DTE Energy Foundation emphasizes diverse workforce and expands educational opportunities in Michigan with $1.25 million in grants

Grants will fund women and minority leadership activities, college advancement programs, STEM education events, and climate change curriculums

Detroit, July 06, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The DTE Energy Foundation today announced it has awarded $1.25 million in grants to four Michigan organizations committed to advancing critical education and employment programs that benefit Michigan students and residents.

The grant recipients include the Michigan Hispanic Collaborative, Cranbrook Institute of Science, FIRST in Michigan and Inforum Michigan.

“Education and workforce development programs are the building blocks for any economy, and it is vital that we support and diversify our state’s employee pipeline in a way that benefits women, minorities and all residents,” said Lynette Dowler, president, DTE Foundation. “These four organizations conduct programs that deliver meaningful results for K-12 and college age students, strengthening Michigan’s economy, diversifying our workforce and reducing the legacy of poverty in some of our communities.”

These latest grants place greater emphasis on programs that create more opportunity and inclusion for underrepresented residents in Michigan. The DTE Foundation is committed to taking intentional steps to support innovative education and employment initiatives in Michigan, especially those that break down barriers of inequity.

“Supporting Hispanic students and families is a key lever for the economic sustainability of Michigan and the nation,” said Michigan Hispanic Collaborative’s Executive Director Anita Martinez. “We work one-on-one with students to help them succeed, while expanding awareness on cultural relevancy and important professional experiences. As a Latina, born and raised in Southwest Detroit, this work is very important to me, as I recognize myself in the students we assist, and we appreciate the DTE Foundation’s support in elevating these efforts.”

GRANT DETAILS

$500,000 for Michigan Hispanic Collaborative

Through its La Próxima Generación program, the Michigan Hispanic Collaborative provides resources and support to college-bound students aged 16-26 and their families. The programming addresses access inequities that have been barriers for Hispanic students, limiting their ability to attend college and obtain employment that provides a living wage. MiHC offers in-school seminars and online support that focuses on life skills, college access, career readiness, and mentorship.