Learn by Doing

Every MI-IMPACT project and program puts materials in youth hands.

Apply from Anywhere

Our application process is simple and streamline – works on your phone, tablet or computer.

Open Across Michigan

From the U.P. to the thumb, and G.R. to Detroit, our programs are open to all eligible Michigan youth.

Free to Participate

MI-IMPACT Foundation is fully endowed. Admitted youth participate at no cost.

A Message From Our Founders

MI-IMPACT was built on the simple belief: every Michigan Youth deserves the opportunity to learn meaningful, life-long skills. Not just classroom skills or those taught in a traditional school setting – real, hands-on, traditional and practical skills. We started this foundation because we saw a need in Michigan and believed direct resources to youth in our State could make a difference. The future is bright for each of our participants.

Dennis & Kathy Z.

MI-IMPACT Foundation believes that every young person in Michigan deserves access to educational opportunities centered around innovation, creativity, preservation, and community. Our programs encourage youth to learn traditional skills they can use within their family and community — no matter where they live or what their background is.

  • Inclusive programs for all Michigan youth

  • Simple application process

  • Hands-on learning with real materials

  • Sustainable skills built for life

FOUNDED

2023

MI-IMPACT Foundation was established in Michigan by a husband and wife with a shared vision — invest in youth today so Michigan thrives tomorrow.

MI-IMPACT provides simple, sustainable projects and programs that IMPACT Michigan youth. Our participants Innovate, Make, Preserve, Achieve, better their Community, and Thrive as adults. We believe that investing in youth today will build a brighter, more skilled Michigan tomorrow.

MI-IMPACT Foundation began with a simple idea over five years ago – invest in Michigan. The Foundation’s Youth Program began in July 2023 providing programs and projects to increase youth skills. In 2024 the Foundation expanded to include a Veteran Program providing meaning resources to those who served. Now a dual-purpose organization — MI-Impact combines the founders’ shared passions under one umbrella. A Michigan wife’s dedication to preserving traditional skills and hands-on learning for youth, and her husband’s commitment to veteran services (rooted in his own military background), became the two pillars of MI-IMPACT.

MI-IMPACT’s Youth Program envisions a Michigan where every young person — regardless of zip code, demographics, income, or background — has access to hands-on programs that build real, lasting skills. We’re building a future where MI-IMPACT programs reach youth across the state.  

Meet Our Team

MI-IMPACT is run by a small, dedicated team that believes in the mission personally — not just professionally. Every program, every application, every update is handled by real people who care about Michigan kids.

Vincent Mayer

School Co-Founder

A dedicated educator since 2009 – Serving as school’s department head. Director of academics for grades K-12. He has been recognized with a number of awards and Certificates.

Marilyn Quintero

Executive Director

She integrates technology and literature circles to help students develop a lifelong love of language. Marilyn sponsors the school’s Creative Writing Club and is an avid reader of history.

Jayson Gaither

Director of Academics

Prepares students for the digital future with engaging lessons in programming, cybersecurity and app design. He teaches both introductory coding and AP Computer Science to students.

Vincent Mayer

School Co-Founder

A dedicated educator since 2009 – Serving as school’s department head. Director of academics for grades K-12. He has been recognized with a number of awards and Certificates.

Marilyn Quintero

Executive Director

She integrates technology and literature circles to help students develop a lifelong love of language. Marilyn sponsors the school’s Creative Writing Club and is an avid reader of history.

Jayson Gaither

Director of Academics

Prepares students for the digital future with engaging lessons in programming, cybersecurity and app design. He teaches both introductory coding and AP Computer Science to students.

Angela Space O’Rourke

Executive Director/CLO

Angela is an attorney, domestic mediator, and founder of Space Law, PLC, with a focus on conflict resolution and client interpersonal growth. She has been working in the legal field since 2001 and opened her own practice in 2019, with a focus on family law, estates and probate matters.

Angela brings enthusiasm, drive and thoughtfulness to her role at MI-IMPACT.

Outside of the legal field, Angela is also:

🌱 An organic gardener
🐐 Lives on a hobby farm with her spouse, children and 30+ rescued animals
💃 A dance instructor who has been teaching children for over 20 years
👨‍👧‍👦 A busy parent

Her creativity and dedication to families helps MI-IMPACT provide fun learning opportunities to youth throughout Michigan.

Nicole Jabour

Director of Youth Programs

Nicole has 20 years of experience helping students and young professionals launch successful futures, she has led recruiting and leadership programs at Michigan State University, Meta, Grant Thornton, and Boeing.
Nicole brings energy, creativity, and a big heart to everything she does.

Outside of the boardroom, Nicole is also:

📖An avid novel reader
🎉Loves to plan (and attend) parties and special events
🏝️Travels to sunny destinations with her spouse, children and family
👨‍👧‍👦 A busy parent

Her organization and professional communication helps MI-IMPACT provide skill-based learning opportunities to youth throughout Michigan.

Vincent Mayer

School Co-Founder

A dedicated educator since 2009 – Serving as school’s department head. Director of academics for grades K-12. He has been recognized with a number of awards and Certificates.

Marilyn Quintero

Executive Director

She integrates technology and literature circles to help students develop a lifelong love of language. Marilyn sponsors the school’s Creative Writing Club and is an avid reader of history.

Jayson Gaither

Director of Academics

Prepares students for the digital future with engaging lessons in programming, cybersecurity and app design. He teaches both introductory coding and AP Computer Science to students.

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Programs Designed for Real Life

Michigan youth deserve the opportunity to develop life skills no matter their socioeconomic background or geographic location. MI-IMPACT provides hands-on programs that are simple to apply for, free to participate in, and built around skills that actually matter — whether you’re in Detroit, the UP, or anywhere in between.

  • Apply in about 10 minutes from any phone, PC, tablet or device
  • All materials provided (and often shipped directly to your door)
  • Various programs open to Michigan youth ages 6-24

14

Programs Offered

800+

Michigan Kids Served