Children & Youth

Our Goal:
All our children have access to the social supports needed to thrive and achieve their highest potential. Children enter school ready to learn, succeed, and aspire. Our youth are valued, respected, and have a voice in community affairs.

Our communities have many positive resources for children and families: support services are available, community centers provide gathering places, our neighborhoods are safe, and our teachers and schools are top-notch. It is vital to the health and well-being of our children and our communities that we ensure these support systems are strong and accessible to all.

One crucial element that must receive maximum attention is the early childhood experience. Over the past few decades, the trend has been toward more single-parent families and families with dual wage-earners. In Hancock County, both parents work in 68% of two-parent households, and 80% of single parents work. As a result, many children are spending significant amounts of time in childcare away from their parents. Because 90% of brain and neurological development occurs during the first three years of life, early experiences have a profound impact on a child’s ability to learn and succeed in life. One study of a Michigan preschool program showed that every dollar spent on quality childhood education save $7.00 in later costs to society.

It is also extremely important to provide young people with opportunities to engage meaningfully in their communities. We can create better environments for our young people by making certain they feel respected and heard, ensuring that adults serve as positive role models and allies to young people, and by providing real opportunities for youth to use their skills and perspectives to serve their communities.

Healthy Acadia is pleased to support the following efforts promoting positive child and youth development: The Greater MDI Communities for Children & Youth coalition, the MDI High School and School Union 98 Service Learning initiative, the MDI High School Sustainable Agriculture Project, and more. Please contact us for more information.