Reflecting on a Year of Impact: YAC's 2023 Review
Since their inception, the Youth Advisory Committee has continuously supported the youth of Isabella County. Throughout 2023, YAC upheld their mission through grant making, donation drives, volunteering, and fundraising, culminating in a successful year.
Annually, YAC actively participates in the competitive grant making process where MPACF allocates funds to local organizations. In 2023, YAC awarded a total of $28,468.00, combining competitive grants with mini grants. In the spring, YAC awarded funds to Clothing INC, Girl Scouts Heart of Michigan, Mid Central Area Health Education Center, Mount Pleasant Police Department, and The Care Store. In the fall, YAC awarded funding to Community Mental Health for Central Michigan, Mount Pleasant Discovery Museum, and Eagle Village. Additionally, YAC awarded mini grants to Foster Closet of Isabella County and United Way of Gratiot & Isabella County.
YAC's Flamingo Flocking raised $3,000. By making a $50 or more donation to the Kellogg Youth Fund, the YAC would then surprise an Isabella County resident or business, of the donor’s choice, with a flock of flamingos in their yard. This is an annual tradition that brings joy to both those doing and receiving the flocking. YAC also held a fundraiser with Blaze Pizza. Supporters were encouraged to buy pizza during a specific timeframe and 20% of each sale went back to YAC. All money raised by YAC is used to support their mission.
When not fundraising or making grant decisions, YAC engages in community volunteering. In 2023, YAC volunteered at Zonta’s 33rd Annual Applefest, United Way of Gratiot & Isabella Counties Fill a May Flower event, Adopt a Family Program, and Candy Cane Lane during the Christmas Celebration. To end the year, YAC volunteered with Christmas Outreach of Isabella County. YAC also hosted a jean drive in partnership with Clothing Inc. The drive provided jeans for young men and boys for the school year.
YAC attended two events dedicated to building leadership skills. Early in the year, YAC participated in the “Bridges Out of Poverty training.” This training educated YAC with a deeper understanding of the challenges and strengths of those coming from poverty. It also helped create tools to better serve the youth of our community. During the summer, YAC attended the "2023 Youth Grantmakers Summer Leadership Conference" by the Council of Michigan Foundations. This opportunity was filled with insightful discussions about philanthropy, community impact, and mental health. Both events provided YAC with necessary professional development for young leaders.
YAC’s journey in 2023 stands as a testament of their dedication to our community. From grant making to volunteering, YAC's commitment to supporting local youth and fostering community well-being remains steadfast. As we reflect on their year, it's evident that YAC's contributions have left a lasting mark.