HOLLAND — The Community Foundation of the Holland/Zeeland Area has awarded $212,000 in grants to five local nonprofit organizations, funding initiatives that range from empowering youth to supporting vulnerable populations. 

The grants will bolster programs in the arts, education, human services and youth development, according to Yadah V. Ramirez, CFHZ's director of community impact.

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"Our responsive grants support our vision of a thriving community where each individual has access to opportunities to achieve their full potential," Ramirez said. 

Here’s a breakdown of the recipients and their awards: 

I AM Academy

• Project: Rumble to Rise
• Amount: $60,000 (over two years)
• Impact: Empowers Black and Brown students with essential communication and leadership development skills.
• Quote: "This grant empowers us to continue leading with care, responsibility and bold vision- values that lie at the heart of I AM Academy and the Rumble to Rise project. This support strengthens our capacity to walk alongside young leaders as they navigate their own path, transforming both their lives and the world alongside them.” — Lindsay Cherry, co-founder

Holland Area Arts Council

• Project: Essential Arts Program
• Amount: $48,000 (over two years)
• Impact: Expands therapeutic art initiatives for older adults, individuals with developmental disabilities, teens/young adults with autism, toddlers and families.

Gateway Mission

• Project: Childcare Program for Homeless Mothers and Children
• Amount: $47,000
• Impact: Increases shelter capacity and provides crucial childcare, rehabilitation, and support services for homeless mothers and children.

Migrant Legal Aid

• Project: Empowering Michigan's Immigrants: Education and Outreach
• Amount: $47,000
• Impact: Advances outreach programs and conducts "Know Your Power" workshops for immigrants in Ottawa County, addressing rising demand for support and legal advocacy.
• Quote: "“Migrant farmworkers are a vital part of Michigan’s agricultural economy. But they don’t have the same protections or access to support that others do. This grant helps us meet farmworkers in an environment that is comfortable for them to have conversations, share information, and help them understand their rights." — Ciara Manuzza, community impact coordinator

Velo Kids

• Project: Bike Club Program Expansion
• Amount: $10,000
• Impact: Fosters healthy, active lifestyles in children by expanding their Bike Club Program to underserved populations.
• Quote: "This grant is a game-changer for Velo Kids and the communities we serve." — Jenny White, Executive Director

For more information about the CFHZ, visit its website, cfhz.org/nonprofits.

— Contact reporter Mallory Burt at newsroom@ottawanewsnetwork.org.