Empower U

Our Mission

Empower U, in partnership with our community, provides specialized instruction and opportunities specific to employment and independent living skills necessary for young adults to live a purposeful and productive life.

See the 2023-24 Empower U school calendar.

Tour Our Program

Core Skills

  • Adult Living Skills
  • Community Participation
  • Employability

Mission Implementation

  • We provide opportunities to practice and learn skills on job sites and in the community.
  • We provide instructional resources to meet young adults’ postsecondary vision in the areas of independent living, employment, and community participation.
  • We are committed to empowering young adults to reach their maximum potential and to encourage self-advocacy.
  • We provide opportunities and resources for young adults to communicate authentically, in all environments and advocate for their vision.
  • We provide positive behavior intervention supports and social emotional learning.
  • We are committed to partnering with families and collaborating with community supports and agencies.
  • We are committed to providing a safe and secure learning environment for all young adults.
  • We are committed to improving outcomes for all students through continuous improvement and implementing a system of supports. 

Mayfield Building (Main)

225 Mayfield Ave NE

Grand Rapids, MI 49503

616-410-4860
 

Straight School

850 Chatham St. NW

Grand Rapids, MI 49504

616-410-4420

 

Office Staff

John Kleff
Lead Administrator
Nic Bond
Assistant Administrator
Sheila Ewing
Administrative Assistant
Tara Kacher
Administrative Assistant