Frequently Asked Questions

Inside a Lansing classroom during a reading of a pirate story

Who is the Michigan Head Start Association (MHSA)?

The Michigan Head Start Association (MHSA) is a private, non-profit corporation and the only state organization that exclusively serves and supports the Michigan Head Start community. We represent more than 35,000 children and their families, 55 Early Head Start grantees, 64 Head Start grantees and two Migrant and Seasonal Early Head Start grantees statewide. Governed by an 19-member board of directors, the association represents its members at the state, regional and national level. Organized in 1967 and incorporated in 1988, we provide leadership, training and advocacy for Head Start agencies statewide.

How do I find a Head Start program near where I live?

You can easily reach a program in your area by visiting our easy-to-use Program Locater which is organized by county and in the case of larger counties such as Wayne County by zip code. The MHSA, itself, is a membership organization and does not operate Head Start programs.

How are programs funded?

Every year, millions of low-income children from birth through age five benefit from the array of federal early learning and care programs. Each is governed by specific legislative and regulatory requirements; targets different age groups; and serves families in a variety of settings, including home visiting and home- and center-based opportunities. Together, they form an effective mixed-delivery system supporting the care, education, and healthy development of children living in poverty that prioritizes parental choice and children’s individual needs.

Learn more about the ABCs of Federal Early Learning and Care Funding Streams.

How do I become active in the Michigan Head Start Association?

Whether you choose to volunteer to gain additional leadership opportunities, build your resume, network and make new friends, or just give back to the community, the MHSA relies on you to help support the association community. Read below to discover the many ways you can gain meaningful experiences, and become part of and contribute to MHSA. To volunteer, simply contact us from this website.

  • Learn. Grow professionally by attending MHSA’s Assemblies, Conferences and Trainings to remain current in topics relevant to Head Start and Early Head Start. Take advantages of these opportunities to learn of new initiatives and best practices from your colleagues.
  • Network. Participate in MHSA events and social media to expand your connections. Attend events. Join us on Facebook and Twitter!
  • Speak. Answer our call for proposals. Submit your ideas for a session to share your expertise with your colleagues at an Assembly or Conference.
  • Influence. Become an advocate by communicating with your elected officials on issues of importance for the Head Start community.
  • Support. Help grow and support the association community by letting your colleagues know about the great resources MHSA has to offer.
  • Become a Sponsor. Gain more exposure and support MHSA by becoming a sponsor at one of our events. Use this opportunity to distribute samples of products to likely users.

What are the benefits of joining the Michigan Head Start Association?

  • Membership ensures discounted rates for a plethora of annual conferences, assemblies and training programs.

  • Members are kept informed of trainings, public policy and general information through electronic communications/listserv. In addition, you have access to the MHSA website and information related to delivery of Head Start programs across Michigan.
  • MHSA provides leadership and advocacy at the state and federal levels for the Michigan Head Start community. MHSA works collaboratively with departments, legislative bodies and administrations to create equal opportunities for all Head Start children, families and programs to succeed. In addition, MHSA participates in a number of advocacy coalitions interested in the delivery of quality services to children and families.
  • MHSA collaborates with a variety of organizations interested in supporting Head Start, national and regional Head Start Associations, training organizations, public interest groups, and charitable corporate sponsors, as well as experts in the early childhood field. This brings the Head Start community extra benefits and support in the form of special offers, trainings, discounts and advertising.

How is the Michigan Head Start Association funded?

As a professional membership organization, the MHSA operates on the dues paid by member agencies and revenues generated by the association's professional development programs. MHSA receives no government funding.

Where is the Michigan Head Start Association?

The Michigan Head Start Association office is located at 808 W. Lake Lansing Road, Suite 205, East Lansing, Mich. 48823. Phone: (517) 374-6472. However, we operate across the state and set our assembly and conference sites in a variety of geographic areas in Michigan to best reach our statewide members.