Summer Adventure Kits Keep Young Minds Learning
When summer break begins, so does the risk of the “summer slump”, a well-documented learning loss that can set students back, especially in early elementary years. But thanks to a continued partnership between United Way of Greater Central Michigan and Mercantile Bank, and in collaboration with the Gratiot-Isabella RESD, students across Gratiot and Isabella counties were equipped to keep their minds active and engaged, even while on the move.
This summer, over 1,000 Summer Adventure Kits were distributed to every first grader in both counties. Each kit was thoughtfully designed to be both fun and educational, helping children continue learning in a way that feels like play.
So, what’s inside?
Brain Quest Smart Cards — Tailored for first-grade learning levels, these engaging cards cover math, language arts, and science using a question-and-answer format to engage students in a fun and interactive way that reinforces classroom learning.
An Age-Appropriate Book — Promoting literacy at a crucial time in a child’s development, each kit included a high-quality book to encourage reading at home.
Color-Changing Mood Pencil & Clipboard — The little things matter! These fun tools give kids a tactile way to engage with their activities and feel “ready to learn” wherever they are.
Custom Activity Booklet — Packed with puzzles, jokes, questions, and games, this booklet turns downtime into brain time, whether at home, on vacation, or waiting in the car.
And speaking of the car—each kit came in a custom-designed tote that hooks onto the back of a car seat, making it the perfect companion for summer road trips, errands, or afternoons at the park.
"We’re incredibly proud to partner with Mercantile Bank to help ensure students have the tools they need to keep learning year-round," said Annie Sanders, President & CEO of United Way of Greater Central Michigan. "These kits aren’t just supplies, they’re a boost of confidence, curiosity, and joy for kids in our community."
Why It Matters
According to MiSchoolData, only 28.9% of students in Gratiot and Isabella counties are proficient in English Language Arts by third grade, a critical benchmark for long-term academic success. Without regular engagement over the summer, that gap only grows.
Children who continue to explore books, questions, and creative thinking during the summer return to school better prepared, more confident, and less likely to fall behind their peers. This kind of early investment pays off—not just in classroom performance, but in long-term success and a lifelong love of learning.
Thank you, Mercantile Bank, for being a champion of early literacy and learning! Learn more about how you can partner to support United Way’s efforts in our community at unitedwaygcm.org/become-a-partner.
