United Way's Emerging Leaders United Celebrates 5 Years of Empowering Local Nonprofits Through Microgrant Fund in West Michigan
In a testament to the power of community-driven initiatives, Heart of West Michigan United Way's Emerging Leaders United (ELU) group proudly announces the 2024 recipients of their annual Microgrant Fund. Now entering its fifth year of supporting small, local nonprofits, ELU's Microgrant Fund has positioned itself as a pathway of hope and support for organizations striving to make a difference in the West Michigan community since its inception.
Over the past five years, the Microgrant Fund has exemplified the spirit of grassroots philanthropy, distributing more than $30,000, as of 2024, to eight (8) deserving local nonprofits. These funds have served as catalysts for positive change, empowering organizations to expand their reach, enhance their programs, and make meaningful impacts on the lives of individuals and families throughout the region.
In 2024, Emerging Leaders United is honored to announce they have selected Girls Growing II Women and The Barn for Equine Learning as its Microgrant award recipients. This initiative extends beyond the funding awards and will open the door to opportunities for both organizations to get in front of emerging and young professionals throughout West Michigan for further engagement and volunteer service.
GIRLS GROWING II WOMEN
The mission of GG2W is to empower, educate and provide a support system to young ladies while helping them reach their full potential and achieve lifelong success.
Funding provided by Heart of West Michigan United Way’s Emerging Leaders United will allow Girls Growing II Women to further expand their S.I.S.T.E.R.S. Education Initiative. In 2023, Girls Growing II Women launched the S.I.S.T.E.R.S. Education Initiative, dedicated to fostering Sisterhood In Schools Thriving Everyday II Reach Success. This initiative delivers tailored programming directly to students in their schools, now including 6th, 7th, and 8th graders alongside high school students. Through a 13-week workshop series focusing on self-esteem, self-awareness, healthy relationships, internet safety, and vital life skills like coping mechanisms and leadership training, an impressive 98% improvement in student self-esteem and awareness has been achieved. Objectives encompass providing support groups, strategies for enhancing self-esteem and awareness, promoting journaling and self-analysis, offering guidance for improving mental health, and nurturing positive mindsets and character development. In 2023, over 40 students were served, and with this funding, Girls Growing II Women aims to double its impact, reaching over 85 students in 2024.
THE BARN FOR EQUINE LEARNING
Giving youth and adults the opportunity to discover new experiences, challenge themselves, and grow through the healing power of horses in a therapeutic setting.
Funding provided by United Way would be instrumental for The Barn for Equine Learning to extend its services to students from The Martin Luther King Academy, offering them opportunities to participate in summer camp activities or utilize open spaces at You Belong Here --Horsemanship for Everyone. In light of the concerning surge in anxiety, depression, compulsive behaviors, and suicidal ideation among youth, irrespective of race, income, age, or ability, it's imperative to address these challenges. Particularly in rural communities, where access to mental health resources may be limited by distance or social stigma, The Barn for Equine Learning's role becomes even more crucial. Serving as a sanctuary, fostering physical, cognitive, and emotional well-being, The Barn for Equine Learning aims to bridge gaps and provide inclusive support to meet the pressing needs of the community. With the support of United Way funding, The Barn for Equine Learning can continue to cultivate healthy and fulfilling lives for individuals of all backgrounds, abilities, and socioeconomic statuses.
"We are thrilled to celebrate the fifth anniversary of ELU's Microgrant Fund and the incredible impact it has had on our community," said Kevin Nelson, Sr. Donor Development Manager at Heart of West Michigan United Way. "Through this initiative, Emerging Leaders United has demonstrated their unwavering commitment to supporting local organizations that are working tirelessly to address pressing social challenges and create a brighter future for all."
The Microgrant Fund has provided critical support to a diverse array of nonprofits, spanning areas such as education, family crisis, homelessness, and beyond. From funding after-school programs for at-potential youth to supporting initiatives aimed at empowering individuals to lead brighter lives, each grant has been instrumental in driving positive change and fostering a stronger, more resilient community.
"As the next generation of philanthropists, we recognize the importance of investing in the organizations that are at the forefront of tackling our community's most pressing issues," said Logan Waller, Treasurer of ELU who serves as chair of the Microgrant Fund. “The Microgrant Fund allows us to amplify the impact of these grassroots efforts and partner in the meaningful change that benefits us all while giving a voice to the next generation of civic-minded leaders.”
As ELU's Microgrant Fund embarks on its fifth year, the group remains steadfast in its commitment to supporting local nonprofits and empowering emerging leaders to drive positive change. Through collaboration, innovation, and a shared dedication to community service, ELU continues to inspire hope, transform lives, and build a brighter future for West Michigan.
For more information about Heart of West Michigan United Way's Emerging Leaders United and the Microgrant Fund, please visit www.hwmuw.org/emergingleaders.