A Provider- Led Model In Action

2024 marked the official launch of the Mainspring Early Care Alliance—a first-of-its-kind, provider-led initiative supporting in-home child care professionals in Kent County. Born from years of listening and partnership, Mainspring is now powered by an 11-member advisory board made up entirely of in-home child care business owners. Together, they’ve shaped a bold new model for peer support, professional growth, and community advocacy.

Over the last year, the advisory team played a critical role in turning vision into reality. Their leadership helped "operationalize" the alliance—from co-creating decision-making structures to building welcoming spaces for new providers. Advisory board member Trisha Dart took her leadership even further, becoming a governing board member for Michigan’s NAEYC, ensuring local provider voices are heard statewide.

“Through Mainspring’s network, I gained the confidence to run for a Member‑at‑Large position on the MiAEYC Governing Board—and was elected in my first year!”

— Trisha Dart, Advisory Board Member

Mainspring is also lifting up the next generation of early care leaders. Advisors Katia Cruz and Clarivel Martinez are both newer to the field of early care and education yet already bring fresh energy and perspective. Their involvement speaks to the Alliance’s commitment to supporting providers at every stage of their journey.

“Being part of the Mainspring Advisory Board and Early Care Alliance has deepened my understanding of the challenges families and providers face and equipped me to advocate for meaningful change. I look forward to continuing our collective efforts to make a lasting impact.”

— Katia Cruz, Advisory Board Member

As Mainspring moves into its second year, plans include expanding membership; launching a toolkit developed by its members for future and current home-based providers; increasing the number of business expert seminars and deepening community partnerships to broaden impact across the county and Michigan. As Mainspring continues to grow, it’s proving what’s possible when those who care for children are trusted to lead. This is just the beginning.

MAINSPRING 2024 FAST FACTS

  •  Launch - April 17, 2024
  •  Led by 11 member licensed in-home child care business owner advisory board
  •  2 co-chairs
  •  5 priority areas
  •  35 Mainspring Alliance members
  •  15 Mainspring FCCN (Family Child Care Network) members
  •  258 business networking contact hours
  •  425 expert seminar/training contact hours
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