Join a focus group this May to help shape early learning and outdoor programs
Olmsted County Public Health Services (OCPHS), in partnership with Mayo Clinic and Early Head Start of Olmsted County, is looking for parents of young children to participate in a focus group during the month of May. The discussions will explore parents’ experiences with reading to their children and spending time in nature to support early learning and development.
This opportunity is for Black or African American parents or caregivers living in Olmsted County who have at least one child between the ages of 0 and 8.
Focus group sessions will take about 45 to 60 minutes. Participants will receive payment for their time, a free meal during the session, and free on-site childcare.
Through these focus groups, participants will share what types of learning or outdoor opportunities they would like to see offered in the future. They will also be able to share what barriers keep them from participating. Insights from the sessions will help shape programs that are welcoming, accessible, and reflective of community needs.
Details about focus group sessions
Parents do not need to live near a session location or have children enrolled at that site to participate.
Date/time: May 12, 2026, from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m.
Location: Empowerment Center, 930 40th Street NW, Suite 130, Rochester
For parents who have one or more children who are 0-8 years old.
Date/time: May 18, 2026, from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m.
Location: Northrop Community Education, Building 201 8th Street NW, Rochester
For parents who have one or more children who are 0-8 years old.
Date/time: May 28, 2026, from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m.
Location: The Place, 1026 E Center Street, Rochester
For parents who have one or more children who are 0-3 years old.
Date/time: May 28, 2026, from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m.
Location: The Place, 1026 E Center Street, Rochester
For parents who have one or more children who are 4-6 years old.
To participate or learn more, please call 507-266-4936.