United Way is the Way to Youth Opportunity
The first six years of a child’s life are critical for their brain development. During this time, environmental factors significantly influence their health, learning abilities, behavior, and future productivity. Although families, caregivers, and communities play a crucial role, there are gaps in the opportunities and resources available to support early childhood development.
Our Strategy
United Way supports parents, caregivers, and communities to create early learning opportunities for young children in Marshall County.
At United Way, we take a comprehensive approach to enhance early childhood development. We provide training for families, teachers and caregivers; ensure access to nutrition and healthcare; improve childcare center quality and access; and advocate for corporate practices and public policies that prioritize investment in early childhood development.
Our Programs
Additional Resources
Indiana’s Build, Learn, Grow scholarship program is providing assistance to pay for a portion of before- or after-school care or early childhood education for qualified families.
Scholarships cover up to 80% of a child’s early care and education, summer learning or before- and after-school care, ensuring families can connect to the care and education children need. Families with at least one adult working in an essential business are encouraged to apply, regardless of their income. The amount of assistance provided will be based on the family’s income.
NOTE: The period for new applications has closed for now.
The following Marshall County programs are participating:
Learn more at Brighter Futures Indiana.
The Marshall County Head Start is now enrolling Preschool students ages 3-5. Learn more HERE.
On My Way Pre-K awards grants to 4 year olds from low-income families so that they may have access to a high-quality pre-K program the year before they begin kindergarten. Families who receive a grant may use the grant at any approved On My Way Pre-K program in our area. See if your child is eligible for On-My-Way Pre-K in Marshall County for the next school year!
WNIT will be joining other Michigan public television stations by adding the Michigan Learning Channel (MLC) on channel 34.5. While this is a Michigan program, the programming will also be available for Marshall County viewers.
The Michigan Learning Channel seeks to ensure accessibility to all students, educators and families. The programming schedule is made available to teachers and school administrators to explore possible integration with lesson plans and can be viewed at MichiganLearning.org/schedule. A sample of the viewing schedule is also attached, as are special events and virtual activities for the coming summer.