News from Youth Solutions

Stay connected to our programs, youth, and statewide network by reading our latest newsletter stories and blogs.

Savannah Duff - September Alumni Spotlight

This month, we’re highlighting Jobs for Michigan's Graduates (JMG) alumna Savannah Duff, a 2026 graduate of Central Lake Public High School and the Northwest Michigan Works! JMG program. During high school, Savannah was an active leader in her school and community, serving in roles including Student Body President and National Honor Society President. Today, Savannah is attending Northern Michigan University, where she is majoring in pre-radiography and working toward a care

Creating Opportunity Through Connection: How Michigan Works! Region 7B Is Building a Culture of Career Development

For many students, high school follows a familiar path. They attend classes each day, participate in activities, and move steadily toward graduation. For students across the communities served by Michigan Works! Region 7B, however, that journey often looks very different. Many are balancing full-time jobs while trying to earn a diploma. Others have experienced bullying, housing instability, family challenges, or setbacks that made a traditional school environment difficult to

Michigan Joins National Middle School Career Exploration Impact & Learning Network

Youth Solutions and statewide partners collaborate to strengthen career exploration opportunities for Michigan middle school students. Michigan is one of several states participating in the second cohort of the Middle School Career Exploration Impact & Learning Network, a national initiative helping states expand high-quality career exploration opportunities that prepare students for future education and career success. Youth Solutions joins state education, workforce, and in

Youth Solutions Welcomes New Board Members

Youth Solutions, a non-profit organization at the intersection of education and workforce development, proudly announces the appointment of Laura Preuss Ph.D. and Jessica Boshnyak to its Board of Directors, effective immediately. “We are thrilled to welcome Laura and Jessica to the Youth Solutions Board of Directors,” said Roger Curtis, Executive Director of Youth Solutions. “Their extensive experience in workforce development, talent strategy, healthcare operations, and org

Meet Our September Specialist of the Month: Kristy Schaefer

This month, we're proud to recognize Kristy Schaefer, a dedicated Jobs for Michigan's Graduates (JMG) Specialist and Career Navigator from Michigan Works! Region 7B who serves students across three Alternative Education Academy campuses in Oscoda, Tawas City, and West Branch. Kristy joined the JMG team in 2024, bringing with her a background in early childhood education and a passion for helping young people find their path forward. After earning her associate degree in early

Jobs for Michigan’s Graduates Achieves 99% Diploma and GED Attainment Rate Among Enrolled Students

For the second year in a row, Youth Solutions’ Jobs for Michigan’s Graduates (JMG) program has achieved a statewide graduation rate of 99%. The metric refers to the percentage of participants enrolled in a high school or alternative education JMG program as a course for credit who earned their high school diploma or GED this year. The achievement demonstrates that sustained relationships, career-focused education and individualized support is helping more young people gradu

West Michigan Works! Alumni Shine at Youth Solutions’ Summer Summit

Each year, Youth Solutions’ Summer Summit brings together Jobs for Michigan’s Graduates (JMG) specialists, affiliate staff, and partners from across Michigan for professional development, collaboration, and planning for the year ahead. This year, JMG alumni and Youth Advisory Council (YAC) members Iyanni Shyne and America Figueroa had the opportunity to share their experiences with JMG professionals from across the state, offering firsthand insight into the importance of prov

Board Leadership Spotlight: Ken Fettig, Board Treasurer

Youth Solutions is guided by a Board of Directors who bring diverse perspectives and a shared commitment to improving outcomes for Michigan’s youth. One of those leaders is Ken Fettig, whose passion for education, collaboration, and long-term impact helps strengthen Youth Solutions’ strategy and expand its reach. Ken was introduced to Youth Solutions by a trusted colleague who recognized their shared commitment to expanding career and educational opportunities for young peopl

Meet Our August Specialist of the Month: Chauncy Williams

This month, we're proud to recognize Chauncy Williams, a dedicated Jobs for Michigan's Graduates (JMG) Specialist at Muskegon Community Educational Center (MCEC) Alternative. Since becoming a JMG Specialist in 2021, Chauncy has helped transform opportunities for students by connecting career readiness, leadership development, and real-world learning experiences. What began with just eight students has grown into a thriving program that now serves more than 700 students acros

Meet Anna Leathorn, Alumni Spotlight of the Month

Anna Leathorn graduated from the Ogemaw Heights Jobs for Michigan’s Graduates (JMG) program in 2025. During high school, she was deeply involved in both JMG and her school community, building the leadership and communication skills that continue to serve her today. Anna served as secretary for her JMG program and was a Bridge Crew leader and Link Crew mentor, helping incoming students successfully transition into high school. She was also a member of the National Honor Socie

Why Michigan Can’t Afford to Cut Programs That Are Working for Our Youth

Roger Curtis, Executive Director, Youth Solutions Michigan’s economic competitiveness continues to slip behind our Midwestern neighbors—most troublingly among young people. Statewide K–12 chronic absenteeism is 28%. Our youth disconnection rate—young people neither in school nor working—stands at 14.4%. Labor force participation is 61.6%, and only 55% pursue postsecondary education. These are among the worst rates in the nation, and they carry long-term costs for families, co

Why Career‑Connected Learning Is Michigan’s Competitive Advantage

By Roger Curtis, Executive Director, Youth Solutions Michigan stands at a defining moment. The global economy is bracing for a talent shortfall of more than 85 million workers by 2030, likely costing businesses trillions in unattained revenue. Here at home, Michigan’s economy depends on a diverse, future-ready talent pipeline—yet employers across the state increasingly feel the strain of a workforce not keeping pace with changing needs. Labor force participation sits at just

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