Morning Matters

Join us for informal conversations that connect decision makers with the early childhood community. Share your experiences, discuss policy impacts, and help shape a stronger future for Kent County families.

What is Morning Matters?

Morning Matters is a series of coffee conversations that bring decision makers together with early childhood professionals, advocates, and community members. These informal sessions create meaningful dialogue about how policy decisions impact children, families, and the professionals who serve them.

  • Our Goal: Strengthen relationships between policymakers and the early childhood community to create better outcomes for Kent County families.
  • The Format: Think coffee shop conversation, not formal presentation. Each 60-minute session includes introductions, story sharing, and open dialogue over coffee.

What to Expect:

  • Informal coffee shop setting
  • Opportunity to share your professional experiences and insights
  • Open dialogue with local decision-makers
  • Networking with fellow early childhood advocates
  • Follow-up resources and continued engagement opportunities

Morning Matters grew out of our "Vision Forward" convenings, where we brought together early childhood professionals, advocates, and community leaders to discuss how policy changes impact Kent County families. Through advocacy training with Michigan's Children and the Michigan League for Public Policy, power mapping workshops, and community input sessions, we identified the need for ongoing dialogue between the early childhood community and elected officials.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Who should attend? Early childhood professionals, advocates, parents, and anyone interested in strengthening early childhood policy in Kent County.
  • Do I need to prepare anything? No formal preparation required. Come ready to share your experiences and engage in conversation.
  • What if I can't attend all sessions? Each session is standalone—attend whichever sessions work for your schedule and interests.
  • How do I know which elected officials will be at each session? Check our calendar for session details, including featured elected officials and focus topics.
  • Is there a cost to attend? All Morning Matters sessions are free, with coffee provided.

Questions about Morning Matters? Contact Daniel VanderMolen.

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