About Groundswell

Who We Are

Groundswell Stewardship Initiative started in 2007 with support from the Great Lakes Stewardship Initiative (GLSI), a Michigan nonprofit focused on caring for local communities and the Great Lakes. As one of six geographical hubs of the GLSI, Groundswell is a coalition of partners led by Grand Valley State University's Center for Educational Partnerships (CEP). We help teachers take learning beyond the classroom, giving students hands-on experiences in their communities to solve real-world environmental challenges.

Where We Work

The Groundswell Stewardship Initiative serves communities in Kent and Ottawa counties in West Michigan. These counties include diverse natural landscapes such as the Grand River watershed and Lake Michigan shoreline. We partner with schools, educators, and local organizations to develop hands-on environmental stewardship projects. Groundswell partners with all types of schools--including public schools, charter schools, and alternative education in both rural and urban settings.

We aim to support all schools, including under-resourced schools and disadvantaged populations through our programs that focus on stewardship and community building. By partnering with diverse districts, we empower young people with the knowledge, skills, and tools to make a positive change in their own communities.

Map of Michigan highlighting Kent and Ottawa counties in West Michigan

What We Do

Professional Learning Opportunities

A Groundswell Professional Learning Opportunity (PLO) is a hands-on learning experience for educators and community partners to deepen their understanding of PBSE through a variety of themes. Each PLO is facilitated by a local field expert, and we offer several throughout the academic year.

Project Funding

Groundswell supports projects that actively engage PreK–12 students and communities in hands-on environmental education and stewardship—such as habitat restoration, water quality monitoring, community gardening, and environmental art.

Partnerships

Engaging with Groundswell helps local businesses, non-profit organizations, and experts collaborate on projects, gain recognition, and impact conservation efforts. Community partnerships enhances student learning experiences, introduce new career pathways, and foster local stewardship.

How We Do It

Professional learning opportunities and State Continued Education Credit Hours (SCECHs)

Up to $1,500 in funds for school projects and on-site support for project work.

Partnership connections between schools, local community, and consultants.

Our Impact

roundswell program impact statistics: 42,537 students engaged, 334 projects completed, 1,045 teachers supported, 8,172 hours of teacher training provided, and 74 schools participating

Our Vision & Mission

Vision

All educators are champions of place-based stewardship education. All students are learning in our local community and are lifelong environmental stewards.

Mission

To support and inspire students to care for their place. We do this by providing educators with professional learning opportunities, project funding, and partnerships.