3 minute read
Community Education Partners Spotlight
Our education system, and most importantly our local students, has been deeply impacted by the ripple effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. Grand Rapids Community Foundation acknowledges the immense need that exists for students right now, especially students and families of color.
Patrick Placzkowski, CEO of the Boys and Girls Club Grand Rapids
The Boys and Girls Club is among a group of local organizations that began individually offering critical in-person, academic support for students and families navigating the digital school environment. The collaboration of organizations also includes Baxter Community Center, Bridge Street Ministries, Grandville Avenue Arts and Humanities, New City Kids, The Other Way Ministries and YMCA of Greater Grand Rapids. They work together to identify best practices and advocate on behalf of their students. Each organization has redesigned their typical after school programs to provide in-person learning support for students enrolled in Grand Rapids Public Schools as they navigate the virtual learning model. They offer virtual learning support, access to reliable internet connection, learning materials and more. Some programs are even able to offer Individualized Education Program appointments, transportation to the program and meals.
The Community Foundation values collaboration and shared learning, and was inspired by this informal, collaborative group of organizations working to offer unique support for students and families this year. Additionally, our Dream Fund Committee, comprised of student, parent, community member and school volunteers was consulted and endorsed this approach. In response to their leadership, the Community Foundation awarded grants of $15,000-20,000 for each site, for a total of $140,000. “While philanthropy alone cannot fill the educational gap that exists,” says Erika VanDyke, program officer at Grand Rapids Community Foundation. “These grant partnerships are a piece of the puzzle in supporting their critical work.”
Christy Carlin Knetsch, executive director of New City Kids: Grand Rapids
Scott Bloem, executive director of The Other Way Ministries
Steff Rosalez, CEO of Grandville Arts & Humanities