Social Activities

Connecting with friends, family, neighbors and community members builds positive relationships and a network of support for families and children alike. Parents can support the social and emotional development of their children by engaging with others in fun ways.

These activities are offered in partnership with local organizations committed to CLEO.

Let’s gather to play, share and laugh together!

Community Picnic

Come together with local families and CLEO partners for a fun, family-friendly gathering.

  • Tuesday, June 17, 2025

  • NEW! Location: Central Lake Elementary School

  • Contact Britny Tollstam, 231-218-8836 or Danielle Rosenow, 231-632-8837

Spring Family Adventure

Join the Great Start Family Coalition for a weekend afternoon Family Adventure at the North Street Trail in Central Lake. No cost to attend!

  • Saturday, April 12 from 3:00-4:30 p.m.

  • Meet Family Coalition parent leaders Bridgette and Sarah at the trail head on the west side of North Street in downtown Central Lake (there is no physical address) to hop on the trail and go on a family walk around the one-mile loop. There will be a rest stop for story time, light snack and a chance to complete a unique and accessible scavenger hunt. Bring water bottles, we are hoping for some great spring weather!

  • You can walk or bring strollers but know that this is a hilly trail in places.

Community Playgroup

Join other caregivers with young children every week to connect!

Make it stand out

Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.

  • Thursdays: 10:00am-11:30am.

  • First Congregational Church basement- Central Lake. (*Playgroup is not affiliated with the church. They generously donate the use of the room.)

  • Contact Britny Tollstam, 231-218-8836 Danielle Rosenow, 231-632-8837

Great Start Collaborative and Family Coalition

The Great Start Family Coalition connects families with children prenatal to age 12 who live or attend school in Charlevoix, Emmet, and Northern Antrim counties (including Central Lake). They gather for family friendly events and share parenting tips, tricks, and community resources. They also build friendships and share stories to help create a stronger early childhood system in Northern Michigan. Most importantly, they have a lot of fun. Check out the Family Coalition!

Meetings are held monthly, from 11 a.m. - noon, via Zoom. You can log on at 10:45 to “Chill & Chat” with other Family Coalition members. Register here to join!