Making a Meaningful Impact

Pictured left to right: Tina Whitney, Dr. Blake Prewitt, Keith O'Reilly, Holly Moon, Eric Bulis, Melissa Miller, David Rosenbluth, and Megan Sharpe

Newaygo County Area Promise Zone Receives Generous $25,000 Donation from              Gerber Life Insurance 
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The Newaygo County Area Promise Zone is proud to announce a generous $25,000 donation from Gerber Life Insurance, marking the fourth consecutive year of significant support from the local company. This substantial contribution will help support the Promise Zone's ongoing efforts to provide post-secondary educational opportunities designed to create a brighter future for local students and families.

Gerber Life Insurance’s continued commitment to the Newaygo County Area Promise Zone is a testament to the company’s dedication to fostering educational opportunities and strengthening the local community.  “On behalf of Western and Southern Financial Group, Gerber Life Insurance is honored to support the Newaygo County Area Promise Zone,” said Vice President of Operations Luci Moore. “This essential program is crucial for our community. We recognize that education and training are key pathways to growth and opportunity, especially for our youth. Donations like this one help fund college scholarships, which in turn develop local talent that benefits businesses in our area, including Gerber Life Fremont.”
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The Newaygo County Area Promise Zone is a transformative scholarship opportunity aimed at increasing college access and success for students in the area regardless of their financial circumstances. By offering a tuition-free path to an associate degree from Muskegon Community College or up to $20,000 towards the cost of attendance at Ferris State University, the Promise Zone works to break down barriers to higher education and create pathways to success for Newaygo County graduates.

The $25,000 donation from Gerber Life Insurance will directly support scholarships for students in the Promise Zone that provide vital support for individuals striving for higher education opportunities. “Gerber Life's continued generosity has assisted us in providing success coaches for all of our Promise Scholars as well as expanding our Promise Scholarships to Ferris State University this year. They have been, and continue to be, a valuable community partner,” said Holly Moon, Promise Zone Fundraising Chair. 

Gerber Life Insurance has long been a cornerstone of support in its local community, prioritizing initiatives that positively impact families and individuals. This collaboration with the Newaygo County Area Promise Zone is yet another example of the company’s ongoing dedication to helping local communities grow and thrive. Their generous donation helps to ensure that the Newaygo County Area Promise Zone will continue to make a meaningful impact on local students and help create a brighter future for the entire community. 

Since its launch in 2017, the Newaygo County Area Promise Zone has awarded over $3 million in tuition payments, supporting over 429 Newaygo County students in pursuing their post-secondary education. 

The 2025 Promise Zone Scholarship online application is currently open, with a $50 late fee for submissions made by 4PM on June 3. For more information about the Newaygo County Area Promise Zone, visit www.promise.zone, email [email protected], or call 231.924.8888.