Grant award sparks LCCF into second year of LEAF program

TRI-CITY AREA — The Lapeer County Community Foundation has been awarded $75,000 through the Michigan Children’s Savings Account Program Innovation & Sustainability Initiative to strengthen and expand Lapeer County LEAF and LEAF 360.

Lapeer County LEAF, or Lapeer County Education Attainment Fund, is a universal children’s savings account program currently serving nearly 8,000 students across Lapeer County. The program helps students and families plan for life after high school by combining educational savings with opportunities for financial literacy, career exploration and future planning.

The new funding will support the second year of LEAF 360, which expands LEAF’s traditional savings model to support the whole child and family. Built around four pillars — mindfulness, medical, movement and money — LEAF 360 connects families with opportunities focused on physical and mental wellness, financial capability, educational planning, career readiness and community involvement. 

Students can also earn incentives deposited into their LEAF accounts by participating in qualifying activities and events.

The grant will help the foundation strengthen partnerships with schools, health care providers, nonprofits, businesses and other community organizations while expanding opportunities for families throughout Lapeer County. Funding will also support additional translation services and culturally responsive outreach to improve access and participation among Hispanic and Spanish-speaking families.

“LEAF has always been a bold statement that we believe in the future of every student in Lapeer County,” said Nancy Boxey, executive director of the foundation. “Through LEAF 360, we’re expanding that vision by recognizing that educational success doesn’t happen in isolation. With continued community collaboration, LEAF 360 is helping create healthier families, stronger communities and brighter futures for Lapeer County students.”