News and Blog /

Grand Rapids Programs Part Of $50M Grants To Serve Kids, Teens Outside Of School

Eleven programs in Grand Rapids will see a big boost thanks to funding from the State of Michigan.

The Michigan Department of Education awarded $50M to 130 organizations across the state to serve the youth in their community.

“This investment is critical to realizing the positive youth outcomes we want to see in this community,” said Christy Knetsch, executive director of New City Kids: Grand Rapids and Expanded Learning Opportunities (ELO) Network Chair-Elect.

Here’s a list of Grand Rapids programs benefitting from the funding:

  • Baxter Community Center*
  • Bridge Street Ministries*
  • Camp Blodgett*
  • Grand Valley State University*
  • New City Kids*
  • Oakdale Neighbors
  • Refugee Education Center
  • STEM Greenhouse*
  • The Edge Urban Fellowship
  • The Other Way Ministries
  • YMCA – by way of State Alliance of YMCAs*

*Indicates an ELO Network member program.

Read Full News Story

More Blog and News Stories

What a night to remember! We want to thank all of our Westside neighbors who joined us this August for our annual Neighborhood Block Party. Your smiles, laughter, and energy made the evening truly special.
Because of your generosity, our second quarter was full of hope, growth and record breaking impact. Here are a few highlights! Earlier this year our Youth Employment Services program was at risk, but, thanks to your incredible support we were not only able to run the program, but expand the number of participants.
On July 25 and 26, our Other Way Ministries Youth Culture Club had the incredible opportunity to step out of the neighborhood and into a celebration of heritage, flavor, and community at Festa Italiana, held at Tanger Outlets. Our youth were welcomed with open arms — receiving festa money for treats, food, drinks, and access to the Kids Corner, hosted by our friends at Grand Rapids Sister Cities International.