Latest Events in Grand Rapids(July Updated)

Van Andel Institute for Education (VAI) honors the person and the profession! We know teachers have the most important job in the world; that’s why we support the whole teacher. This conference was designed by experts and current classroom teachers to provide research-based, classroom-tested, and inquiry-oriented content that supports your classroom expectations, your content standards, and you as a person. Join us in creating a classroom culture that supports STEAM instruction while also nurturing your own curiosity for personal growth and enjoyment. And during some very challenging times, you’ll see that you’re not alone with many networking opportunities for you to engage with other teachers by grade level and content area. Establish a classroom culture to support STEAM instruction Explore standards-aligned lessons by grade level with STEAM integration Network with like-minded educators in your grade and interest area Nurture your own curiosity and personal growth Celebrate the amazing work you do! Registration includes: Two days of inspiration, exploration, and practical takeaways Opportunities to network with like-minded teachers Breakfast, lunch, and VIP treatment - because YOU deserve it! *With the paid registration of a staff member, an administrator from the same building/district may attend for free. Free administrator registrations are nontransferable. To receive the free offer, administrators must register by phone with the name of a paid registrant. Call 616-234-5528. Purchase Orders: Email your registration with purchase order to information@vaei.org . Note: Please do NOT email VAI your credit card information. Please call or register online. Science on the Grand is valued at $800 but is subsidized by the Van Andel Institute and our generous donors, making it an affordable experience for educators! Information Source: Van Andel Institute for Education | eventbrite

Certificate: Course Completion Certificate | Duration: 8 Hours Delivery Mode: In-house/ Classroom / Online Language: English | Credits: 8 Snacks, beverages, and lunch will be provided during the session. Course Overview In a rapidly changing and complex world, effective leadership requires more than strategic thinking—it calls for deep self-awareness, emotional intelligence, presence, and purpose. Consciousness in Leadership – A Holistic Approach is an immersive course designed to guide leaders on a transformational journey from the inside out. Drawing from mindfulness, somatic intelligence, systems thinking, and spiritual insight, this course helps participants cultivate authentic presence, make values-aligned decisions, and lead with clarity, compassion, and impact. Through reflective practices, real-world application, and experiential learning, participants will learn to embody a leadership style that is resilient, relational, and consciously connected to the greater whole. Key Takeaways: By the end of this workshop, participants will be able to: ● Define conscious leadership and explain its relevance in modern, values- driven organizations. ● Cultivate deeper self-awareness by identifying personal values, emotional triggers, and inner patterns. ● Apply mindfulness and somatic practices to enhance presence, clarity, and decision-making. ● Demonstrate empathy and conscious communication in interpersonal and team interactions. ● Align leadership actions with a clear sense of purpose, integrity, and long-term impact. ● Recognize organizations as interconnected systems and make decisions that consider broader consequences. ● Integrate daily reflective rituals and grounding techniques into their leadership practice. ● Commit to ongoing inner work as a foundation for leading authentically and holistically. Course Inclusions : Comprehensive Course Manual Presentation Slides Note: No exam is required to complete this course. Target Audience: This course is designed for leaders, managers, and professionals who are committed to personal growth, authentic leadership, and cultivating conscious, values-driven workplaces. It is ideal for those seeking to integrate self-awareness, mindfulness, empathy, and systemic thinking into their leadership practice to drive meaningful and sustainable impact. ©2025 Academy for Pros. This content is protected by copyright law. Copy or Reproduction without permission is prohibited. If you are a company that is striving to do more with less, empowering internal leaders is your greatest ROI, then this is your sign to host effective leadership skills training for your internal team. This is not just a development initiative—it’s a strategic investment in the future of your organization. Reach out to us today to discuss and arrange a face-to-face in-house training for your team. corporate@academyforpros.com | info@academyforpros.com Information Source: Academy for Pros | eventbrite

