In 1993, GACF received a challenge grant from the W.K. Kellogg Foundation to establish a Youth Advisory Council. The idea was designed to give youth opportunities to be involved in philanthropy. The challenge was successful- GACF and the community matched the grant, raising a total of $171,878 to establish the Kellogg Youth Fund and the Greenville Youth Advisory Council (GYAC).  

Since its formation, grants recommended by GYAC have supported the needs of local youth. GYAC conducts regular Needs Assessments to determine grantmaking priorities. They also work to promote their grant cycle, serve the community, and provide a youth perspective to the GACF Board of Trustees. 

Recent GYAC grants include new weight room equipment for the Greenville High School Iron Jackets program, City of Greenville skate park updates, and support for the Montcalm Prevention Collaborative Safe Prom event. Kadence Hoffman, current GYAC President, highlighted the importance of a fund focused on youth needs. “These grants enhance the community by giving youth more opportunities, which will ultimately help them succeed in life. I hope this fund will continue to improve the lives of Greenville’s youth and better our community’s future,” noting, “We are very grateful to GACF for entrusting us with the Kellogg Youth Fund.” 

As GACF celebrates its 35th anniversary, we bring together the collective stories of donors, nonprofits, students, and community members to demonstrate the power of philanthropy in creating lasting impact and a stronger future.