A Bright Start in the Heart of the Northside: The Early Learning Center at Zone 32
On Kalamazoo’s Northside, the vision for Zone 32 has always been bigger than bricks and mortar. This $4.7 million redevelopment on a 1.4-acre former Brownfield site at 313 E. Frank Street is more than affordable housing—it’s a catalyst for community transformation. At the center of it all, both geographically and in spirit, is the Early Learning Center, a partnership between Bogan Developments and the YMCA of Greater Kalamazoo.
“When we began the development of this project in 2020, it was envisioned to have youth development and affordable housing,” said Jamauri Bogan, CEO of Bogan Developments. “Keeping true to that vision, we found a partner in the YMCA to do an Early Learning Center. It services our youth in the community, enhances their education outcomes, teaches them how to swim, feeds them twice a day, and provides employment to individuals within the community here in the Northside.”
Education, Care, and Community Under One Roof
The Early Learning Center serves 30 children daily, specifically recruiting from the 49007 zip code and hiring educators from the local area. It’s more than a place to learn—it’s a place to grow, to feel safe, and to be part of something bigger.
As Tim Sheldon, Association Early Learning Director at the YMCA of Greater Kalamazoo, explains: “Our Early Learning Center is a place where education, care, and community come together to create strong foundations for a lifetime of learning.”
Services go beyond the classroom:
Nutritious Meals: Healthy breakfasts, lunches, and snacks fuel growing bodies and minds.
Swimming & Physical Activity: Weekly swim lessons and active play promote physical development, water safety, confidence, and coordination.
Educational Support: Evidence-based curriculum focusing on early literacy, math readiness, and social-emotional skills prepares children for lifelong success.
Measuring Success: Kindergarten Readiness
The impact is measurable—and inspiring. This year, over 85% of graduating pre-K students demonstrated proficiency in core early learning standards, including language development, early math skills, and self-regulation.
Family engagement is a cornerstone of the program. Parents are invited to participate in special classroom visits, share their expertise, and receive resources to strengthen the connection between home and school.
Benefits That Extend to Families and Staff
Each student’s family receives a YMCA membership as part of tuition—opening the door to swim lessons, summer camps, and fitness programs at no additional cost. Staff receive similar membership benefits and access to professional development, emergency funds, and job coaching, removing barriers to stability and growth.
A Community Anchor
Bogan Developments views the Early Learning Center as an essential part of Zone 32’s success.
“Having the Y’s brand right here on Frank Street has brought much-needed energy to this side of the community,” Bogan said. “It allows our residents who are partaking in the affordability aspect of housing to also have affordability in their childcare—which is pretty unique.”
As the school year unfolds, the Early Learning Center continues to nurture curiosity, build community, and prepare children for bright futures—one small step at a time.
About Zone 32
Zone 32 is a mixed-use redevelopment in Kalamazoo’s Northside neighborhood, combining affordable housing, early childhood education, and commercial space to drive economic and social impact. It represents a long-term commitment to revitalization, equity, and opportunity.
