West Midland Family Center Time Line
A Legacy of Doing Better Together
Guided by the principle that thriving communities are built one family at a time, the West Midland Family Center (WMFC) has become a cornerstone of support, connection, and growth in western Midland County. With a mission to enhance the quality of life for each generation by providing growth and achievement opportunities within a caring environment, WMFC continues to evolve with the needs of the community, always striving to do better for the people it serves.
Founded in 1974, WMFC emerged from a vision to repurpose the closed Greendale Elementary School into a vibrant hub for the surrounding rural community. What began as a grassroots effort quickly grew into a thriving center offering night classes, social events, and youth activities. By 1989, thanks to the support of five major foundations, WMFC had transformed into a 20,500-square-foot facility with an adjacent 27-acre park, complete with ballfields, trails, and outdoor recreation areas. Another major expansion in 2000 doubled the size of the Center, adding classrooms, a second gym, computer lab, and outdoor swimming pool. These physical transformations reflect WMFC’s unwavering commitment to adapt and grow alongside the community it serves.
Today, WMFC offers a robust and inclusive range of services designed to enhance the quality of life across all ages. From licensed childcare and preschool programs to before- and after-school care, summer camps, and youth development initiatives like the College Opportunity Program, WMFC supports children and teens in reaching their full potential. Adults benefit from family support services, fitness and recreation opportunities, and educational programming, while older adults find companionship and resources through the Greendale Activity and Dining Center, provided by Senior Services of Midland County.
One of the newest and most essential roles WMFC plays is meeting basic needs through its Food and Clothing Depot, which distributes groceries, clothing, and household items to families facing hardship. Meanwhile, events like Soup with Santa and countless volunteer efforts foster a spirit of belonging and shared purpose within our community.
At our core, WMFC is defined not by our building, but by the people who walk through our doors each day. Families feel a deep sense of ownership and pride in the Center, knowing it is built with them in mind — welcoming, accessible, and deeply rooted in care. With the help of generous donors, local partnerships, and dedicated volunteers, WMFC remains steadfast in our vision of helping each community member TODAY to reach their full potential TOMRROW.