Learning isn't limited to the classroom. Broadened horizons; opportunities to create and discover; seeing new and different perspectives; interacting with diverse populations and environments: these experiences shape and mold young minds, stimulate creativity and increase the desire to learn.
Grand Rapids Community Foundation offers these programs that give young people opportunities for new and different experiences.
- Youth Enrichment Scholarship (YES) Program gives students from Grand Rapids Public Schools access to summer learning and fun, and provides an extra incentive for them to continue learning after high school. Students are selected to be part of YES when they are in the fourth grade. Each summer until they enter high school, YES students receive financial support to participate in summer camp or enrichment activities, and they are paired up with an adult mentor who supports them along the way. This gives the students the freedom to explore their interests from engineering to horseback riding, art, astronomy, and much more. YES students who graduate from high school are offered a renewable $1,500 college scholarship.
- Access Camps gives West Michigan summer camps the opportunity to apply for grants to increase access to overnight camping experiences for underserved Kent County children. Camps can use the grant funding to provide scholarships, enhance programs that promote diversity or aid youth with disabilities, or address the transportation needs of campers.
To learn more about these programs please call 616.454.1751 x103.
