In 2024, the Youth Advisory Committee distributed funding to seven local organizations to offset the cost of visits to post-secondary educational institutions. This initiative prioritized opportunities for first-generation students in grades 6–12 from low income households, ensuring they could visit colleges and universities in person. These visits play a crucial role in helping students visualize their futures and open doors to continuing education. We are pleased to share updates on a few of these grants, provided by the recipient organizations.

For a link to the 2025 College Visit Mini Grants Application, please click here.

GR Asian Pacific Foundation/Zeeland Calling All Colors

Ten Zeeland students and their parents were impacted by this grant, which supported a visit to the University of Michigan. Photos (including one here) from the visit capture the excitement of students exploring U-M’s campus and envisioning themselves as future college attendees.

Holland High School

Holland High School used its grant to support visits to the University of Michigan and Kalamazoo College for 33 students. At the University of Michigan, students met with professors, graduate students, and undergraduates. These interactions provided valuable insights into academic programs, research opportunities, and strategies for balancing academics, extracurriculars, and social life. Special attention was given to UM’s resources for first-generation students, such as academic advising, financial aid workshops, and peer mentorship programs. At Kalamazoo College, the visit focused on the institution’s innovative academic structure and global engagement opportunities. Students gained insight into how a small, private liberal arts college fosters personal growth.

Step Up

Step Up organized visits for 41 students to Davenport University and GRCC Lakeshore, as well as a separate visit for 33 students to Hope College. Davenport University and GRCC Lakeshore provided financial aid sessions, offering students and their families an in-depth understanding of scholarships, grants, work-study programs, and student loans. Advisors provided step-by-step guidance on completing the FAFSA, emphasizing its importance in securing financial assistance. These sessions also highlighted alternative ways to manage college expenses, including payment plans, community resources, and on-campus employment opportunities. At Hope College students explored the campus and participated in discussions with financial aid advisors. The visit highlighted Hope’s supportive resources for first-generation and low-income students.