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Members of the Michigan Gateway Community Foundation’s Youth Advisory Council (YAC) recently visited Rising Kites Coffee in Bridgman to see the impact of a grant they awarded earlier this year. The café, founded by Danielle Grandholm, is more than a coffee shop—it’s a space built on belonging, inclusion, and support for families of individuals with Down Syndrome. One way they do this is through providing employment and job training opportunities to individuals with intellectual disabilities. Inspired by her daughter Sammy’s diagnosis in 2020, Grandholm created Rising Kites to offer the kind of community she and her family once lacked. “We wanted to come alongside families like ours and let them know they're supported,” she shared. The YAC grant helped fund “bags for babies,” care packages for families receiving a Down Syndrome diagnosis. During their visit, students enjoyed coffee, learned about the shop’s mission, and saw how inclusive spaces can inspire change. “Rising Kites is amazing—I’ve never seen anything like it,” said YAC member Monse, a senior at Brandywine High School. Her thoughts were echoed by fellow YAC member, and Dowagiac High School Freshman Isabella, “This is an amazing community organization. I think it is really important for folks to get out and meet new people, and not discriminate against anyone.” The visit left students feeling inspired and reminded of the power they have to shape their communities for the better. “YAC helps you grow as a leader and as a person,” said Dowagiac High School junior Aiden. “It gives you the chance to make a real impact.” The Rising Kites grant was funded through youth funds (YAC), the Buchanan Unity fund, Niles Cone fund and the MG Corrie Listenberger Bair fund. To learn more about Rising Kites, you can visit their website here: https://www.risingkitescoffee.org/ For more information on the funds available through MGCF visit: https://www.mgcf.org/funds-at-mgcf
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