Certificate: Course Completion Certificate | Duration: 8 Hours Delivery Mode: In-house/ Classroom / Online Language: English | Credits: 8 Snacks, beverages, and lunch will be provided during the session. Course Overview Emotional Intelligence (EI) is the capacity to recognize, understand, and manage one’s emotions, while also being aware of and influencing the emotions of others. Although the foundational concepts have existed since the early 20th century, the term was popularized by Wayne Payne in 1985. This interactive workshop empowers participants to enhance self-awareness and self-management. Developing these core EI competencies can positively impact both professional performance and personal relationships. Key Takeaways: Understand the Emotional Intelligence competency framework. Evaluate your current level of emotional intelligence. Apply techniques to maintain a high level of positivity and energy. Handle high-pressure situations and maintain high standards. Cultivate emotional resilience and maturity. Take responsibility for emotions and avoid blame or complaints. Apply emotional intelligence strategies in the workplace. Recognize how emotions affect thinking, goal-setting, relationships, and decisions. Course Inclusions : Comprehensive Course Manual Presentation Slides Note: No exam is required to complete this course. Target Audience: This course is ideal for anyone interested in improving their emotional intelligence skills, regardless of profession or experience level. ©2025 Academy for Pros. This content is protected by copyright law. Copy or Reproduction without permission is prohibited. Investing in Emotional Intelligence training for your team can significantly enhance collaboration, leadership, and overall workplace culture. This workshop will equip your employees with practical tools to manage emotions, communicate with empathy, and navigate challenges with resilience. As a result, you'll see stronger teamwork, improved client interactions, reduced conflicts, and a more engaged, productive workforce—making it a smart, future-focused investment for your organization’s growth and success. corporate@academyforpros.com | info@academyforpros.com Information Source: Academy for Pros | eventbrite

Come meet author Cathy Rueter as she discusses her thrilling new novel Murder May I. There will be time for audience Q&A and book signing at the end! About the Book: Dallas clothing designer, Jennifer Clark, wants to get through the next show before her style house’s respected reputation is tarnished by further mishaps. But someone is playing dangerous games at the expense of Jen and the Lilac Lane Fashions family. When the scheme turns murderous, beautiful Caribbean Marshall, Jen’s best friend and lead model, falls victim. About the Author: A former bridal accessories designer, Cathy Rueter blends her enthusiasm for fashion with a keen interest in not-quite-cozy Christian Murder Mysteries. Originally from Michigan, Cathy currently resides in Texas. You can learn more about Cathy and her CLeaRly Creative Community at cathyrueter.com Information Source: Baker Book House | eventbrite

Step into the world of biomedical research in this immersive one-day summer camp! Students will explore the power of model organisms in scientific discovery through hands-on activities at VAI Education. They’ll also get a behind-the-scenes look at real-world research at VAI Research, working directly with live organisms—sorting embryos, analyzing traits, and testing environmental conditions, just like professional scientists. The day will also include an exclusive panel discussion with biomedical researchers, offering insight into careers in science. Discover how tiny creatures lead to big breakthroughs in human health! *Lunch is included Refund Policy: Full refunds will be given if requested more than 7 days before the start date of your camp. Partial refunds (50% tuition) will be given if requested 7 days or less of the start date of your camp. EventBrite fees are nonrefundable. Information Source: Van Andel Institute for Education | eventbrite

