Here are some of the most common questions we hear about LIFT and our best answers!
Are you associated with LYFT?
Nope. We aren't a ride-sharing service; we are an after-school program. But we do have a super cool bus! And we use it to help our teens get from programming to home and vice versa.
Are you a 501(c)3 nonprofit?
Yes! LIFT is a program of The Friendship Community Center, which was incorporated as a 501(c3) nonprofit in 1988.
What exactly is a 501(c)3 nonprofit?
A nonprofit is an organization whose mission focuses on furthering a social cause or common good. The term nonprofit is often confusing, but it is really meant to describe an organization that does not operate with the primary goal of making a profit.
While nonprofit is used to describe all types of nonprofit organizations, there are actually around three dozen types of nonprofits. A 501(c)3 nonprofit is a corporation, fund, or foundation that operates for religious, charitable, scientific, literary, or educational purposes.
What do you do?
LIFT is an after-school mentorship program and center committed to empowering Leelanau County's youth to discover and embrace their strengths in order to become kind leaders. We fulfill our mission by investing in their evolution, autonomy, and character, by showing up every day, and caring for them unconditionally.
More specifically, we provide a safe space and mentorship for students in Leelanau County afterschool. Our staff and volunteers work hard to provide engaging opportunities and experiences that allow children and teens to grow.
What age groups do you work with?
We primarily work with Middle School and High School students. But, starting in the Fall 2021, we will also be hosting an after-school program for Elementary School students!
How often do you meet?
Starting in the 2021-2022 academic year, we will be meeting three days a week after school with Elementary and Middle School students on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays. For our high schoolers, we will be hosting regular events throughout the school year.
How is LIFT funded?
LIFT is funded by the generosity and support of our local community. While the majority of our funding comes from local foundations through grants, we are also fortunate enough to benefit from the financial support of families, individuals, and local businesses.
If you are interested in donating to support LIFT's programs, please contact us at donor@thecentersb.com.
How is LIFT connected to The Center?
The Center was initially LIFT's financial sponsor. We are now official partners, working together as one organization to strengthen and empower multigenerational and multicultural relationships in our community. You can learn more about The Center at www.thecentersb.com.
Do you have a question about LIFT that you don't see answered here? Please don't hesitate to reach out to us directly at liftyouthsb@gmail.com.
Here are some other helpful links to help you learn more about LIFT: