Sturgis Area Community Foundation is thrilled to welcome its newest youth trustee, Sturgis High School junior Alan Montoya!

About SACF’s Youth Trustee Program

SACF’s youth trustee program empowers young people to serve as trustees, allowing them to actively participate in decision-making processes. The program provides valuable leadership experience, giving youth a voice in the allocation of funds and the shaping of initiatives that impact their communities. By engaging in governance roles, youth trustees gain insights into philanthropy, nonprofit management, and civic responsibility, while also offering fresh perspectives to the foundation’s work. The program helps foster a new generation of informed, engaged leaders committed to community development.

Q & A with Alan

Q: Tell us about yourself. How do you spend your time when you’re not in school?

A: I’m an incoming junior this year, and I love spending time with family and friends. I’m really into sports and outdoor activities, and I stay pretty active with school clubs and work. I always try to keep busy with my interests and make the most out of my time.

Q: Do you have a favorite school subject?

A: Math is my favorite subject because I enjoy solving problems and finding patterns. I love how it challenges me to think critically and find creative solutions.

Q: What sports or extracurricular activities are you involved in?

A: I am involved in many extracurriculars at Sturgis High School, including Key Club, Leo Club, Student Senate, Positive School Cultural, Peer Assistance, Youth in Government, Youth Advisory Council, Varsity Boys Track, Varsity Boys Soccer, and most recently a Youth Trustee. With all those clubs, I say I manage my time very well and put as much effort as I can in every club/sport.

Q: Why did you decide to join the Community Foundation’s Youth Advisory Council?

A: I chose to join the Youth Advisory Council because, as an incoming freshman, my goal was to get as involved in school as possible, knowing that being active would allow me to help others. However, when I came across the Youth Advisory Council application, I realized this club was different from my other school-based activities. It focused on making a positive impact on a broader community, not just within the school. This inspired me to join, and it has since become my favorite club.

Q: As President of YAC, what do you want people to know about Youth Advisory Council?

A: As President, I want everyone to know that we’re here to help—whether it’s starting a new club at school, supporting community initiatives, developing youth programs, or listening to community ideas. Your voice is just as important as ours, and we’re here for you.

Q: What made you apply to be a Youth Trustee?

A: I applied for the Youth Trustee position because my experience as the President of YAC gave me the opportunity to serve the youth and see the community from a new perspective. Over the past two years in YAC, I learned the value of practicing philanthropy within our community, and I realized what a remarkable opportunity it is. This experience inspired me to do more, and becoming a Youth Trustee felt like the perfect way to contribute my voice further to the community.

Q: What do you hope to accomplish as Youth Trustee of the Sturgis Area Community Foundation?

A: As a Youth Trustee for the Sturgis Area Community Foundation, I’m eager to share my voice and collaborate closely with the SAFC committee. I’m also excited to gain a deeper understanding of how the SAFC operates and am grateful for the opportunity to do so. My goal is to continually help our community, serving as a representative for the youth. I am committed to making a difference, and becoming a Youth Trustee will allow me to further that dedication.

Q: What is your favorite thing about living in the Sturgis community?

A: What I love most about living in Sturgis is it’s a growing small-town atmosphere. While some might feel differently, I genuinely appreciate the close-knit community here. In a town like Sturgis, people come together, making it easier for everyone’s voices to be heard and a strong sense of unity; something I believe Sturgis does very well.