FIRST STEPS KENT

FIRST STEPS KENT is an independent, operating 501(c)(3) community organization based in Grand Rapids that serves as the systems-level convener and administrator for early childhood services in Kent County. The organization coordinates funding, program evaluation, and community partnerships to improve health, development, and school readiness for children prenatal through age five. Over the last 2–3 years First Steps Kent has administered the Ready by Five Early Childhood Millage (renewed by voters in 2024), distributed millage funds to local providers, led a countywide parent listening initiative, and partnered with public and nonprofit agencies to scale services. In recent fiscal filings the organization reported multimillion-dollar annual revenues and program investments supporting thousands of young children and families across Kent County.