Contact

11172 Adams Street
Holland, MI 49423
616.396.7566
800.577.7661 (toll-free)
mail@lifeservicessystem.org

How We Got Here.

Although its focus has evolved, since 1983, Life Services has always followed its mission to improve and strengthen the West Michigan community. Here's our journey, so far:

1983

LIfe Services System (LSS) begins as a state funded 3 year pilot in Ottawa County to reduce duplication and overlap in the delivery of services for people with disabilities.

1984

Logo Contest - "Brings Reality" and highlights interagency efforts to improve services for adults with handicaps through Life Services System.

1986

State pilot funding ends - local, county and private agencies utilize Life Services System to coordinate services for special education students in transitioning from school to work.

1988

Director of Life Services System, Deanna DePree, wins the Holland Chamber's Distinguished Service Award.

1989

Life Services System formally established as non-profit (501-C3). LSS begins coordination of "as risk infants and toddlers." Area hospitals assess every infant born at their hospital. Infants and families in need are referred to appropriate agencies.

1993

LSS establishes Communities in Schools of Ottawa County, linking hands in need with hands that can help through local school sites.

1994

Life Services Transportation System begins. Adults in Ottawa County with disabilities are provided transportation to and from work.

1995

The U.S. Department of Education designates LSS as Michigan's Parent Information Resource Center.

1996

LSS Transportation System expanded to include Project Zero Mothers. Over 100,000 rides provided annually.

1999

Life Services System becomes the state office for Parents As Teachers.

2000

Life Services System's AmeriCorps Volunteers wins Governor's Service Award.

2002

Life Services System moves to a larger facility at Adams and Country Club Road.

2003

Life Services System receives a $225,000 challenge grant from the Kellogg Foundation to develop a 15,000 sq. ft. barrier free innovative play environment.

2005

Development of Deanna's Playhouse continues. Partnerships with area businesses brings Imagination Village and Creative Arts area to life.

2007

Fatherhood Initiative begins. Life Services, Parents As Teachers, and Dept. of Human Services project emphasizes the important role of fathers.

2008

Life Services Parent Center linking with Early Head Start and Child Development Services to reach out to more Holland area families.

2009

Collaboration with Faith Based Organizations to enhance Parents As Teachers program to local families.