The State of Michigan's Department of Education has awarded funding to 11 out-of-school time (OST) programs in Grand Rapids, Michigan. This funding, totaling $50 million, will have a significant impact on the lives of children and youth in the community.
The Michigan Department of Education, in collaboration with the Michigan Department of Lifelong Education, Advancement, and Potential (MiLEAP) and the Michigan Afterschool Partnership (MASP), organized information sessions across the state to increase awareness of the MI OST Grant opportunity. The Grand Rapids Expanded Learning Opportunities (ELO) Network, in partnership with MDE and MASP, piloted the first in-person information session at City Hall on September 7.
"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 ELO Network Chair-Elect. "The ELO Network is dedicated to collective impact not only in theory, but in practice when youth-serving organizations advocate for funding and work together to ensure every young person in Grand Rapids has access to high quality programs."
The ELO Network, managed by Our Community's Children, is a collective of out-of-school time providers committed to delivering high-quality youth programming throughout the Greater Grand Rapids area. With the funding secured, these programs will be able to provide extended learning and enrichment opportunities before school, after school, and during the summer.
The funding received by the Grand Rapids OST programs is part of a $50 million budget allocation for out-of-school time programs across the state. In total, nearly 130 youth-serving organizations in Michigan have been awarded grant dollars to support their crucial work.
This funding underscores the critical need for increased investment in out-of-school time programs. These programs play a vital role in the development and education of children and youth, providing a safe and nurturing environment where they can learn, grow, and thrive.
With the support of the State of Michigan, these Grand Rapids OST programs will be able to make a lasting impact on the lives of the community's young people. By offering high-quality programs and opportunities, they will help ensure that every child has access to the resources they need to succeed.
The funding awarded to the 11 out-of-school time programs in Grand Rapids is a testament to the dedication and hard work of the ELO Network and its member organizations. By advocating for funding and working together, they have demonstrated the power of collective impact and the importance of collaboration in creating positive change.
As the funding begins to be utilized, the Grand Rapids community can look forward to a brighter future for its children and youth. These programs will provide a safe and supportive environment where young people can learn, grow, and thrive, setting them up for success in the years to come.
Click this link to access more information: https://www.grandrapidsmi.gov/Our-City/News-Media/Grand-Rapids-out-of-school-time-organizations-secure-State-funding
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