• Philosophy
  • Our Mission
  • Goals & Objectives
  • Values
  • Constructivism
  • Five Protective Factors
• History
• Our Staff
• Our Board
  • Board Roster
  • Strategic Plan

Leelanau Children's Center was founded when community member Elizabeth Glass learned that parents with young children had nowhere to gather and play. Elizabeth began a playgroup in the basement of the Leland Community United Methodist Church.

The playgroup grew into a morning preschool, which grew into a full day preschool, which grew into a full day preschool which then added a before and after school program. At this point, the program was stretching the capacity of the most generous Leland United Methodist Church, so with the support of the Church, a wonderful facility was constructed.

In the new facility, LCC grew into an accredited family support early childhood education program providing center-based care for toddlers and preschoolers as well as the Parenting Communities outreach program.

In 2006, LCC expanded to offer programming (outreach and center-based) in Northport. In 2009, LCC renovated and expanded the Northport building and grounds to more fully comply with safety and best practices standards. In 2010, LCC began a playground renovation in Leland and is working on plans for a Leland facility renovation. In 2011, LCC built Henry’s House, a memorial for the young Henry Eggert.

In each of the periods of growth, LCC has been guided by the following cycle:

• listen to the community,
• determine whether LCC can do a great job in responding to this community need,
• research best practices models,
• do what is right for children and families,
• DO IT!
• evaluate what we are doing and begin the cycle anew.