Where Your Child's Learning Journey Begins

A Barrier to Family Stability

A Childcare Crisis

While assisting families through Marvelous Lifestyles Outreach, Karmen Johnson noticed a recurring pattern: families were spending a significant portion of their income on childcare, often without receiving reliable, quality care.

With her financial expertise, Karmen began investigating the underlying causes. She quickly discovered that West Michigan had been grappling with a childcare crisis since 2020. Rising daycare costs, severe staffing shortages, and limited availability were preventing families from returning to work.

To gain a deeper understanding, Karmen visited eight daycare centers in Southeast Grand Rapids. She found high staff turnover, frequent closures, and lengthy waitlists. Personal experience confirmed the challenge: after six months on a waitlist, she had yet to receive a response from a single daycare.

A Solution: Reimagining Childcare

Determined to find a better solution, Karmen empathized with struggling families and envisioned a flexible space that supported thriving families. This space would prioritize staff and parents, reflect the demographic diversity of the community, and be subsidized to make high-quality childcare accessible to all.

With the approval of the Marvelous Lifestyles Outreach Board, Karmen explored grant funding options and suitable physical locations. Ultimately, she secured a space at 52nd and Eastern in Kentwood, aligning with the available resources.

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Brighter Horizons

Mental Health for Young Children

Our mental health programming, Brighter Horizons, is integrated into our daily lessons and is vital for several reasons:

Early Intervention: Identifying and addressing mental health concerns early can prevent more serious issues later in life.
Emotional Development: A supportive environment can help children develop healthy coping mechanisms and emotional regulation skills.
Social Skills: Learning to interact with peers and adults can improve social skills and reduce feelings of isolation.
Resilience: Building resilience can help children cope with challenges and setbacks.
Positive School Transitions: A strong foundation in mental health can make the transition to school smoother.
Parental Support: A mental health curriculum can provide parents with resources and information to support their child's emotional well-being.
Cultural Sensitivity: A curriculum that is inclusive and culturally sensitive can help children from diverse backgrounds feel supported and understood.

Sustainability for a Brighter Future

Cultivate The Community

Proud Partners With

At Marvelous Kidz we believe sustainability practices should not only be taught, but also lived each day. Our Cultivate The Community- Green Initiative Program focuses on:

Health and Safety: Sustainable practices often involve reducing exposure to harmful chemicals and pollutants, creating a healthier environment for children.
Cost Savings: Energy-efficient practices, waste reduction, and water conservation can lead to significant cost savings over time.
Educational Opportunities: Incorporating sustainability into daily activities can teach children about environmental responsibility and inspire them to become eco-conscious adults.
Community Impact: A sustainable daycare can set a positive example for the community and encourage others to adopt environmentally friendly practices.
Long-Term Viability: By prioritizing sustainability, a daycare can ensure its continued operation and relevance in a changing world.

Meet Our Program Director

Jessica Austin

Jessica is an AmeriCorps, MichiganHealthy Climate Corps Member. A Safety Engineer by profession, she has embarked on an entrepreneurial journey drawing upon her professional expertise. Leveraging the skills acquired in her career, she established Creative Carvings, a business dedicated to promoting healthier eating habits and sustainability.

Jessica’s background uniquely positions her to advocate for climate awareness, environmental justice, and collaborative efforts in addressing climate change within the community. She is dedicated to guiding local organizations on a transformative journey toward a carbon-neutral future. Jessica consistently engages in community feedback sessions to ensure a widespread understanding of affordable, clean energy access.