Michigan Afterschool Partnership Applauds Governor Whitmer’s $50 Million Boost For Afterschool Programs

The Michigan Afterschool Partnership (MASP) expresses gratitude for Governor Gretchen Whitmer’s recent announcement of a groundbreaking $50 million in grants to bolster after school, out-of-school time, and summer learning programs across Michigan. Administered by the Michigan Department of Lifelong Education, Advancement and Potential (MiLEAP), this unprecedented funding aligns with MASP’s mission to provide high-quality out-of-school time programming for every student in the state.

MiLEAP, in collaboration with the Michigan Department of Education, awarded $50 million to 783 sites, benefitting 126 out-of-school time programs in the 2023-24 Out-of-School Time (OST) Grant initiative. This initiative aims to expand OST program participation and alleviate costs for families.

Erin Skene-Pratt, MASP’s executive director, emphasized the invaluable impact of out-of-school time programs on students’ academic performance, behavior, and future earning potential. Despite the increased grants, there remains a critical need for sustained, consistent funding, with over 750,000 Michigan youth on waitlists.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

The Arc Of St. Clair County Gears Up For 2nd Annual “Show the Love” Dinner/Dance Featuring Julianne Ankley

Mark your calendars for a night of love, music, and support as The Arc of St. Clair County prepares for its 2nd Annual “Show the Love” Dinner/Dance on Thursday, February 8th. 

The event, held at Alexander’s Premier Banquet Facility and Catering in Marysville from 6 – 9 p.m., promises an unforgettable evening with a special guest appearance by Julianne Ankley, a celebrated Singer/Songwriter named CBS Detroit’s “Best Of Country Music in Detroit.” 

For $40 per person, attendees can enjoy not only great music but also a photobooth, silent auction, and booze pull. This event is a wonderful opportunity to show love and support for The Arc of SCC. 

For more information, visit: TheArcSCC.org.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Michigan Unveils Groundbreaking Roadmap To Rural Prosperity

In a historic move, the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity’s Office of Rural Prosperity has unveiled the “Michigan Roadmap to Rural Prosperity.” 

Representing the first-ever comprehensive report from the State of Michigan, the roadmap focuses on addressing the challenges faced by rural communities. The vision outlined in the roadmap emphasizes creating resilient, connected rural ecosystems that foster long-term prosperity. 

Key strategies include diversifying the workforce, improving individual health and economic well-being, supporting local service delivery capacity, expanding housing opportunities, building resilient infrastructure, and fostering regionally driven economic development. 

The report underscores the significance of collaboration between state agencies, decision-makers, and rural communities in overcoming the complex, structural challenges. Michigan aims to be a trailblazer in promoting responsible stewardship of natural assets, ensuring a sustainable and prosperous future for its rural areas.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell