In the rural Upper Peninsula communities of Baraga, Houghton, and Keweenaw counties, BHK Child Development Board has been making a difference in the lives of Northern Michigan’s children and families for over 50 years. BHK is more than just an afterschool and summer program—it’s a sanctuary where well-being and learning come first.

BHK’s out-of-school time (OST) program, Great Explorations (GE), serves students in kindergarten through fifth grade, providing opportunities to learn and grow in a safe, enriching environment. Operating year-round, a typical day at GE is filled with a balance of structured activities and freedom to explore in ways that support students’ academic and emotional development. From healthy meals that families can count on to field trips to the Upper Peninsula Children's Museum, every moment is an opportunity for children to just be kids. 

“Play is at the heart of all our programs,” said Melissa Parker, BHK’s Out-of-School Time Director. “Children learn best when they’re engaged in play, exploring and discovering the world around them in a hands-on way. We’re providing enrichment and resources that support the whole child and their family.”

Melissa, who has been with BHK for 15 years, attributes BHK’s longevity to its dedicated staff, strong community partnerships, and trauma-informed approach to caring for the whole family.

“Many of the children who attend our programs have already faced significant challenges in their young lives,” said Melissa. “That’s why we focus on social-emotional learning and building strong relationships with children and their families. By understanding their backgrounds, we can tailor our programs to meet their unique needs. Without that partnership, we can’t do our best to help children succeed.”

Parents and caregivers are encouraged to participate in all of BHK’s programming and events, like Safety Day, which brings children and families together with local firefighters, EMTs, and law enforcement officers. In this fun relaxed environment, kids are able to learn about those jobs and meet first responders. It helps kids see them as people whose job it is to keep their community safe, not just people who show up when something is wrong.

Knowing that my children are in a safe and nurturing environment gives me peace of mind and allows me to fully focus on my own work and responsibilities.”

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In addition to afterschool and summer learning programs, BHK provides home-visiting programs from prenatal through age three, Early Head Start, and Head Start programs to ensure that every child has the healthiest possible start to life.

In testimonials, parents have shared that because of BHK, their children are more outgoing and confident, they’ve learned how to better communicate and interact with others, and they’ve gained important social and academic skills. 

“The academic support has helped my children excel in their studies, while the social opportunities have allowed them to develop important social skills and create lasting friendships. The hands-on lessons have also sparked their curiosity and fostered a love for learning,” said Katie Waara, a parent of a child in the GE program. “Knowing that my children are in a safe and nurturing environment gives me peace of mind and allows me to fully focus on my own work and responsibilities.”

“The GE staff is wonderful and caring. My child looks forward to going every day and always comes home with her homework completed and usually has a nice craft. The program allows my daughter to learn, have fun and socialize with her peers,” said another parent.

“The GE afterschool programming has truly been a game-changer for both my children's academic success and my own work-life balance,” added another GE parent. “I am grateful for the incredible asset it has been in supporting my children's well-being, providing them with enriching experiences, and giving me the reassurance I need as a parent.”

Teachers at local schools agree. A teacher at C.J. Sullivan Elementary School said, “I love how connected you are to the students and their families. They seem to love and trust you all so much.”

Learn more about how BHK Child Development is fostering kids’ well-being in the Upper Peninsula.