At Zero to Thrive, our work to promote the well-being of caregivers, parents, and children extends far beyond our roots in Ann Arbor. From supporting maternal mental health to empowering families with evidence-based programs, our mission is broad, inclusive, and continually growing. That’s why we’re thrilled to announce a major step forward in expanding our impact across Michigan.

This year, Zero to Thrive was officially invited to join the Michigan Council for Maternal and Child

Health (MCMCH) as a partnering member. This milestone aligns with our vision to build stronger systems of support for families and ensure that caregivers’ voices are part of the policy decisions that affect them.

What Is MCMCH?

Founded in 1983, MCMCH advocates for public policies that improve maternal and child health

throughout Michigan. Their work is rooted in:

• Preventative programs that start early and reduce long-term risks
• Increased access to comprehensive care for women, infants, and children
• Sustainable funding for healthcare providers and services
• Support for communities through equitable, family-centered practices

Why This Partnership Matters to Us

By joining MCMCH, Zero to Thrive gains a powerful platform to contribute our evidence-based knowledge to a state-level platform that affect families every day. Through this collaboration, we aim to:

• Elevate the importance of maternal mental health in public policy
• Help shape systems that support early childhood development
• Ensure that caregivers and parents—especially those from underserved communities—have a seat at every table where decisions are made

Our involvement helps bring real-world, evidence-based perspectives to the forefront, helping to close the gap between families’ needs and the systems designed to serve them.

Supporting Caregivers Across Michigan and Beyond

We believe that the best policies are informed by those with lived experience. Whether you're a parent,

caretaker, healthcare provider, or advocate, you are a vital part of this movement. Together, we’re working to create a more responsive, inclusive, and effective system for maternal and child health in Michigan—and far beyond.