Parent Cafe, literacy initiatives, and educational workshops, they’re ensuring that Owosso’s youngest residents—and their families—have support.
The coalition’s reach extends far beyond their meeting space:
- The Dolly Parton Imagination Library puts free books in the hands of children from birth to age five
- Bus Book Buckets place reading materials on school bus routes, turning commute time into learning time
- Touch-A-Truck events bring wonder to little ones fascinated by big machines
Upcoming programs address modern parenting challenges head-on. “Staying Safe in a Virtual World” helps parents navigate technology, while “Challenging Stereotypes: Poverty 101” builds community understanding and compassion.
“Grow Into Reading Kids Night” brings families together around literacy, recognizing that a love of reading opens doors throughout life.
What makes Great Start special is its understanding that supporting children means supporting entire families. By providing resources, connection, and education to parents and caregivers, they’re strengthening the fabric of the whole community.
Location: 114 W North St, Owosso, MI 48867