177 Organizations Awarded Funding to Provide Before-School, After-School, and Summer Programming Through MiLEAP Out-of-School Time Grant Initiative

LANSING, Mich. – Governor Gretchen Whitmer joined the Michigan Department of Lifelong Education, Advancement, and Potential (MiLEAP) today to announce $75 million in Out-of-School Time Grant funds awarded to 177 organizations throughout the state to enhance learning opportunities beyond the classroom for Michigan students. MiLEAP hosted an event with awardees and partners today to celebrate the investment that will help enrich before-school, after-school, and summer programming for thousands of children statewide.

“Today’s investment will expand before-school, after-school, and summer learning options for students across Michigan,” said Governor Whitmer. “These programs offer kids extra help on their homework and the opportunity to build new skills, enjoy recreational activities, and make new friends. We know that these initiatives are critical to improving student outcomes and helping every child learn at grade level, graduate, and build a good life for themselves. I will work with anyone who shares this vision, and together, we will provide our students and parents the resources they need to thrive.” 

"We are delighted to celebrate this significant investment in the future our state’s children," said Dr. Beverly Walker-Griffea, director of MiLEAP. "This Out-of-School Time grant funding will play a crucial role in shaping the academic achievements of our youth, providing essential support for students during the hours their parents work or attend school. By supporting these organizations, we are ensuring that our communities have access to meaningful opportunities that empower our children to reach their full potential and build a brighter future for all Michiganders.”

Out-of-School Time Grants were awarded through a competitive application process, with 338 total applicants requesting over $122 million in funding. 163 competitive grant applications were funded based on their ability to provide impactful programming. Additionally, 14 designated grants were funded to support out-of-school time programming, resulting in a total of 177 organizations funded for the 2024-2025 program year. Funding amounts were determined by each programs’ proposed number of students served and operational program days and hours.

The grants support a wide array of activities including mentoring, leadership, physical fitness, visual and performing arts, literacy initiatives, and science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education.

“By increasing the capacity of Michigan’s before-school, after-school, and summer programs, we are providing more children with productive outlets that keep them engaged and focused,” said Rawlan Lillard II, deputy director of Education Partnerships at MiLEAP. “These grants are vital to equip organizations with the resources needed to create safe and nurturing environments where young people can go to participate in activities that encourage their development both academically and personally.”

“Investing in out-of-school time programs is an investment in Michigan's future,” said Erin Skene-Pratt, executive director for Michigan Afterschool Partnership. “These programs offer essential academic support, enrichment opportunities, and safe spaces for our youth to grow and thrive beyond the classroom. The $57 million being distributed will enhance youth access to these programs that are creating pathways for lifelong success.”

The following programs are receiving awards to serve five or more program sites. The full list of sub-awardees can be viewed on the Out-of-School Time Program website.

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