About Us
What We Do
The Uplift Our Youth Foundation is an educational and philanthropic foundation whose purpose is to support projects, programs, and activities which enhance opportunities for young people. Each year the Uplift Our Youth Foundation provides funding to projects and programs based in Clinton, Ingham, and Eaton Counties.
Since 2002, Uplift Our Youth Foundation has awarded $275,000 to organizations and agencies who serve our community’s youth.
$275,000
Dollars of donations awarded
5,000+
People helped in our communities
Case Studies
DreamWorld Studios for the Arts
Fifteen dancers participated in the Dazzling Diamonds' 2024 -2025 season. From parent and participant surveys it was highlighted that dancers felt connected to team mates - increasing their social networks, increased confidence and self esteem, and felt their dancing had improved.
Over 100 participants engaged in entrepreneurship education and networking experiences. Fifteen established business owners volunteered as mentors, strengthening cross-generational business learning.
Five youth entrepreneurs competed in a structured pitch competition and received monetary investment awards.
Melanated Business Alliance
Frankie’s Corner Little Thoroughbred Crusade
Twelve students developed horsemanship skills including stall cleaning, grooming, tackling, riding, and overall horse care. They also attended educational trips that exposed participants to the broader equine industry and its diverse pathways.
Student Statesmanship Institute
Seven students participated in the LEAD Summer Program, which enabled them to take their legislative experience to the next level by meeting current and former legislators, arguing with professional lobbyists on the merits of their bills, and gaining key lessons in developing their debate, public speaking, and analytical skills.
Featured Donors
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Betty and John Sanford
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Community Mental Health Authority of Clinton, Eaton, Ingham Counties
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Dr. Jessie J. Storey-Fry
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John and Liz Gardner
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Lansing Branch NAACP
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Lee N. June and Shirley A. June
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Michigan State University - University Outreach and Engagement
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Michigan State University College of Human Medicine
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Michigan State University College of Osteopathic Medicine
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Michigan State University Office for Institutional Diversity and Inclusion - Dr. Jabbar Bennett
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Myron and Terrilyn Frierson
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Octavis Long
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Patrick Connally
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Rocky Ray Beckett and Julie G. Thomas-Beckett
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Wilbert Fobbs, Jr. and Ava Fobbs
Community Mental Health
Platinum Sponsor
$5,000+
Sponsor recognized and thanked for sponsorship at event. Logo of sponsor on website. Listed as a Gold Sponsor on UOYF Facebook and website. 12 months business video on our website. Camera ready advertisement in the program book. One (1) Table (8 seating) to the Grant Awards Dinner.
Silver Sponsor
$2,000+
Sponsor recognized and thanked for sponsorship at event. Logo of sponsor on UOYF Facebook page and website.
Listed as Silver Sponsor on UOYF Facebook and web site. 6 months business video on our website. Camera ready advertisement in the program book. Four (4) Tickets to the Grant Awards Dinner.
Sponsorship Opportunities
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Thank You to Our Sponsors and Donors
2025 Gold Sponsor
2025 Silver Sponsor
Rishan
Butler
2025 Bronze Sponsors
Dr. Lee and Ms. Shirley June
Myron and Terrilyn Frierson
Dr. Jessie J. Storey-Fry
John and Betty Sanford
John and Liz Gardner
Larry L. and Martha Patricia Leatherwood
Octavis Long
Dr. Patrick Connally
2025 Friends
of UOYF
Joseph Dunn Allstate Agency
Lansing Housing Commission
Fredric Ford
Paulette G. Russell -- NSCN LLC
Rochelle Whiting
Victer Verchereau
Wendell R. and Marta E. Barron
2025 Honorary Co-Chairs
Hearns Lawn and Garden Services LLC - John Hearns
Meridian Professional Psychological - Hilton T. Thomas, PhD.
Rev. and Mrs. Samuel Johnson
Susan Bonfiglio
Willliam H. Tansil
Case Credit Union
Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Lansing Alumnae Chapter
Eastside Community Action Center --Stanley D. Parker
Cheryl Smith
Charles Blockett, Jr.
Dr. Falyne Fry
James William Cotter
Julian Darden
Kathryn L. Lovel
Lonnie Lee
Michael Flowers
Nettavia D. Curry, PhD.
Ronald Bishop
Surae Eaton Sangster