CTAG provides in depth trauma assessments for children and teens who have experienced severe abuse, neglect, or violence. These assessments, conducted by trauma-trained clinicians, offer crucial insights into a child’s mental health and support schools, caregivers, and serve providers in offering appropriate care and intervention. Funding for this program will allow CTAG to serve 10 additional children in 2026 who would otherwise go without this life-changing support, helping them access tailored strategies for healing and giving adults in their lives guidance to better support their recovery.

The Youth in Government program at Sturgis High School immerses students in hands-on learning about state government and democratic processes. Participants take on roles such as legislators, attorneys, press members, and lobbyists as they simulate the legislative and judicial branches during statewide conferences. Funding will help reduce program fees for students competing in the annual Youth in Government Spring Conference in Lansing, making it more affordable for all participants. By lowering the financial barrier, the program ensures that students can continue developing leadership skills, civic literacy, and a lifelong interest in public service.

The Sturges-Young Center for the Arts brings arts, culture, and education to the community through live performances and youth-focused programming. To inspire and empower local students, the Center will host Everest mountaineer and motivational speaker John Beede for a dynamic presentation on leadership, resilience, and goal-setting. Funding will cover program fees, travel expenses, and outreach efforts to make this event accessible to high school students during the day and the broader community in the evening. The program equips teens with practical tools for overcoming challenges and building confidence, while revitalizing youth engagement at the Center.

The Sturgis DDA organizes community-wide events to foster economic vitality and strengthen civic engagement in the downtown district. At this year’s “Dashing through Downtown” holiday celebration, the DDA plans to expand its offering with additional family-friendly attractions. Funding will be used to rent a trackless train and interactive snow globe, providing free, festive activities for children and families attending the Kriskindlmarkt event. These additions are designed to make downtown Sturgis a welcoming seasonal destination, encouraging community connection and holiday spirit.

The SABEA connects local students with real-world career resources and community leaders to support their futures. Its Senior Mentor Meetings program pairs every Sturgis High School senior with a local professional for a one-on-one conversation about their post-graduation plans, whether that be college, workforce, or military. Funding will go toward program materials, refreshments, and coordination to ensure a meaningful and supportive experience. These personalized meetings help students clarify goals, build confidence, and make valuable connections that can lead to future job shadows, internships, or employment.

This grant will provide new buzzers for the Constantine High School Quiz Bowl team, replacing outdated equipment and ensuring students have reliable tools for competitions and practice. Updated buzzers will help create a more engaging and efficient experience during team activities, allowing students to focus on building their knowledge, teamwork, and competitive skills.

This project will bring a variety of flexible seating options—such as balance ball seats, wobble chairs, and comfy floor seats—into a second-grade classroom at Eastside Elementary. These alternative seating choices will help students stay focused, comfortable, and engaged by supporting different learning styles and sensory needs. The new seating will be used daily during independent work, small-group activities, and collaborative learning, creating a more dynamic and student-centered classroom environment.

The Lego & Creativity Club at Riverside Elementary offers students a space to build, imagine, and express themselves through hands-on projects. Funding will support a variety of building materials—such as Legos, magnetic builders, and K’nex—along with a wide range of craft supplies that encourage creativity, problem-solving, and collaboration. These resources will allow the clubs to provide enriching after-school activities throughout the year, giving students opportunities to explore new skills and create meaningful projects.

The Sturgis Area Community Foundation is a $41M foundation committed to serving the charitable needs of our community and enriching the quality of life for all people in the Sturgis area. Through philanthropic services, strategic investments, and community leadership, the Sturgis Area Community Foundation helps people support the causes they care about now and for generations.

For more information on grants or donor services, email sacf@sturgisfoundation.org.