Funding Awarded to Active Boys in Christ through the Out-of-School Time Grants Program to Empower Local Youth

FLINT, Mich. – Today, the Michigan Department of Lifelong Education, Advancement, and Potential (MiLEAP) announced more than $105,000 in grant funding awarded to Active Boys in Christ (ABC) through the Out-of-School Time Grants program. The funding aims to support initiatives that expose Flint youth to valuable career opportunities in the skilled trades. Leaders from MiLEAP joined ABC today at Jachin Baptist Church, where the program is headquartered, to celebrate this transformative investment.

“We are delighted to celebrate this exciting partnership that will expand innovative learning opportunities for young Michiganders,” said Dr. Beverly Walker-Griffea, director of MiLEAP. “MiLEAP’s investment in Active Boys in Christ is helping to change outcomes for more young people in Flint, giving them a safe place to engage in impactful activities that will lead to better academic performance, help them develop social skills, and lay the groundwork for a brighter, more prosperous future.”

The Out-of-School Time Grants program provided up to $234,000 per site to organizations throughout the state during the 2023-2024 cycle to support increased participation in before- and after-school, and summer learning programs. A total of $50 million was awarded to nearly 800 sites across Michigan to advance these critical efforts.

ABC initially received $57,600 in the original round of grants, and due to its effective use of funding and significant impact on local youth, was later awarded an additional $47,881.  

“I started Active Boys in Christ to create pathways for local youth to connect with the skilled trades,” said Derrick Watkins, CEO and founder of ABC. “Growing up in the Flint area, I experienced first-hand the disparity in access to information and opportunities in these fields. As a high school dropout who eventually earned my GED and Electrical Master’s License, I am passionate about making sure young people today have the resources and support they need to succeed in their chosen careers. The state’s commitment to initiatives like this isn’t just encouraging – it’s life-changing for our youth.”

ABC focuses on initiatives that engage youth ages 7 to 17 in various skilled trades, including electrical, plumbing, carpentry and culinary arts. The organization also imparts essential Iife skills such as honestly, respect and self-confidence. Through partnerships with local businesses and licensed professionals, ABC provides cost-free, hands-on education to its participants.

“The impact of organizations like Active Boys in Christ cannot be overstated,” said Rawlan Lillard II, deputy director of Education Partnerships at MiLEAP. “We are excited to continue our support for organizations throughout the state that are dedicated to creating these vital opportunities for our youth.”

For more information about these initiatives and others, visit MiLEAP’s Education Partnerships webpage at Michigan.gov/MiLEAP/Education-Partnerships.

(left to right) Rawlan Lillard II, deputy director of Education Partnerships at MiLEAP, Dr. Beverly Walker-Griffea, director of MiLEAP, Derrick Watkins, CEO and Founder of Active Boys in Christ

MiLEAP Director, Dr. Beverly Walker-Griffea shares on the importance of out-of-school time partnerships in Michigan.

Active Boys in Christ CEO and Founder, Derrick Watkins, stands outside of a shed built by student participants.

Active Boys in Christ CEO and Founder, Derrick Watkins, presents shed project built by student participants.

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