On February 28, 2026, the CMU College of Medicine Auditorium buzzed with excitement as mid-Michigan students gathered for the 11th Annual PITCH-ER THIS! Youth Venture Competition, hosted by United Way of Greater Central Michigan. This dynamic event invited 6th-12th grade students to pitch their ideas for improving their communities, with winning projects receiving funding to bring their visions to life.

Students from across the region presented projects aligned with United Way’s four impact areas: Healthy Community, Youth Opportunity, Financial Security, and Community Resiliency. Each team delivered a 5-10 minute presentation, explaining the need, cost, and timeline for their project, while also engaging judges and attendees through interactive table displays.

2026 Winners

We’re thrilled to fund four outstanding projects this year. First place went to Team “IM SAFE CAC”—made up of Ava Bowen (10th grade), Rain Pinnow (11th grade), Carleigh Thompson (12th grade), and Makenzie Rockafellow (12th grade) from Ionia High School and Central Montcalm High School. Their project, the “What I Was Wearing” exhibit, will educate the public about sexual and physical assault by presenting stories and clothing from individuals who have been affected. The exhibit emphasizes that assault can happen to anyone, regardless of time, place, or clothing. The team will take home the traveling trophy and funding to bring their vision to life.

Team “MPHS Memorial Garden” also earned funding for their project to revitalize an overlooked memorial garden at Mt. Pleasant High School. By adding greenery, shrubs, and a stone walkway, they plan to transform the space into a peaceful area for reflection and connection, while also providing a setting for outdoor classrooms like earth science. Their efforts will make the school a more welcoming and inspiring place for students and the community alike.

Another funded project comes from Team “Y.O.U. (Youth Utility Outreach)”, who plan to create a peer-run, pop-up Community Resource Hub. Operated by trained youth volunteers, the hub will provide basic necessities, local resource information, and a safe, welcoming environment for young people. Their goal is to empower youth through informal, supportive connections while raising awareness of resources in the community.

Finally, Team “Restroom Reno” from Carson City-Crystal Middle School’s National Junior Honor Society received funding to update the boys’ and girls’ bathrooms in the school’s front lobby. The team aims to refresh these high-traffic spaces, creating a clean, welcoming environment that reflects school pride and encourages students to give back to their community.

We extend a huge thank you to our 2026 PITCH-ER THIS! judges: Chelsea McKenzie (Members First Credit Union), Curtis Dancer (City of Alma), David Pietryla (Invenergy), and Tori Crawford (Isabella Bank), for sharing their expertise and supporting young innovators.

We also recognize the CMED Student Coordinators from CMU’s College of Medicine Class of 2029—Hayden Klamerus, Kevin Armitano Rozinay, Valeria Escobar Arango, and Grace Acosta—whose leadership helped make the event possible.

Inspiring the Next Generation

Congratulations to all the teams who participated in this year’s competition! Each student brought creativity, passion, and dedication to making a meaningful difference in their communities. This event is a shining example of how young people can drive positive change—and United Way is proud to support their efforts. Stay tuned to see the funded projects come to fruition!