Volunteer START
In order to ensure future leaders in our community, United Way works with high school students through Volunteer START grants to help teach the significance of volunteerism and giving back. Since 2005, high school students have been bale to apply for grants that will leave a positive impact on Saginaw County. The students must collaborate with a nonprofit organization and create a project that benefits the community.
During the 2010/11 school year, seven student groups created and implemented 9 meaningful community service projects. More than 1,600 people contributed to the program. Through a partnership with the H.R. Wickes Foundation, the students were able to apply for a total of $11,900 in grant money to help fund their projects.
Year after year, the projects the high school students and their leaders come up with, and the impact the program has on everyone involved are truly inspirational. "This whole activity got me involved more and showed me what it means to have a passion for helping the community," said a Chesaning High School student.
Service learning is often a component of a high school student's graduation requirements. Participating in Volunteer START gives students the opportunity to complete their service learning requirement as well as engage them in a meaningful volunteer experience that will benefit the community at large.
Volunteer START History