Grant spotlight - Degree Forward Thumb region

Degree Forward Thumb Region is helping adults across Huron County and the Thumb complete college degrees, enhance their career options, and remain rooted in the communities they call home. With support from the Huron County Community Foundation, Degree Forward was able to expand and deepen its presence in the region, advancing shared goals around talent retention, workforce development, and long-term economic vitality.

Huron County Community Foundation, Huron County Economic Development Corporation, and Huron County Intermediate School District were initial partners in bringing Degree Forward to Huron County. The program is a Detroit based nonprofit organization providing project based, at your own pace degree programs through Southern New Hampshire University and one to one mentoring and support to ensure student success. 

In 2025, HCCF awarded $5,000 to support Degree Forward Thumb Region, with $2,500 from the Community Impact Fund and $2,500 from the Pointe Aux Barques Donor Advised Fund. These grant dollars helped ensure local students had the tools and support needed to persist and complete their degrees, particularly those balancing work, family, and other responsibilities while returning to school.

The program has already demonstrated strong results. Currently, 20 students are enrolled in Degree Forward Thumb Region. In 2025, four students graduated and four more will participate in Degree Forward’s graduation ceremony in June 2026. Two students have completed their bachelor’s degrees and two others have completed associate degrees and continued into bachelor’s programs. Several more students are expected to complete degrees in the coming year.

Just as important, Degree Forward is succeeding in retaining talent locally. All program graduates have remained in the Thumb Area, advancing their careers and contributing to the regional workforce. Graduates are now employed in upskilled roles at organizations including Cass City Schools, GST Michigan Works!, Cook’s GM Super Center, and the State of Michigan hospital in Caro, directly strengthening the local economy.

Grant funding has supported practical, high-impact needs within the program. Funds were used to expand access to technology by purchasing laptops that are loaned to students while enrolled, with eight currently in use and plans to purchase more. Grant dollars also supported the development of local marketing materials to raise awareness of Degree Forward in the Thumb, including upcoming outreach that features local students as the faces of the program. Together, these investments are helping more residents reach the finish line or begin degrees they have long considered, reinforcing HCCF’s commitment to talent retention and a stronger future for Huron County.