As part of our commitment to a fully thriving community, we make targeted investments through our proactive grant program towards key issues affecting the Holland/Zeeland area. These issues are informed by local data and input from stakeholders including nonprofit leaders, educators, and health professionals.
Data about student achievement in our community shows gaps in reading and math skills across all grades and increased chronic absenteeism and disengagement among middle and high school students.
In response, CFHZ distributed $102,802 in grants to three nonprofits supporting student success.
“We believe every child deserves access to opportunities to achieve their full potential,” said Yadah V. Ramirez, Director of Community Impact. “These grants invest across critical stages of a student’s development – from early childhood all the way through high school – by supporting organizations that are stepping in to help students learn and engage.”
Ready for School
Reach Out and Read Expansion
Grant amount: $46,600
To expand and enhance programming that cultivates children’s early literacy skills using the evidenced-based Reach Out and Read (ROR) model. Reach Out and Read partners with doctors and health care offices who talk with caregivers about the benefits of reading aloud as part of a well-child visit. ROR also gives free books to families to encourage them to make reading together a daily habit. This helps children start school ready to learn and with a strong foundation for success.
“This support from CFHZ makes it possible to meet families earlier and more intentionally, at a moment when small interactions have a lasting impact on a child’s development. By expanding Reach Out and Read to begin at birth and strengthening how providers support developmental needs, we are helping families build daily reading routines that support healthy development. It also deepens connections between healthcare providers, libraries, and early childhood systems across the community, creating a stronger, more coordinated support network for children and families,” said Heather Boswell, Interim Executive Director.
Ron Clark Academy Inc.
Ignite the Classroom Program
Grant amount: $40,000
To provide scholarships for ten educators at Holland Public Schools to attend the Ron Clark Academy (RCA) EXP and a year‑long cohort. This high‑energy training equips teachers with proven culture and engagement practices that help improve daily attendance and student participation in the classroom. Statewide data shows an average of 29% of students are considered chronically absent each academic year, missing 10% or more of scheduled school days. Research shows that programs like the Ron Clark Academy help teachers make learning more engaging, which in turn reduces absenteeism. Huntington Bank, a partner of the Ron Clark Academy, was instrumental in leading local efforts to bring this program to Holland Public Schools.
“Ignite the Classroom reflects our commitment to investing in local education as a key driver of workforce readiness and talent development. The program includes an immersive learning experience at the Ron Clark Academy in Atlanta and professional development training and support throughout the year to help Holland-area educators create engaging classrooms and prepare students for future success. With CFHZ’s support, teams from Holland Public Schools are strengthening engagement, culture, and consistency across their schools. This is how lasting improvement takes hold, and Huntington is proud to partner with CFHZ and our educators to make it possible,” said Lauren Davis, President, Greater Michigan Region, Huntington Bank.
Little Buds Community Club
Little Buds Club Program
Grant amount: $16,202
To support staffing for Little Buds Club’s early childhood cohorts and inclusive community programming. Little Buds focuses on small-group early learning literacy and math programs for young children and the adults who care for them. Their programs strengthen learning foundations, caregiver connections, and offer equitable access to high-quality experiences that support long-term success for students. This year, they expect to reach 260 children and 520 caregivers in the Holland and Zeeland area.
“This grant allows Little Buds Club to expand our nature-based early learning programs, offering scholarships for families with young children. Families gain access to play-based, outdoor learning experiences while also receiving guidance and resources to support their child’s development at home. By strengthening early learning, parent confidence, and family connection, this support has a lasting impact on both individual families and the broader community,” said Jenny Schlubatis, cofounder.
Click here for more information about our proactive grant program.
