The American Indian Health and Family Services of Southeastern Michigan and Henry Ford Health are among the newest nonprofit organizations in southeast Michigan to receive $1.1 million in grants this year from Bank of America in its annual first round of grants, focused on improving the lives of individuals and families by investing in health and jobs.

RYSE MED High School Scholars practice suturing techniques in Henry Ford Health’s Simulation Lab

“It’s critically important to partner with Detroit nonprofit organizations to help address disparities in access to health care, education and employment as part of Bank of America’s commitment to supporting progress and economic mobility for all in Michigan,” said Matt Elliott, president, Bank of America Michigan, of the grants going to 30 nonprofits. “Our goal is to take action, and this funding helps provide the resources and support needed to help build thriving communities in our state long-term.”

A first-time grant recipient, the American Indian Health and Family Services of Southeastern Michigan (AIHFS) will use its funds to promote youth workforce development by providing salaries and other support to the group’s Summer Employment Program for young adults ages 18-24, providing these young people with valuable employment experience.

RYSE MED Scholars participate in mentoring circles with clinicians, scientists, and near-peer

“We are immensely thankful to Bank of America for their generous support that allows us to hire four dedicated young individuals for our summer youth program,” said Chasity Dial, AIHFS CEO. “This opportunity not only benefits the youth employees by providing invaluable work experience, but also significantly impacts our agency. Their involvement will enhance the effectiveness of our program, allowing us to better serve and empower the next generation of Native youth in Southeast Michigan. Together, with Bank of America’s support, we are creating a pathway for positive change and empowerment within our community.”

Henry Ford Health is another first-time grant recipient that plans to use its grant to support an intensive summer science and medical-focused program for high school students, exposing them to careers in the medical field. The Readying Youth Scientists for Excellence in Medicine, Health Equity, and Discovery Program (RYSE MED) to support students from backgrounds that are underrepresented in medicine and who face structural barriers to pursuing careers in healthcare and research.

RYSE MED High School Scholars practicing hands-only CPR

“We extend our heartfelt gratitude to The Bank of America Charitable Foundation for generously supporting our RYSE MED Program. With your invaluable contribution, we can continue nurturing bright, young minds and breaking down systemic barriers in healthcare. Together, we are fostering a future generation of diverse healthcare professionals dedicated to making a lasting impact on our community’s health. Thank you for believing in our mission and empowering us to create meaningful change,” said Dr. Martina Caldwell, MD, Medical Director at Henry Ford Medical Group’s Office of Diversity and Inclusion.

The bank is directing funding to nonprofit organizations providing prevention and access to healthcare, food access and nutrition, family stabilization and other poverty related issues, including:

ACCESS
American National Red Cross
United Community Family Services
Children’s Center of Wayne County
Food Gatherers
Forgotten Harvest
Haven, Inc.
Pope Francis Center
Ruth Ellis Center
SAY Detroit
Salvation Army
Lighthouse

The bank is also supporting nonprofits focused on workforce development opportunities like education, upskilling and reskilling programs that will help individuals and families stabilize and advance. Recipients include: