The Youth Advisory Council of Barry County

09/29/2026

WHAT CAN $300 DO?

This spring, a $300 YAC Mini Grant helped six Thornapple Kellogg High School Red Cross Club members become CPR certified.

The newly formed club was working toward recognition by the American Red Cross, and CPR certification was one of the requirements. With support from YAC, the students were able to bring a certified instructor to their school and gain a skill they can carry with them well beyond the classroom.

But YAC Mini Grants aren't just for CPR training.

They can help students turn an idea into something real. From starting a club or project to purchasing supplies, creating an opportunity for students, supporting volunteer efforts, or making a positive difference in their school or community.

Have an idea? YAC Mini Grant applications are due October 15.

Learn more and apply: https://www.barrycf.org/grant/youth-advisory-council-yac/

09/23/2026

Youth funding youth! 🏈💛 We’re proud to support the Hastings Middle School football team through a YAC mini-grant. It’s always exciting to see where our funding ends up in the community!

Big thanks to the Barry County Youth Advisory Council (YAC)!

With a recent mini-grant, the Hastings Middle School football team added brand-new 12 lb, heavy-duty foam tackling dummies to their practice field this season.

The mini-grant program is unique because it is youth funding youth! Each year, the Barry Community Foundation YAC awards thousands of dollars to local non-profits supporting young people across our community.

Our players and coaches really appreciate the support!

09/17/2026

🎉 We are just ONE MONTH away from our annual Roofsit! 🎉

Since 2003, Barry County’s Youth Advisory Council (YAC) has hosted Roofsit in downtown Hastings to raise funds for a local nonprofit making a difference in our community.

This year’s Roofsit will take place on October 17, 2026, at the corner of State Street and Jefferson Street, and we are excited to support The Ability Collective of Barry Countyas our 2026 recipient!

Founded in 2025, The Ability Collective works to create a more inclusive and accessible Barry County for individuals with disabilities through advocacy, education, and community programs. With one in ten Barry County residents living with a disability unrelated to age, their work is helping build a stronger, more welcoming community for everyone.

This year, YAC is working to raise $3,500 for The Ability Collective, and we need your help to reach our goal. Whether you're a local business, community organization, or individual donor, every contribution makes a difference.

💙 Donate today: https://formsbcf.org/view.php?id=74703

09/15/2026

Have an idea that could make your classroom or school experience better? YAC wants to help make it happen!

The Barry Community Foundation’s Youth Advisory Council offers mini-grants of up to $300 for student-led projects that benefit youth in Barry County schools.

Funding could support a special classroom project, student newspaper, sports activity, music project, or another idea that brings positive change to your school.

Here’s what you need to know:
• The project must be student-led.
• Students must write and submit the application.
• A teacher and principal must sign the application.
• Projects should benefit youth, encourage volunteerism, or enhance the school environment.

🗓️ Applications are due October 15.

Learn more and apply:

BCF’s Youth Advisory Council (YAC) has a mini-grant program to introduce the concept of the Community Foundation and its purpose to Barry County youth.

09/08/2026

The 2026 YAC retreat went spectacularly! 🎉
Thank you to everyone who attended and helped out with planning!

08/26/2026

The YAC Annual Report is here! 🤩

This year, YAC students came together to learn, lead, give, and make an impact in their community.

Our YAC Annual Report was also a project led entirely by our summer interns, Meghan Skidmore and Petra Foster. They handled every aspect of creating the report; from collecting information and telling YAC’s story to designing the final product.

Take a look at what happens when young people are given the opportunity to lead, create, and make an impact.

📖 Read the YAC Annual Report: https://www.barrycf.org/community-engagement/community-partnerships/yac/reports/

08/24/2026

Gather around the campfire 🔥

YAC’s Opening Retreat is more than a kickoff to the year. It’s a chance to meet new people, make memories, and find your place in YAC.

September 5–6
Camp Michawana | Delton
FREE for Barry County students ages 13–18

Bring a friend and join us around the fire.

Register here:
https://docs.google.com/.../1FAIpQLSfuzeaNLBSLBx.../viewform

08/18/2026

YAC Year Kickoff! 🎉

Ready to kick off a new year of YAC?! Join us for our Opening Retreat, September 5–6 at Camp Michawana in Delton! 🌲✨

This FREE overnight retreat is the perfect way to kick off the YAC year! You’ll meet other YACers from schools across Barry County, participate in fun team-building activities, learn what YAC is all about, and, of course, spend time hanging out and having fun with friends!

Whether you’re brand new to YAC, have joined a few meetings, or have been involved for years, there’s a place for you. The retreat is also a great opportunity to learn how you can stay involved throughout the school year.

Worried you won’t know anyone? Bring a friend! 👯

Any Barry County student ages 13–18 is welcome. And did we mention it’s FREE?! 💙

REGISTER HERE! 👇
forms.gle/Bcc4Na1EnHHEmmn97