A new Dance Series is happening! Check it out! “Pasos Sueltos Series” - Bachata Edition Get ready to embark on a joyful dance journey with our Pasos Sueltos Series! This series is perfect for those who want to explore dance in a fun, and authentic way. No partner? No problem! Pasos Sueltos is all about embracing the freedom to dance solo and express yourself fully! Dancing is a profound expression of self-love and liberation. In this class, you'll: Discover the strength and beauty within you. Cultivate confidence and self-awareness through dance. Unleash your creativity while exploring new techniques and styles. Reignite your passion for life in a supportive, uplifting environment. Singlehood isn’t about what’s missing—it’s about celebrating everything you already have and all that’s yet to come. Come dance with me, and let’s honor this delicious chapter of life together! Details: - Age Requirement: 21+ - No partner necessary: Come as you are and dance freely! - Authentic Approach: Our Pasos Sueltos series is designed to honor the essence of each dance style, focusing on personal expression and connection with the music rather than the ballroom approach. Feel the rhythm, and express your individuality. - Dance Barefoot: Get ready to connect with the floor and enjoy the dance experience to its fullest. - All Levels Welcome: Everyone is invited to join and enjoy the fun! Don’t miss this opportunity to dance, connect, and express yourself. Bring friends! Reserve your spot today, and let’s dance! *Choreographer, teacher, and performer, Laura Armenta , will lead you through the fundamentals, helping you establish a solid base in this popular dance genre. Remember to bring water and prepare to have an unforgettable time! pm Information Source: Armentality Movement Arts Center | eventbrite

Step into the world of biomedical research in this immersive one-day summer camp! Students will explore the power of model organisms in scientific discovery through hands-on activities at VAI Education. They’ll also get a behind-the-scenes look at real-world research at VAI Research, working directly with live organisms—sorting embryos, analyzing traits, and testing environmental conditions, just like professional scientists. The day will also include an exclusive panel discussion with biomedical researchers, offering insight into careers in science. Discover how tiny creatures lead to big breakthroughs in human health! *Lunch is included Refund Policy: Full refunds will be given if requested more than 7 days before the start date of your camp. Partial refunds (50% tuition) will be given if requested 7 days or less of the start date of your camp. EventBrite fees are nonrefundable. Information Source: Van Andel Institute for Education | eventbrite

Welcome to Rapids Radio Rockfest Presented by Deerwood Bank ! Get ready to rock out in the parking lot behind Rapids Brewing Company with Warrant, April Wine and Molly Hatchet . Rapids Radio has teamed up with Deerwood Bank and the City of Grand Rapids for a night filled with live music, great drinks, food, and awesome company. This event is the perfect opportunity to let loose and enjoy some killer tunes. Don't miss out on this EPIC night of music, community and fun! Keep checking back to this page for further updates as we get closer to show! For more information contact Rapids Radio at 218-999-5699 Rapids Radio Rockfest would not be possible without the help of the City of Grand Rapids and our following sponsors! Title Sponsor -Deerwood Bank Elite Sponsors -Rapids Brewing Company and Super One Foods Gold Sponsors -S and S Meats, Pokegama Liquor, Iseman Homes, Paul Bunyan Communications, Northanland Portables, A&B Mishaps, Dairy Queen, and Rays Sport and Cycle. Silver Sponsors -Greater Insurance Services, Cabinet Corner, Benders, Edge of the Wilderness Realty, Carquest, Remer Motel and Campground, The Locker Room, Mr. Furnace, Automtive Electric, Mississippi Diamond Jewlers, Roth RV, Forest Lake Restaurant, C and L Distributing, Hotel Rapids, Hibbing Chrysler, Coldwell Banker-Northwoods Realty, The Up North Team, Edward Jones, Hannah Aldrich-Keller Williams Realty, Rays Sport and Marine. Rockfest Vendors -Harry's Bar and Grill, Timberwolf Inn, Sammy's, NOPO Kitchen, Klockow Brewing, Buns-To-Go, Rapids Brewing Company, Schweiby's Concessions, Aunt Edmoe's Homemade Chocolate Chip Cookies, Heroes Rise Coffee Additional Sponors include - Skoglund Electric, My Place Hotel, and Minuteman Press Information Source: Rapids Radio | eventbrite

