In the News

By Leaps & Bounds: Early Care and Education
As we continue looking at why Normal Was Never Enough, we examine pathways to building a more equitable child care system. Our guest today on

For too many Kent County children, “Normal was Never Enough”
First Steps Kent, KConnect and Well Design are collaborating in a new campaign, “Normal was Never Enough.” The campaign brings attention to childhood disparities in Kent County, what is

By Leaps & Bounds: Early Care and Education #2
As we continue looking at why Normal Was Never Enough, we examine pathways to building a more equitable child care system. Our guest today on

Strong Fathers – Strong Beginnings Manhood Monday
Salvador Lopez, President of KConnect went on Strong Fathers – Strong Beginnings Manhood Monday to spread awareness about the campaign. (at about 25 minutes) https://www.facebook.com/watch/live/?ref=watch_permalink&v=1377516456000538

By Leaps & Bounds: Advocacy for Normal Was Never Enough
We’re joined by Jayme Vosovic, Community Engagement Specialist for the Michigan League for Public Policy. In our Normal Was Never Enough series focusing on ‘getting

Shelley Irwin on WGVU – By Leaps & Bounds: Birth Equity
Marissa Brown from the Kent County Health Department is the featured guest. Here’s what we know: In Kent County, Black and Latinx infants are more

Shelley Irwin on WGVU – By Leaps & Bounds: Child Care
Child care supports parents in entering the workforce and helps to fuel our economy. For years, lack of quality, affordable child care for families, and

Shelley Irwin on WGVU – By Leaps & Bounds: Normal Was Never Enough
We’re all longing to get back to normal. But normal for whom? What has normal looked like for young BIPOC children? Discrimination, disproportionate poverty and

Shelley Irwin on WGVU – By Leaps & Bounds: Family Wealth & Income
The Grand Rapids area has become a highly desirable destination for many people due to its economic opportunities and quality of life. However, the opportunities
Press Releases

February 7, 2022
NORMAL WAS NEVER ENOUGH FOR THOUSANDS OF KENT COUNTY FAMILIES
As we all long to get back to normal, one group led by First Steps Kent, KConnect and Well Design, wants to bring attention to the local data that shows “normal was never enough” for all children and families in West Michigan.