Our Story

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Why We Started

During Eric's (the founder's) senior year of high school, his model united nations club faced a huge financial hurdle. With rising costs in hotel, conference, and transportation fees, the club would not be able to attend their final conference. This event was the culmination of months of hard work, research, debate, and four years of high school model united nations, for some. With no support from his school, expenses piling up, and no funding available. Eric turned to his community for help. Securing roughly $1,000 for his club's trip from local companies, all of the students were able to attend the conference and shatter records for the school that year. If not for the generosity of his community Eric and his club may not have been able to make it the conference!

(left to right: Aidan Parrott, Kyle Biel, Eric Siegrist, and Olivia Look).

Eric uniquely understood his club's financial position and knew many other schools around the state of Michigan faced a similar problem so he and his fellow model un delegates founded the Michigan Youth Education Fund. Trips like Eric's are vital for educational, professional, and personal development, and help to impact the future of students. No student should have to sit on the sideline and lose out on such valuable opportunities due to financial reasons. ​

Today, the Michigan Youth Education Fund continues striving to ensure educational opportunities are accessible to all.

Who We Are

The Michigan Youth Education Fund (MiYEF) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization focused on giving K-12 students access to experiential learning outside of the classroom. Our organization believes that a fundamental part of education is learning through different academic experiences. The Michigan Youth Education Fund was founded by volunteers and continues to be run by volunteers today!

​Here at the Michigan Youth Education Fund, we are breaking down barriers, so that all students are able to participate in the educational activities that will help to advance learning, inspire change, and promote leadership. We believe in coordinating with school districts, teachers, parents, and students to provide the most for our Michigan students. 

​What We Do

EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITY

Student

GRANT PROGRAM

• Michigan students can apply for an Educational Opportunity Grant to reduce the cost burden of educational events like Model UN, Robotics, Mock Trial, Debate, and more.

Apply

EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITY

Group

GRANT PROGRAM

• Eligible student groups can apply to reduce the overall cost burden on student for conference fees and travel to educational events like Model UN, Robotics, Mock Trial, Debate, and more.

Apply

MiYEF ANNUAL

Awards

STUDENTS & EDUCATORS

• The Michigan Youth Education Fund recognizes one distinguished student and educator for outstanding work in their school and community. Application opening soon.

Nominate

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Beyond helping students attend educational events through grants and scholarships, The Michigan Youth Education Fund is proud to provide resources for our community. 

Event Directory

With the Event Directory from the Michigan Youth Education Fund, you can find the event that is right for you! Browse educational opportunities across the state of Michigan.

Event Accreditation

The Michigan Youth Education Fund provides event accreditation to educational opportunities around the state that provide excellent, hands-on learning for students.

Event Guidance

Once your organization receives funding, it is important to adequately plan for your conference. We have the resources and experience to make your trip run smoothly.