Great Start Collaborative
The Great Start Collaborative of Berrien County is a group of local organizations, schools, parents and community leaders working together to make sure young children (birth to 3rd grade) have the support they need to grow, learn and succeed.
Think of it as a team effort to improve early childhood health, education, and family support. They focus on things like:
- Ensuring children are healthy with access to doctors, dentists, and mental health services
- Ensuring children are on track with reading proficiency by the end of 3rd grade so they are successful in 4th grade
- Helping parents find childcare and preschool programs
- Providing resources for families, like parenting workshops and financial assistance
- Improving policies so young children get the best start in life
Our goal is to make sure every child is ready for school and life by the time they start kindergarten!
Contact Information
Jen Moody
Great Start Collaborative & Local Leadership Group Coordinator
269-471-7725 ext. 3538
Family Resources
The Family Coalition
The Family Coalition is a group of parents and caregivers who come together to help improve early childhood programs and services in their community.
They work closely with the Great Start Collaborative and getting involved is a great way to make a difference while meeting other families!
Home Visiting Programs & Other Resources
Not every parent has a big support system or knows exactly what to expect as their child grows.
Home visiting programs are free and give families one-on-one help in the comfort of their own home, making parenting a little easier and helping kids get the best start in life.
Talking is Teaching
Did you know that when you talk, read, and sing with your child, even before they can speak, you are helping them develop their brain?
Family Events
February 2026
Mon
Tue
Wed
Thu
Fri
Sat
Sun
Monday, January 26
Tuesday, January 27
Wednesday, January 28
Thursday, January 29
Friday, January 30
Saturday, January 31
Sunday, February 1
Monday, February 2
Tuesday, February 3
Wednesday, February 4
Thursday, February 5
Playgroups
Playgroup - Watervliet -- alternate location!
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*** FEB Only -- Watervliet Free Methodist Church
Friday, February 6
Saturday, February 7
Sunday, February 8
Monday, February 9
Tuesday, February 10
Wednesday, February 11
Thursday, February 12
Friday, February 13
Saturday, February 14
Sunday, February 15
Monday, February 16
Tuesday, February 17
Wednesday, February 18
Thursday, February 19
Friday, February 20
Saturday, February 21
Sunday, February 22
Monday, February 23
Tuesday, February 24
Wednesday, February 25
Thursday, February 26
Friday, February 27
Saturday, February 28
Sunday, March 1
Calendar & Category Legend:
- Playgroups Playgroups