Oakland County Executive Dave Coulter announced the Acorn2Oak mini-grant program to empower residents 8 to 18 years old to pursue their passions and talents and the creation of a pilot mental health urgent care clinic during his 2023 State of the County address.

"These Acorn2Oak mini grants will help show our young people that we are confident and optimistic about their future," Coulter said. "I hope it will support, inspire and encourage personal growth, civic engagement and leadership development."

Coulter cited Oakland County's 22 robotics teams competing at the state level. If one or more of them qualifies for the First Robotics national competition to be held in Houston next month, it will cost about $1,200 per student to attend. An Acorn2Oak grant could ensure a student isn't left behind for an inability to pay. Other younger residents are in all ways, moving Oakland County forward volunteering at food pantries, providing entertainment at nursing homes, or sponsoring events to raise money for everything from animal shelters to children's hospitals. Acorn2Oak could pay for the cost of putting on these charitable events.

"These outstanding young people and so many more are taking public service to heart, not just to add a bullet point to their resume or college application, but to lead, innovate and lend a genuine hand to people in need in their communities," Coulter said.

Learn how to apply for an Acorn2Oak grant here:

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Meet the young people of Oakland County and hear the stories of how they are making a difference in their communities: