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Participating in Bowlapalooza Encourages Kids like Jace

Bowlapalooza 2025 is here! Bringing together caring supporters like you, Bowlapalooza supports the connection of area kids with positive role models. Register for Bowlapalooza today to ensure youth like Jace receive the guidance they need to thrive.

“It’s made me more friends,” says sixth-grader Jace about how being in TrueBlue Academy has impacted him. “I have a lot more confidence when I walk; I’ll have a little more pep in my step. I’m a little more confident. I’ll raise my hand more.” Being a part of TrueMentor’s TrueBlue Academy has given Jace the extra support and encouragement he needs to excel both inside and outside the classroom.

Jace has been participating in TrueBlue Academy for over a year and continues to grow socially, emotionally and academically through the program. He enjoys all the different activities and lessons, especially projects and games that involve teamwork. Spending this extra time with mentors and his peers has helped Jace regulate his emotions and be more mindful of those around him.

TrueBlue Academy is a part of TrueNorth’s youth mentoring program, TrueMentors. Jace is a part of the program that operates in partnership with Newaygo Public School where he attends the program once a week during the school day. The program is run by TrueNorth staff with help from the school’s Resource Officer, Theron Blake.

Officer Blake is in his second year volunteering with TrueBlue Academy. Building relationships with Jace and the other students and seeing them grow throughout the year has been the most rewarding part for him: “I’ve seen a lot of growth with kids as far as, you know, their relationship building and just how they interact with other kids from the beginning to now–a lot more respectful and understanding of each other. It’s really awesome to be able to witness kids improving.”

Jace especially has flourished in the program. Officer Blake remarks on Jace’s growth, “Self-control and awareness of other people and just overall respect for others, I’m seeing big jumps with him.” Knowing he has a support system at TrueBlue Academy has given Jace the encouragement and security he needs to thrive.

You can continue this impact when you register for Bowlapalooza. We will celebrate each person who raises $40 or more with a fun, free night of bowling at Fremont Lanes on a designated night. Sign up today for a fun event that will ultimately transform our children’s lives.