Sturgis Area Community Foundation's Youth Advisory Council (YAC) is a truly special program that offers Sturgis High School students a unique opportunity to grow and develop as leaders in their community. Through their involvement in the Community Foundation's work, YAC members gain firsthand experience in making recommendations that serve the needs of local youth and teens. Whether it's guiding grantmaking decisions or providing input on programs and initiatives, these students are making a real and lasting difference in the lives of their peers. Read on to learn more about YAC's most recent grant recipients!
St. Joseph County Great Start Collaborative - Celebrating Babies Event
The St. Joseph County Great Start Collaborative works to ensure that every child in our county has the opportunity to thrive and succeed in life. Their focus on creating a comprehensive and well-coordinated early childhood system is paying off in big ways, with children who are healthier, more engaged, and more prepared for success in life. Thanks to the Youth Advisory Council's support, the Great Start Collaborative is able to offer even more resources and support to new parents and caregivers at their upcoming "Celebrating Babies Event." This event is an excellent opportunity for pregnant moms and caretakers of children under one year to come together and receive valuable information on how to provide the best start for their young ones. To learn more about the event and how the St. Joseph County Great Start Collaborative helps families grow, check out their website, Help Me Grow St. Joe (helpmegrowstjoe.org), and their Facebook Page, St Joseph County Great Start Collaborative/ Help Me Grow St. Joe.
Sturgis Area Chamber of Commerce - 2023 Sturgis Fest Family Night
The Youth Advisory Council is thrilled to announce they will provide a notable grant to support the Sturgis Area Chamber of Commerce's 2023 Sturgis Fest. The Chamber has made it its mission to create a thriving community where everyone can prosper, and YAC is excited to be a part of that mission. Sturgis Fest is an exciting five-day event that offers something for everyone. However, what makes it truly special is their dedication to Family Night, where they ensure that children from all backgrounds can participate in the festivities, regardless of their family's financial situation. This year, YAC's grant will specifically go towards providing free carnival rides, which will have a far-reaching impact on the community's youngest members. YAC has a rich history of supporting Sturgis Fest through grants and volunteering, and is excited to continue that partnership to create accessible opportunities for local youth. Don’t miss out on the fun and excitement at this summer's Sturgis Fest! Stay up to date on the upcoming event at sturgisfestmi.com.
The Sturgis Area Community Foundation is a $30M foundation committed to serving the charitable needs of our community and enriching the quality of life for all people in the Sturgis area. Through philanthropic services, strategic investments, and community leadership, Sturgis Area Community Foundation helps people support the causes they care about now and for generations.
For more information on grants or donor services, email sacf@sturgisfoundation.org.