Welcome to Rapids Radio Rockfest Presented by Deerwood Bank ! Get ready to rock out in the parking lot behind Rapids Brewing Company with Warrant, April Wine and Molly Hatchet . Rapids Radio has teamed up with Deerwood Bank and the City of Grand Rapids for a night filled with live music, great drinks, food, and awesome company. This event is the perfect opportunity to let loose and enjoy some killer tunes. Don't miss out on this EPIC night of music, community and fun! Keep checking back to this page for further updates as we get closer to show! For more information contact Rapids Radio at 218-999-5699 Rapids Radio Rockfest would not be possible without the help of the City of Grand Rapids and our following sponsors! Title Sponsor -Deerwood Bank Elite Sponsors -Rapids Brewing Company and Super One Foods Gold Sponsors -S and S Meats, Pokegama Liquor, Iseman Homes, Paul Bunyan Communications, Northanland Portables, A&B Mishaps, Dairy Queen, and Rays Sport and Cycle. Silver Sponsors -Greater Insurance Services, Cabinet Corner, Benders, Edge of the Wilderness Realty, Carquest, Remer Motel and Campground, The Locker Room, Mr. Furnace, Automtive Electric, Mississippi Diamond Jewlers, Roth RV, Forest Lake Restaurant, C and L Distributing, Hotel Rapids, Hibbing Chrysler, Coldwell Banker-Northwoods Realty, The Up North Team, Edward Jones, Hannah Aldrich-Keller Williams Realty, Rays Sport and Marine. Rockfest Vendors -Harry's Bar and Grill, Timberwolf Inn, Sammy's, NOPO Kitchen, Klockow Brewing, Buns-To-Go, Rapids Brewing Company, Schweiby's Concessions, Aunt Edmoe's Homemade Chocolate Chip Cookies, Heroes Rise Coffee Additional Sponors include - Skoglund Electric, My Place Hotel, and Minuteman Press Information Source: Rapids Radio | eventbrite

Information Source: Michael Sadler Foundation | eventbrite

Join Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services for a week of fun, Monday, July 21- Friday, July 25, 2024, from 9 am -12 pm each day! A full week focused on Deaf, DeafBlind, and Hard of Hearing kids. Kids Kamp will be held at West Oakview Elementary School, located at 3880 Stuyvesant Ave NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49525. *TUESDAY WILL BE HELD OFFSITE * On Tuesday we will be at the Rockford Equest Center located at 3777 Rector Ave NE, Rockford, MI 49341. Parents will need to pick up and drop off at the Equest Center for this day. Kamp is open to children ages 3-12 . (All participants must be potty trained and out of diapers/pull-ups) Fun activities all week with different themes every day! Snacks are included each day. Early Bird ticket until July 5 is $85 for the first child and $70 for each additional child. After July 5 the cost is $95 for the first child and $80 for each additional child. Discounts available for single day attendees. Contact echapin@deafhhs.org for options. Scholarships are available! Contact datwood@deafhhs.org for more information. Scholarship registration requires a code before you can sign up! Registration closes July 18th at 5pm. Refunds available until registration closes. NO REFUNDS WILL BE GIVEN AFTER JULY 18TH AT 5 PM. The Eventbrite fees are non-refundable. If you need additional accommodations, please contact Erica Chapin at 616-732-7358 or echapin@deafhhs.org. ASL Interpreters will be provided. Information Source: Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services | eventbrite

How can the music of Taylor Swift ignite student curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking? Find out in Swiftie Science -- a STEM camp for Swifties! In this camp, campers will dive into hands-on projects inspired by Taylor’s music! They'll design dazzling "Bejeweled" light-up jewelry, engineer structures that stand up to anything with the "Shake It Off" challenge and explore "Blank Space" through out-of-this-world engineering challenges. Whether they're a "Fearless" problem solver or a science "Mastermind," this camp blends Swifties favorite songs with STEM adventures. Explore the exciting world of science, technology, engineering, and math, all while jamming out to Taylor’s greatest hits! Guided Activities Design "bejeweled" circuitry bracelets -- not only will we make the whole place shimmer, but we will make it light up as well! Engineer sturdy structures that can withstand the ‘shake, shake, shake’ of an earthquake simulation. Transform Spheros into Mars rovers, programming their own path across the ‘blank space’ of Mars to "fearless"ly explore, conquer challenges, and discover the unknown. Refund Policy: Full refunds will be given if requested more than 7 days before the start date of your camp. Partial refunds (50% tuition) will be given if requested 7 days or less of the start date of your camp. E ventBrite fees are nonrefundable. Information Source: Van Andel Institute for Education | eventbrite

