Our Youth Grant Committee has awarded more than one million dollars to local nonprofits supporting programs for youth. Approximately $45,000 in grants is available annually.

Additionally, our regional affiliate foundations have YGCs in Ionia, Hudsonville-Jenison Sparta and Wyoming.

The YGC is comprised of public, private and home-schooled high school students from the greater Grand Rapids area. During the school year, members meet and assess youth issues, develop a request for proposals process to address those needs, follow up with previous grantees, conduct interviews and site visits and present grant recommendations to the Foundation's Board of Trustees.

The Challenge Scholars Dream Fund supports projects that benefit students and graduates of Union High School in the classes of 2020-2028. These grants create strong relationships or supportive transitions, encourage high quality teaching and learning, build financial stability for students or encourage community-led, mutually accountable systems. If you are a Challenge Scholar, a parent, a teacher or a community partner, these grants are for you.

Access Camps was established through the estate of Mary Ives Hunting and the Youth Enrichment Fund. It is designed to improve equitable access for academic, social and recreational opportunities. This funding is directed to day and overnight camp programs serving Kent County youth, with emphasis on those that have an inclusive and welcoming experience for youth of color, youth who identify as LGBTQ+ and youth with disabilities.