Educational
The Sterling Heights Area Community Foundation supports educational experiences that inspire curiosity, build skills, and prepare residents for future success. From student academic competitions and robotics programs to career exploration, literacy initiatives, and youth-focused community education, these investments help learners of all ages grow beyond the classroom. By partnering with local schools, libraries, and community organizations, SHACF helps create opportunities that encourage achievement, confidence, and lifelong learning.
Utica Community Schools Thunder Chickens Robotics Team
The Utica Community Schools ThunderChickens, FIRST Robotics Competition Team 217, give Sterling Heights-area students hands-on experience in engineering, programming, design, business, leadership, and teamwork. Founded in 1999 and based in Sterling Heights, the student-led team designs and builds competition robots while also sharing STEM learning with younger students through community outreach and robotics events. The ThunderChickens have earned recognition at the state, national, and international levels including a FIRST World Championship win in 2019. The program supports young students in innovation, dedication, and collaborative spirit of UCS students.
Macomb Science Olympiad
Macomb Science Olympiad gives middle and high school students across Macomb County the opportunity to explore science, technology, engineering, and mathematics through hands-on, team-based competition. As Michigan Science Olympiad Region 7, the program brings students together for events that challenge their knowledge, problem-solving, engineering design, and collaboration skills, with top teams advancing to the state tournament. Hosted through Macomb Community College and supported by dedicated educators, volunteers, and community partners, Macomb Science Olympiad helps inspire the next generation of scientists, engineers, health professionals, and innovators.
UCS Career Focus Luncheon
The UCS Career Focus Luncheon connects Utica Community Schools students with local professionals and community leaders to explore career pathways, workplace expectations, and opportunities for future success. Through meaningful conversations and real-world insight, students gain a better understanding of the education, skills, and experiences that can help them achieve their personal and professional goals. This event strengthens the connection between schools, employers, and the broader community while helping prepare students for life after graduation.
Library Summer Reading Program
The Sterling Heights Public Library Summer Reading Program keeps residents of all ages engaged in reading, learning, and community fun throughout the summer. Open to babies and tots, youth, teens, and adults, participants read or listen for at least 20 minutes a day, track their progress through Beanstack or paper logs, earn prizes and raffle entries, and can receive bonus entries by participating in library events. Each year’s program pairs reading with themed activities, including kickoff celebrations, scavenger hunts, story times, crafts, games, hands-on learning opportunities, and a finale celebration. All the activities try to aim helping make literacy a fun, accessible, and rewarding summer experience for the entire community.
City Police Department Drug Free Coalition Program
The Sterling Heights Drug-Free Coalition, in partnership with the Sterling Heights Police Department, works to prevent youth substance use through education, community collaboration, and outreach. A key focus is helping young people and families understand the risks of vaping and nicotine addiction, while challenging the misconception that e-cigarettes are harmless. Through prevention programs, awareness campaigns, youth activities, tobacco-vendor compliance efforts, and partnerships with schools and local organizations, the Coalition promotes healthy choices and gives residents practical resources to help protect Sterling Heights youth.