Star Power is the day early childhood advocates spend at the capitol talking with and educating their Michigan legislators about the importance of early childhood issues, and the difference quality early childhood experiences make in young children’s lives.
 
Sorting packets, stuffing folders, folding t-shirts, opening tiny plastic star shaped sunglasses, and opening blinking stars, is not exactly what I pictured myself doing when I started at the Early Childhood Investment Corporation. If I wanted to be a party planner I would have stuck to that cupcake business idea I had after the dinosaur themed birthday party and the Nancy Drew mystery party. Sure you may know me as the person to contact if you have a question about child care quality; I am also the person to contact if you need help opening tiny star shaped sunglasses in tiny, sealed, plastic, slippery bags.
 
But seriously, my role helping with “party planning” is but a small piece of the puzzle for a successful Star Power. The behind the scenes prep from ECIC staff and volunteers are essential to make Star Power run smoothly for participants. The moment I talk with parents who are excited their voices were heard, never before did they think talking with their legislators and telling their stories was possible, makes it all worth it. The parents realize they have power and together the power grows. Star Power generates this kind of excitement and I am happy to be a part of the excitement, even if it means opening the tiny star shaped sunglasses (the kids love them).  I enjoy the excitement Star Power generates in the office too, and I am pretty good at party planning.
 
I will do my small part to make Star Power a success, and the success also rests with you. Learn more about early childhood issues, connect with other parents, tell your story, put a blinking star  on your child (then think of me) and make a difference. See you at Star Power!