Calling all young sorcerers and enchantresses! Set out on a magical journey like no other at the Witches and Wizards Grand Rapids School of Sorcery and Wizardry! Campers will enter a realm of fantasy where they’ll hone their magical talents, craft their very own wand, and enroll in mystical classes such as Potion-Making, Transformations, and Caring for Enchanted Creatures! Finally, they’ll utilize their newfound skills to partake in an exciting tournament at the end of the camp. Guided Activities Meet the Sorting Hat and let it determine which mystical house they belong in. Participate in a different magical class each day to become a more experienced witch or wizard. Earn House points to win the House Cup at the end of the week. Use all their newfound knowledge to compete in a magical tournament. Interview a real scientist from the Van Andel Research Institute. Refund Policy: Full refunds will be given if requested more than 7 days before the start date of your camp. Partial refunds (50% tuition) will be given if requested 7 days or less of the start date of your camp. EventBrite fees are nonrefundable. Information Source: Van Andel Institute for Education | eventbrite

Calling all young sorcerers and enchantresses! Set out on a magical journey like no other at the Witches and Wizards Grand Rapids School of Sorcery and Wizardry! Campers will enter a realm of fantasy where they’ll hone their magical talents, craft their very own wand, and enroll in mystical classes such as Potion-Making, Transformations, and Caring for Enchanted Creatures! Finally, they’ll utilize their newfound skills to partake in an exciting tournament at the end of the camp. Guided Activities Meet the Sorting Hat and let it determine which mystical house they belong in. Participate in a different magical class each day to become a more experienced witch or wizard. Earn House points to win the House Cup at the end of the week. Use all their newfound knowledge to compete in a magical tournament. Interview a real scientist from the Van Andel Research Institute. Refund Policy: Full refunds will be given if requested more than 7 days before the start date of your camp. Partial refunds (50% tuition) will be given if requested 7 days or less of the start date of your camp. EventBrite fees are nonrefundable. Information Source: Van Andel Institute for Education | eventbrite

Get ready for an out-of-this-world adventure where campers design and build their own colony on Mars! They'll discover what it takes to survive on the Red Planet by exploring its unique environment, then team up to create a futuristic Martian settlement. Finally, they will electrify their Martian base and use programming to bring the colony to life. It's a journey that's sure to spark their imagination and unleash their inner engineer! Guided Activities Learn about circuits and add power to a Martian colony. Learn about inputs and outputs and program a base to respond to its environment. Discover what is fact and fiction about the red planet and use their knowledge to design a colony. Refund Policy: Full refunds will be given if requested more than 7 days before the start date of your camp. Partial refunds (50% tuition) will be given if requested 7 days or less of the start date of your camp. EventBrite fees are nonrefundable. Information Source: Van Andel Institute for Education | eventbrite

Get ready for an out-of-this-world adventure where campers design and build their own colony on Mars! They'll discover what it takes to survive on the Red Planet by exploring its unique environment, then team up to create a futuristic Martian settlement. Finally, they will electrify their Martian base and use programming to bring the colony to life. It's a journey that's sure to spark their imagination and unleash their inner engineer! Guided Activities Learn about circuits and add power to a Martian colony. Learn about inputs and outputs and program a base to respond to its environment. Discover what is fact and fiction about the red planet and use their knowledge to design a colony. Refund Policy: Full refunds will be given if requested more than 7 days before the start date of your camp. Partial refunds (50% tuition) will be given if requested 7 days or less of the start date of your camp. EventBrite fees are nonrefundable. Information Source: Van Andel Institute for Education | eventbrite

