GRAND RAPIDS INITIATIVE FOR LEADERS

Causes: Protestant, Religion

Mission: Our mission is to strengthen leaders to transform communities.

Results: What if you could impact Grand Rapids’ economy and the lives in your community by improving your leadership or the leadership of others? What’s in it for Participants? Through GR Initiative for Leaders (GRIL), participants learn balance, accountability, interdependence, diversity, empowerment, and leverage in the Ambassador Club School-Based Program, Adult Leadership Program, and GRIL U Faith-Based Program – all 9-month long programs held during the school year. GRIL also offers 90 minute Community Leadership Trainings on the above to all interested leaders. Milestones: To date, 99% of our teen graduates have a high school diploma. 61% are in college. The difference between our high school grad rate and the state average (76%) amounts to thousands saved in incarceration and unemployment costs. Spiritual Mandate: “Jesus replied: Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the first and greatest commandment.” Matthew 22: 37 – 38 Diversity Statement: GR Initiative for Leaders (GRIL) continues to be intentional in demonstrating cultural sensitivity within our organization. We place diversity related issues as paramount and recognize that both systems and individuals must be aware and culturally responsive within our work, particularly within our effort in championing social justice. To that end, GRIL is pleased to announce that after completing the rigorous assessment set forth by Partners for a Racism-Free Community, we have recently been bestowed the distinction of full partner. We invite you to join us in this journey to create a racism-free organization leading to a racism-free community. Special thanks to W.K. Kellogg Foundation and the DeVos Family Foundation/DeVos Urban Leadership Initiative, and all of our donors without whose support, our efforts wouldn’t be possible.

Target demographics: youth, adults, schools and community

Direct beneficiaries per year: To date, 99% of our teen graduates have a high school diploma. 61% are in college. The difference between our high school grad rate and the state average (76%) amounts to thousands saved in incarceration and unemployment costs.

Geographic areas served: strengthening leaders to transform communities

Programs: GRIL U Youth Development, Adult Leadership Program, Ambassador Club, Community Leadership Traingings