Thank You For Participating!
More than 100 Thompson and Charter Scholars participated in the Day of Service!
The Thompson and Charter Scholars in Action Day of Service is the First Annual event designed to bring together Thompson and Charter Scholars for a unified day of giving back. Inspired by the generosity and vision of Bob and Ellen Thompson, this day is more than a volunteer experience. It is a celebration of leadership, education, and the shared responsibility we have to uplift the communities around us.
This Day of Service highlights what happens when students come together with a common purpose. It allows scholars to step into real-world impact, build meaningful relationships with local organizations, and demonstrate the values of service and stewardship that the Thompsons modeled so well. By serving side by side, students not only support community needs but also discover their own capacity to lead, collaborate, and create positive change.
2026 Participating Nonprofits and Organizations
Adopt-A-Highway
Community Action House
Friends of Grand Rapids Parks
GR Recycling Services
Grace's Table
Hispanic Center
Hope Association
ICCF Community Homes
Revive and Thrive
Ripple Effect
The Salvation Army
Treetops Collective
What community partners will do
Community partners will welcome students to their service locations and provide an overview of their organization, including its mission and the work they do. They will guide students through assigned projects, supply the necessary materials or instructions, and ensure students have clear expectations for the day. Partners may also collaborate with staff to confirm the number of volunteers they can host, identify priority tasks, and offer feedback after the event to strengthen future service opportunities.
If this sounds good to you, please sign up to be a community partner today!
What students will do
Students will serve at assigned community partner sites and participate in meaningful, hands-on projects that support each organization’s mission. They will engage in tasks outlined by the community partner, follow instructions from staff, and contribute positively to the goals of the service day. Students will also learn about the work of each organization, reflect on their impact, and represent Thompson and Charter Scholars with professionalism, curiosity, and a willingness to help.
Photos from Scholars in Action Day of Service 2026
Saturday, March 28, 2026
Contact
Antone Williamson
Thompson and Charter Scholars Success Coordinator
Pronouns: he/him
Division of K-12 Education Innovation and Scholar Success
Grand Valley State University
1214 Kirkhof Center
Allendale, MI 49401
[email protected]