For the second time in three years, members of Livingston Educational Service Agency's Great Start Livingston team have been recognized for their outstanding service to the community through the Howell Melon Court.
This year, Great Start Livingston was selected as one of just four recipients of the 2026 Howell Melon Court recognition. In addition to the team's selection, Great Start Livingston Family Liaison Breanne Green was also individually honored with a place on this year's court.
Each year, Howell Recreation recognizes organizations and individuals who embody its mission of creating "a community where everyone has the opportunity to Play, Grow, and Belong" through exceptional service, leadership, and community involvement. The recognition reflects the impact recipients have made in helping strengthen the Howell community and surrounding areas.
The honor is especially meaningful for Great Start Livingston, as Family Liaison Lauren Weber previously served on the 2024 Howell Melon Court. With only four Howell Melon Court recognitions presented each year, having Great Start Livingston represented as both an organization and through an individual honoree is a remarkable reflection of the team's impact on children and families throughout Livingston County.
Great Start Livingston is led by Robin Schutz, who has served as the program's coordinator since 2010. Robin works alongside community partners to strengthen early childhood systems and improve outcomes for young children and their families across Livingston County. She serves on the Region 9 Perinatal Quality Collaborative, the Region 9 Child Care Coalition, and the Livingston County Community Needs Assessment Committee. She is also an active member of the Backpacks for Kids committee, helping ensure local children begin each school year with the supplies they need to succeed.
As a Family Liaison, Breanne Green partners with families, schools, and community organizations to strengthen support for young children. Since 2018, she has led the Great Start Family Coalition and helped expand access to developmental screenings and coordinated family support through Help Me Grow Livingston. She also serves on the Howell Public Schools Board of Education, advocating for children, families, and learners throughout the county.
Lauren Weber, who joined Great Start Livingston in 2023, is equally dedicated to serving the community. In addition to supporting families through her role as a Family Liaison, she serves on both the Livingston Hunger Council and the Child Abuse Prevention Council and is a member of the Howell Carnegie District Library Board.
The recognition comes after a year of change for Great Start Collaboratives across Michigan. Following statewide funding cuts, many collaboratives were forced to reduce services or seek alternative funding sources. Through strong leadership, innovative thinking, and the support of community partners, Great Start Livingston has continued to adapt while expanding opportunities and resources for children and families throughout Livingston County.
The 2026 Howell Melon Social will take place on Friday, August 8, at 6 p.m. at the Howell Opera House, where this year's Howell Melon Court recipients will be formally recognized for their contributions to the community. Hosted by Howell Recreation, the event marks the unofficial kickoff to Melon Festival season and features dinner by C.C.'s Catering, live entertainment from Twilight Tunes Dueling Pianos, raffle baskets, desserts, and the official introduction of the 2026 Howell Melon Court. Community members are invited to attend and celebrate the individuals and organizations who help make Howell and the surrounding communities such a special place. Tickets are $65 per person or $440 for a table of eight.
Whether advocating for families, connecting them with local resources, or building partnerships that strengthen early childhood systems, the Great Start Livingston team remains committed to ensuring every child has the opportunity to thrive. Their work continues to evolve alongside the needs of the community, making a lasting impact on countless children and families across Livingston County.
"If you've ever met the Great Start Livingston team, you know this honor is no surprise," remarked a colleague. "They welcome every family with kindness, take the time to understand each person's unique needs, and never stop looking for ways to better serve our community. Their passion extends far beyond the workday, whether they're volunteering, serving on local committees, or advocating for children and families. This recognition is a reflection of the impact they make every single day."