LANSING, Mich. – Today, the Michigan Department of Lifelong Education, Advancement, and Potential (MiLEAP) is announcing an $800,000 grant awarded to the Detroit-based Urban Alliance Foundation to launch an innovative internship program designed to support Michigan Reconnect students ages 21-24. This initiative aims to empower young adults pursuing an associate degree or industry-recognized skill certificate by providing paid internships, job training and mentorship opportunities.
“Education is the greatest driver towards health, wealth, and prosperity for Michigan families,” said Lt. Governor Garlin Gilchrist II. “That’s why we established MiLEAP and Michigan Reconnect to help us achieve our postsecondary education goals, put tens of thousands on the path towards college degrees and skills training, and lower the cost of higher education for Michigan students. Today’s announcement will help more Reconnectors get experiences inside and outside the classroom that give them the skills they need to support their families at good-paying jobs. Let’s keep working together to open doors for opportunity for more Michiganders.”
“Today’s announcement builds on MiLEAP’s commitment to expanding educational access for Michigan students by recognizing the vital role that paid internships play in enriching the student experience,” said Dr. Beverly Walker-Griffea, director of MiLEAP. “By participating in meaningful internships and mentorships, students have an opportunity to gain real-world knowledge, and the skills needed to thrive in a competitive workforce. This new partnership reflects our dedication to breaking down barriers and creating pathways to success for every Michigander.”
Scheduled to begin in the spring, the internship program will offer up to 50 students from across Michigan a comprehensive six-month experience that includes:
- A paid four-week virtual workforce readiness course.
- Paid short-term internships at $17/hour for 20 hours per week, tailored to students’ career interests and goals.
- Ongoing professional mentorship and support services to help students overcome barriers such as transportation, childcare and emergency needs.
“This investment reflects a commitment to addressing systemic barriers to career success for young adults in Michigan,” said Alphonso Amos, executive director of Urban Alliance Detroit. “By providing paid work experiences, mentorship, and professional development, we are equipping students with the tools they need to succeed in a competitive workforce while building a more inclusive economy.”
How to Apply
Michigan Reconnect students ages 21-24 who are currently enrolled are eligible to apply. Interested students should:
- Review the 2025 Urban Alliance Connect Internship Program Application.
- Complete and submit their application by March 24, 2025.
About Urban Alliance
Urban Alliance is a leading nonprofit organization that bridges the gap between education and the workforce by providing high school and college students with meaningful work opportunities. Since its inception, Urban Alliance has partnered with over 200 employers nationwide to deliver transformative experiences for young adults. Visit UrbanAlliance.org to learn more.
About Michigan Reconnect
Michigan Reconnect is a last-dollar scholarship program that pays for eligible participants 25 years old and older to attend an in-district community college tuition-free or offers a significantly reduced tuition rate for participants to attend an out-of-district community college. The program temporarily lowered the age to adults 21-24; the application is now closed and accepted applicants must enroll and begin taking classes no later than summer 2025. To learn more and apply to Michigan Reconnect, get started at Michigan.gov/Reconnect.
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About MiLEAP:
Established by Governor Whitmer in 2023, MiLEAP’s mission is to improve outcomes from preschool to postsecondary so anyone can make it in Michigan’ with a solid education and a path to a good-paying job. To learn more about MiLEAP, go to Michigan.gov/MiLEAP.
