Joy in Teaching Grants

Geographic Scope: Michigan (educators across Michigan)

Background: An initiative created by Members First Credit Union to support Michigan educators in their efforts to enhance the educational experience for their students. Founded as a teachers' credit union, M1 remains committed to empowering educators.

Award Structure:

• 2025 Awards: $20,000 total
• Number of grants: 40 grants awarded in 2025
• Award amount: $500 per grant
• Reach: 10 counties across Michigan
• 2025 applications: 200+ educators applied

Focus Areas:

• Classroom materials, equipment, and resources for educational projects
• STEM education: hands-on experiments, robotics, drones, interactive kits
• Inclusive learning environments: wobble chairs, sensory tools, flexible seating, adaptive materials
• Literacy and creativity: classroom libraries, audiobooks, interactive storytelling kits
• Real-world experiences: student-run businesses, culinary programs, classroom animal projects
• Expenses typically not covered by school budgets and often purchased by educators out-of-pocket

Eligibility:

• Must be a Michigan educator
• Teaching in accredited schools (public, private, charter)
• Seeking funding for classroom projects that positively impact student educational experiences

Geographic Scope:

• Limited to Michigan schools
• 2025 recipients from:
  • Saginaw County
  • Wayne County
  • Gladwin County
  • Isabella County
  • Bay County
  • Midland County
  • Clare County

Contact Information:

• Email: community@mfcu.net
• Address: P.O. Box 2165, Midland, MI 48641
• Phone: 855.835.6328
• Grant Funding Manager: Emily Holty

Application Process

Specific application steps not detailed in provided website content. However, based on 2025 recipients, applicants appear to:

1. Describe Project: Outline the classroom project or resource need
2. Explain Impact: Detail how the grant would benefit students and enhance educational experience
3. Specify Use: Identify specific materials, equipment, or resources needed and approximate costs
4. Show Alignment: Connect project to educational standards and learning goals

Likely Required Materials (based on 2025 grants):

• Project proposal/description
• Budget breakdown
• Explanation of student impact
• School/grade level information
• Teaching subject/specialty area

Note: Detailed application instructions, submission portal, and specific narrative questions are not provided in the extracted website content. Contact community@mfcu.net for complete application details.