Wayne County, Michigan

Head Start is a service of programs whereby children receive assistance with education, health, nutrition and literacy concerns. Ten percent of enrollees must be diagnosed with disabilities. "We are not just a preschool or day care center," stressed Richard Lower, Wayne County’s Director of Children and Family Services the office that will oversee operations for the County. "School systems love Head Start because its helps children become emotionally and socially ready to learn."

Head Start not only serves its young clients, but also extends outward to assist the families of the children. "If a Head Start parent needs a service such as health care, or employment or even housing assistance, Head Start staffers are trained to either provide that service or refer them to the right agency," said Richard Lower. "When you add in parents and other family members, our program actually will assist a total of 10,000 people."

Head Start also helps parents to become more self-sufficient, officials say. They, with the governing board and administrative staff, set policy for their own Head Start programs. Parents can also earn a GED degree or child development associate certification by being involved with Head Start.