$1.77 Million in Scholarships
This year, deserving students received $1.77 million to pursue higher education.
Our Approach to Education Impact
Creating opportunities for students
Post-secondary education opens doors to careers and contributes to a stronger West Michigan. The Community Foundation is dedicated to creating an education system where a student’s race, ethnicity or first-generation status doesn't determine their ability to succeed. Through scholarships, grantmaking, advocacy and partnerships we strive to provide all students the opportunities they deserve.
About our efforts
Creating opportunities for students
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65% of scholarship recipients are first-generation college students
We recognize students who are first in their family to attend college have an extra challenging road.
Through the years
Adapting to students' needs
Our work has grown and adapted since awarding our first scholarships in 1945.
1960
With an emphasis on grants issued toward education, the Foundation issues its largest grant to date: $50,000 to establish Grand Valley State College.
2006
Recent education partnerships
The Community Foundation participates in efforts that led to launching Kent Schools Services (KSSN), which began as a pilot program to support families and students in Kent County.
2013
To increase the number of low-income, first-generation students who successfully earn a degree or vocational certificate, the Community Foundation launches Challenge Scholars.
2021
Read more about our strategy
An advisory committee guides the Community Foundation's future direction, focusing on amplifying community voice through resourcing community-led advocacy and grantmaking, and by making post-secondary education more affordable for students.
2022
A partnership with Urban Core Collective supports the Kent County Education Justice Initiative, which develops grassroots leaders and structures that support those leaders to hold education systems accountable to their constituencies.
2024
The first Challenge Scholars earn 4-year college degrees! Read their stories.
Our feature program
Challenge Scholars
For students in the graduating classes of 2020 through 2028 at Union High School, Challenge Scholars offers a way to cover the costs of education after high school. These students are attending colleges and universities across the state, and their experiences are shaping the future of our work.
INTERESTED IN SUPPORTING STUDENTS?
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Jenine Torres, CAP she/her
Development Director
English, Español
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Shaun Shira, CAP he/his
Major and Planned Gifts Director
English