Attendees included:  Debbie Akin, Katie Baliko, Brenda Greenhoe, Denise Hubbard, Christa Jerome, John Johansen, Scott Koenigsknecht, Lisa Lund, Sandy Mayes, Miranda Milett, Shelly Misner, Jyll Mitchell, Mary Peterson, David Princer, Nancy Secor, Susan Sunden, Linda Huyck, Mishawn Zudweg, Marty Combs

Review of December minutes – John Johensen moved to accept the meeting minutes – seconded by Brenda Greenhoe.  Motion carried.

Director’s and Parent Liaison Report were submitted in writing and reviewed by the membership.  Dr. K offered MAISD’s assistance for the “Dolly Parton Library” initiative.  Sue indicated the committee has a meeting next Tuesday and she will share Dr. K’s generous offer with the group to discuss next steps.

Andrea reviewed Brenda suggested that Sue contact Lori Hansen on “BUZZ”  (took place of the Buyline)- Lori Hansen (in Sheridan).  The group discussed the Star Power event – which could involve participating in the event in Lansing and/or holding a local event (invite businesses and our elected officials).  The question was asked if we could do both – which is an option.  A suggestion was made to have the local event on the Monday that the legislators are at MCC (3^rd Monday of the Month).  Another suggestion – Great Starts Collaborative could sponsor the lunch – and bring children in for that timeframe.  The Executive Committee was asked to discuss a plan to bring back to the group at the next meeting. 

Kid’s Count Data – Andrea to talk with Rex to ask that he develop a summary that could be included in a press release sent on behalf of the Collaborative. 

Vital Needs Committee– Denise shared that the United Way has focused their efforts to assure that programming that they fund are making a difference in committees. This is a two-county workgroup (Montcalm/Ionia) to start looking at vital/basic needs and changes that would create impact.  The needs are growing exponentially – with limited funding.  First thing the group did was to hold a summit (October 2009 with approx. 80 attendees) to discuss the issues.  At the summit- people signed up to have community conversations through to get more information from those affected to determine issues and potential ways to address the issues. The next step is to have an action event (possibly April 29^th, 2010) to determine what needs to happen in Montcalm County.  The members completed a survey that was distributed by Denise, which asked whose responsibility it is to assure that vital/basic needs are met.    

Census:  County Children – Lisa Lund shared that the Human Service Collaborative is focusing on how to assure that all persons are counted – as the population numbers can be helpful to get resources into the county.  Lisa shared a handout that stated children under 5 are the most missed population during census counts – she encouraged all to take opportunties to educate their clients on the need to complete paperwork.  Lisa is checking to see if it is possible to print off the forms and give them to families – she will update the website once an answer is given (website is www.mhsc.info).

Work groups formed to work on Strategic Plan actions – leaders of each group gave updates to Sue, who will forward to the membership.

Denise Hubbard – free tax preparations are occurring in different areas in the county.  Call United Way 800/417-2622 for families with income less than 44,000/year who complete a simple tax return.   Locations include:  HC  F & S   Sat   8 cap Turk lake & DHS during week during the week.  Ad Hoc sites to be determined.

Denise Hubbard – In an effort to support the 211 program that will be coming to Montcalm County - Denise encouraged agencies/businesses are encouraged to offer their employees a Casual Day for $1.  Call her if you are interested in participating.

The Montcalm County Human Services Coalition has a new website www.mhsc.info – Lisa said check it out!

Dr. K – No More Sidelines (started in Muskegon County) is a movement he is working on (targeting Clinton, Ionia and Montcalm counties) starting a program to integrate children with special needs into sports activities.  The basic concept is having athletic teams practicing and playing with children with special needs.  First event is at Ionia High School at the end of February BS coach boys and girls.  Dr. K. will forward written information to Sue.  The target is to have four events the first year. 

Marty – Shared that there are parent trainings and play groups that are currently being offered in the county.  Marty will send Sue specific information to forward to the group. 

Nancy – reminded that the annual “Walk for Warmth” is occurring February 27^th at the Mt. Calvary Church in Greenville.  Each year the event raises approximately $10,000-15,000. 

Motion made to adjourn by Nancy Secor, seconded by Lisa Lund.  Motion carried. 

 Andrea Tabor