More than 3,000 high school-aged youth in Flint are currently disconnected from both school and work — highlighting the need for bold, innovative solutions. GearUp2Lead is meeting that challenge with a student-centered model built on community partnerships, mental health support and real-world experience. In this Q&A, the GearUp Pathway team shares how they’re helping students reconnect and rediscover their purpose.
What does Community Ed mean to GearUp2Lead and how are you bringing it back to Flint?
We’re bringing Community Education back to Flint through strategic partnerships with key local institutions. This means our students gain direct, hands-on experiences with: the YMCA for health and wellness, the Flint Institute of Arts (FIA) for cultural and creative development, Factory Two for vocational and maker skills, along with various other area organizations.
What mental health or emotional support services do you offer?
Our Success Navigators conduct thorough needs assessments to identify each student’s specific challenges. We partner with Genesee Health System (GHS), ensuring students access to qualified mental and behavioral health professionals when needed. Through our partnership with the Crim Fitness Foundation, we provide Mindfulness and Yoga sessions to build coping skills and foster emotional resilience.
How is GearUp2Lead different from traditional education models?
While most schools look essentially the same as they did 100 years ago – entrenched in a “one-size-fits-all” approach that leaves many students disconnected and struggling to learn – the GearUp Pathway prepares students to pursue a meaningful career through a blending of character formation, life skills development and work experiences. The GearUp Pathway is the result of rethinking the traditional educational model to better prepare our youth for the future.
