Detroit City Wire

The Michigan Department of Lifelong Education, Advancement, and Potential (MiLEAP) has awarded the Detroit Regional Chamber a $1.2 million grant through the Reconnect Community Action Grant. This funding is in partnership with Henry Ford College (HFC).

The Reconnect Community Action Grant is part of Michigan's broader initiative to meet Governor Gretchen Whitmer’s Sixty by 30 goal. This goal aims for 60% of working-age Michigan residents to earn a postsecondary degree or credential by 2030.

This grant will enable HFC, alongside the Chamber, to expand the Detroit Reconnect program. The expansion includes hiring staff to support students, enhancing outreach and technology access, and building strong alumni and partner networks. Detroit Reconnect assists adults aged 21 or older who are pursuing or returning to higher education. It provides services such as completing high school equivalency/GEDs, finding suitable colleges or trade schools, understanding tuition benefits and financial aid options like FAFSA, exploring careers and job placement opportunities, and receiving referrals for holistic support.

Dr. A. Reginald Best, Vice President of Advancement at HFC, emphasized the importance of this initiative: “Detroit Reconnect represents a vital step forward in our collective responsibility to support adult learners.” He highlighted that it strengthens pathways to education and career readiness for individuals from diverse backgrounds.

Greg Handel, Vice President of TalentEd at the Chamber, echoed these sentiments: “There has never been a more important time to support students of all ages seeking a credential or college degree.” He noted that funds from the grant would help continue supporting students through their unique educational journeys.

Both leaders expressed appreciation for HFC’s partnership with the Chamber in advancing educational opportunities across the Detroit region.