Early On Michigan Foundation
About Us
Established in 2011, the Early On® Michigan Foundation enhances the supports available to Michigan families of infants and toddlers with special needs. The Foundation operates primarily to provide grants to Early On Michigan programs to support families of eligible young children.
Contact
Questions regarding the Early On Michigan Foundation? Contact Christy Callahan at EarlyOnFoundation@gmail.com or call 517-668-0185.
Purpose
The Early On Michigan Foundation aims to strengthen Early On Michigan's capacity to serve infants and toddlers with developmental delays or established conditions and their families who are eligible under Part C of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (to learn more about Early On Michigan, visit www.1800EarlyOn.org). Through education, information sharing, fundraising, and grant-making, the Foundation raises awareness about the need for state funding and continued investment in Michigan's early intervention system, Early On.
The Foundation disburses grant funds to Early On programs with the aim of enhancing the quality of service provision and supporting improved outcomes for eligible infants and toddlers and their families. Foundation funds are raised through a range of activities including special events, philanthropic grants, direct contributions, corporate sponsorship, and sales of resources and/or materials.
History
In spring of 2011, the Early On Michigan Foundation established an interim founding Board of Directors, filed Articles of Incorporation, approved operating bylaws, and submitted an application to become a non-profit 501(c)3 organization. In the fall of the same year, the IRS granted 501(c)3 tax exempt status to the Foundation as a public charity.
Activities
Working with early childhood and education partners, the Early On Foundation informs leaders, policymakers, and the general public about the importance of early intervention and the need for investment.
Upon raising funding adequate to meet its primary purposes, and as funding allows, the Foundation provides grants in several areas, including, but not limited to: Direct Service Provision, Public Awareness and Outreach, Research-Based Practices, Personnel Training, and Family Involvement. Funds will be granted to service providers and others committed to enhancing the provision of services or increasing the number of eligible infants and toddlers served, according to the criteria set by the Foundation Board of Directors.
