Recent Stories

YouthQuest Highlights: July 2020
Sharing Voices Students at Eisenhower, Freeman and Neithercut elementary schools became advocates to help protect the earth by creating posters that call others to action. Students used their marketing materials to share why it’s important to recycle and use fewer single-use plastic products. They were able to take a leadership role while expressing why it’s important to them to help… Read More 

On the Job: Ardelia Bailey
It was through working at a college work-study program that Flint Southwestern Academy Graduate Ardelia Bailey secured her current position as a compliance officer at Metro Community Development in Flint. Bailey says she picked up quite a few skills and responsibilities while working at Baker College of Flint library as a circulation clerk for a year and a half. While… Read More 

SYI Volunteer Day: Students Give Back
Each year, students who work through Summer Youth Initiative (SYI) take a day to give back to their communities. This year, the format is different to comply with state mandates and guidelines to protect students from the COVID-19 pandemic. Rather than host one collective event involving all SYI students, each SYI employer is hosting its own smaller event. “Each SYI… Read More 

Thoughts from Leadership: The Importance of Literacy in Education
By Dr. Kimberly Leverette Working in education for many years, I have experienced firsthand the ways in which proficient literacy positively affects students, schools and communities. According to the Literacy Project Foundation, 50 percent of adults cannot read above an eighth-grade reading level—which results in negative outcomes later in life. ProLiteracy, an international nonprofit organization that supports adult literacy programs,… Read More 

5 Free Things to Do in Flint & Genesee
Flint & Genesee is filled with places to explore. Looking for a way to spend a day without breaking the bank? Check out these no-cost attractions. Stepping Stone Falls Flint’s very own man-made waterfall is a beautiful sight for walking, bike rides and picnics. The waterfall connects Mott Lake to the Flint River with a gorgeous view. Almar Orchards Most… Read More