Embrace the power of mini but mighty living in our Tiny Town camp! Young architects and engineers will learn the essentials of designing small-scale, sustainable homes. Using time-tested principles of architecture and engineering, campers will draft blueprints and construct tiny model homes that maximize space without sacrificing style. By the end of the day, each camper will showcase a unique tiny home, learning that good things truly come in small packages! Guided Activities Discover unique and space-saving solutions used by people around the world. Explore the difference between architecture and engineering. Design and build a tiny dream home. Refund Policy: Full refunds will be given if requested more than 7 days before the start date of your camp. Partial refunds (50% tuition) will be given if requested 7 days or less of the start date of your camp. EventBrite fees are nonrefundable. Information Source: Van Andel Institute for Education | eventbrite

Embrace the power of mini but mighty living in our Petite Properties camp! Young architects and engineers will learn the essentials of designing small-scale, sustainable homes. Using time-tested principles of architecture and engineering, campers will draft blueprints and construct tiny model homes that maximize space without sacrificing style. By the end of the day, each camper will showcase a unique tiny home, learning that good things truly come in small packages! Guided Activities Discover unique and space saving solutions used by people around the world. Explore the difference between architecture and engineering. Design and build a tiny dream home. Refund Policy: Full refunds will be given if requested more than 7 days before the start date of your camp. Partial refunds (50% tuition) will be given if requested 7 days or less of the start date of your camp. EventBrite fees are nonrefundable. Information Source: Van Andel Institute for Education | eventbrite

Embrace the power of mini but mighty living in our Petite Properties camp! Young architects and engineers will learn the essentials of designing small-scale, sustainable homes. Using time-tested principles of architecture and engineering, campers will draft blueprints and construct tiny model homes that maximize space without sacrificing style. By the end of the day, each camper will showcase a unique tiny home, learning that good things truly come in small packages! Guided Activities Discover unique and space saving solutions used by people around the world. Explore the difference between architecture and engineering. Design and build a tiny dream home. Refund Policy: Full refunds will be given if requested more than 7 days before the start date of your camp. Partial refunds (50% tuition) will be given if requested 7 days or less of the start date of your camp. EventBrite fees are nonrefundable. Information Source: Van Andel Institute for Education | eventbrite

Embrace the power of mini but mighty living in our Mini Mansions camp! Young architects and engineers will learn the essentials of designing small-scale, sustainable homes. Using time-tested principles of architecture and engineering, campers will draft blueprints and construct tiny model homes that maximize space without sacrificing style. They will also consider ways to sustainably power and illuminate their Mini Mansions. By the end of the day, each camper will showcase a unique tiny home with working lights, demonstrating that good things truly come in small packages! Guided Activities Discover unique and space saving solutions used by people around the world. Explore the difference between architecture and engineering. Design and build their dream tiny home. Refund Policy: Full refunds will be given if requested more than 7 days before the start date of your camp. Partial refunds (50% tuition) will be given if requested 7 days or less of the start date of your camp. EventBrite fees are nonrefundable. Information Source: Van Andel Institute for Education | eventbrite

Embrace the power of mini but mighty living in our Mini Mansions camp! Young architects and engineers will learn the essentials of designing small-scale, sustainable homes. Using time-tested principles of architecture and engineering, campers will draft blueprints and construct tiny model homes that maximize space without sacrificing style. They will also consider ways to sustainably power and illuminate their Mini Mansions. By the end of the day, each camper will showcase a unique tiny home with working lights, demonstrating that good things truly come in small packages! Guided Activities Discover unique and space saving solutions used by people around the world. Explore the difference between architecture and engineering. Design and build their dream tiny home. Refund Policy: Full refunds will be given if requested more than 7 days before the start date of your camp. Partial refunds (50% tuition) will be given if requested 7 days or less of the start date of your camp. EventBrite fees are nonrefundable. Information Source: Van Andel Institute for Education | eventbrite

