June 2011
FROM: Irene Gunnink, Parent Liaison
St Joseph County Great Start Collaborative
As we begin a new chapter in our book of
GREAT START PARENT COALITION members,
I would like to address some of the issues we are or will be facing…
- First of all, our thanks to BRENDA MCGOWAN for her many years as our parent liaison. Many great and exciting things were accomplished under her leadership. We wish her well as she pursues a new direction in life. THANKS BRENDA FOR THE MEMORIES!!!!
- I would like to introduce myself to those who I have not yet meet … I accepted the position of parent liaison in mid-March (2011). My husband Roger and I one of those families known as grandparents raising grandchildren-kinship care. Our grandsons are 10 and 7 years old. After many years as their guardians, we are currently in the process of adoption. As an independent contractor with Commission on Aging, providing resources and support for others kinship care families in the St Joseph County area, you may have already seen the name of PARENTS AGAIN – that’s me. Both my positions with Great Start and Commission on Aging, fill my days and weeks with lots of interesting opportunities as a parent liaison.
- And now, how about our membership of parents? Our goals and directions for the coming year will be guided by all of you - - as you provide the input, inspiration and instructions. This part of the state wide Great Start Program - the PARENT COALITION – is where it all starts and ends – because it is all about OUR CHILDREN … your involvement is of great value and importance. The ultimate goal of our coalition is to provide the children of St Joseph County, our children, with best ever childhood.
Our PARENT COALITION meetings
the first Monday of each month 6-7:30 pm
Centreville United Methodist Church building/East Main St
Pizza, beverages and child care are provided
COME JOIN US !!!!!
the third Monday of each month - 11:00 am - 1:30 pm
Sturgis McDonald's - meal cards are available - come join the meeting while the children's enjoy the playground
JULY 2011 - AUGUST 2011
FAMILY PARTICIPATION PUNCH CARD
seven punches for attending = $10 local business gift card
come visit one of our meetings or events and get the details ...
(see Events & Happenings)
Irene Gunnink – Parent Liaison
St Joseph County, MI Great Start Office
62445 Shimmel Rd – Centreville MI 49032
Other Contact Information:
Cell/269-506-8195 Home/269-279-9904
Mailing: Box 116 – Centreville MI 49032
