Exciting developments are underway in Oceana County as the new Oceana Community Education Center prepares to open its doors this fall. The project, led by West Shore Community College, is transforming the former Gale's IGA market in Hart into a community-focused facility that will bring education, workforce development and support services together under one roof.

For Michigan Works! West Central, this new center represents more than a change of address. It reflects a growing commitment to making workforce services more accessible, convenient and connected to the communities we serve. Michigan Works! West Central will relocate its Shelby office into the facility and help staff the front desk, creating a welcoming first stop for residents seeking employment, training, education and supportive services.

"The Oceana Community Education Center represents the future of workforce development. When education, employment services, community resources and support systems come together in one place, we create more opportunities for individuals and families to succeed," said Shelly Keene, CEO at Michigan Works! West Central. "We are excited to be part of a partnership that will help remove barriers, strengthen our local workforce and expand access to the services people need to build brighter futures."

The vision behind the Oceana Community Education Center is simple: Make it easier for people to access the resources they need to improve their lives and careers. The facility will bring together a variety of organizations and services, including workforce development, higher education, food-access programs, community action services, educational support and a local coffee shop. By housing these services in a single location, residents can address multiple needs during one visit.

The facility will also include office space, meeting rooms, a computer classroom and conference areas that can support learning, professional development and employer-led training initiatives.

The new location will be owned by West Shore Community College, and house the Lakeshore Food Club, the Michigan Dyslexia Institute, Mid Michigan Community Action Agency and Stella's Coffee House. The college also will hold classes in the new center.

"Every day, we meet individuals who are working to improve their lives through education, training and meaningful employment," Keene said. "This new facility creates a welcoming space where people can take those next steps with the support of trusted partners. We're proud to join this collaborative effort to help more residents achieve their goals and realize their potential."

The project was inspired in part by studies that identified a need for additional workforce training opportunities in Oceana County. By creating a centralized hub for education and employment services, community leaders hope to make those opportunities more accessible to local residents and businesses.

This collaborative approach aligns closely with the mission of Michigan Works! West Central. Success in workforce development depends on partnerships, and the new center demonstrates what can be accomplished when organizations unite around a shared vision for economic growth and community prosperity.

As the anticipated opening approaches, the Oceana Community Education Center stands as an investment in the future of Oceana County. The facility will provide residents with easier access to education, training, employment resources, and community support services in a modern, conveniently located setting.

Be sure to watch our social media pages for updates on the opening date for our new Hart service center.