Mission

The Michigan National Guard Child and Youth Program (CYP) is dedicated to the well-being and operational readiness of our Force by supporting the unique requirements of military-connected families. Our mission is to foster resilience in the next generation, ensuring that both Service Members and their families remain connected and mission-ready throughout the deployment cycle and beyond. The CYP provides a comprehensive range of resources and initiatives designed to mitigate the stressors of military life and promote personal development.

Responsibilities and Services

• Deployment Support & Family Readiness: We provide specialized resources to sustain family bonds during all phases of the deployment cycle. This includes the "Deployment Box" initiative, which contains curated activities designed to maintain the connection between the Service Member and their family.

  ● Youth Leadership & Development: Our program emphasizes character, leadership, and resilience through elite initiatives like the Michigan National Guard Teen Council and various regional summer camps. These programs offer youth opportunities for personal growth and peer mentorship.

  ● Educational & Skill-Building Initiatives: We offer specialized programming to enhance cognitive and emotional development, including STEM-focused activities and Resilience Training curricula tailored specifically for youth ages 6-18.

  ● Community Engagement & Cohesion: To foster a sense of belonging and community, the CYP hosts statewide events, such as the Month of the Military Child carnival in April. These engagements allow military children to build lasting networks with peers who share their unique experiences.

  ● School & Faculty Liaison Services: CYP Coordinators assist parents in bridging the gap between military life and the classroom. We provide comprehensive guides and formal letter templates to help parents notify educators of upcoming deployments, ensuring schools are equipped to support the student’s emotional and behavioral need

Contact Information

Madison Dean
Lead State Child and Youth Coordinator
madison.m.dean5.ctr@army.mil
Cell: 517-582-9280

Marcia Morehead
Child and Youth Program Coordinator
marcia.r.morehead.ctr@army.mil

Resources