Get ready for a wild adventure at Bug Bash Summer Camp! Campers will compete in the Bug Olympics with crazy mimicry races, Build-a-Bug creations, and epic bug hunts, all to see which insect rises above the rest. Together, we'll leap into the fascinating world of insects through interactive activities and hands-on experiments, all while making new friends and having a blast! Guided Activities Bug Olympics: Organize mimicry races where participants imitate the movements of different bugs. Build-a-Bug: Design and construct unique bug models, focusing on different features. Bug Hunt: Search in and around Van Andel Institute for various bugs, identifying and collecting information about them. Exploration: Explore different habitats to observe bugs in their natural environments and learn about their behaviors. Refund Policy: Full refunds will be given if requested more than 7 days before the start date of your camp. Partial refunds (50% tuition) will be given if requested 7 days or less of the start date of your camp. EventBrite fees are nonrefundable. Information Source: Van Andel Institute for Education | eventbrite

Welcome to the fascinating world of zoology and conservation! Here, campers collaborate to create enclosures, habitats, and enriching environments for a variety of animals. They'll learn what each species needs to survive as they create their own model of a zoo. This hands-on experience will leave participants with a new understanding of wildlife, design skills, and a passion for the animal kingdom. Guided Activities Discover what all animals need to survive in their environment. Get up close to animals and learn about their structural and behavioral traits. Assess how well a zoo's habitats meet the needs of their animals. Design and build their own model of a zoo to accommodate the needs of their unique population. Refund Policy: Full refunds will be given if requested more than 7 days before the start date of your camp. Partial refunds (50% tuition) will be given if requested 7 days or less of the start date of your camp. EventBrite fees are nonrefundable. Information Source: Van Andel Institute for Education | eventbrite

Welcome to the fascinating world of zoology and conservation! Here, campers collaborate to create enclosures, habitats, and enriching environments for a variety of animals. They'll learn what each species needs to survive as they create their own model of a zoo. This hands-on experience will leave participants with a new understanding of wildlife, design skills, and a passion for the animal kingdom. Guided Activities Discover what all animals need to survive in their environment. Get up close to animals and learn about their structural and behavioral traits. Assess how well a zoo's habitats meet the needs of their animals. Design and build their own model of a zoo to accommodate the needs of their unique population. Refund Policy: Full refunds will be given if requested more than 7 days before the start date of your camp. Partial refunds (50% tuition) will be given if requested 7 days or less of the start date of your camp. EventBrite fees are nonrefundable. Information Source: Van Andel Institute for Education | eventbrite

Get ready for a wild adventure at Bug Bash Summer Camp! Campers will compete in the Bug Olympics with crazy mimicry races, Build-a-Bug creations, and epic bug hunts, all to see which insect rises above the rest. Together, we'll leap into the fascinating world of insects through interactive activities and hands-on experiments, all while making new friends and having a blast! Guided Activities Bug Olympics: Organize mimicry races where participants imitate the movements of different bugs. Build-a-Bug: Design and construct unique bug models, focusing on different features. Bug Hunt: Search in and around Van Andel Institute for various bugs, identifying and collecting information about them. Exploration: Explore different habitats to observe bugs in their natural environments and learn about their behaviors. Refund Policy: Full refunds will be given if requested more than 7 days before the start date of your camp. Partial refunds (50% tuition) will be given if requested 7 days or less of the start date of your camp. EventBrite fees are nonrefundable. Information Source: Van Andel Institute for Education | eventbrite

Get ready for an amazing adventure at Bug-o-Rama: The Spectacular Science of BUGS! Join us for the Bug Olympics featuring wacky mimicry races, unleash your creativity in Build-a-Bug, and dive into thrilling bug hunts. Explore the incredible world of insects through interactive activities and hands-on experiments, all while making new friends and having a fantastic time! Guided Activities Bug Olympics: Organize mimicry races where participants imitate the movements of different bugs. Build-a-Bug: Design and construct your own bug models, focusing on different features. Bug Hunt: Search in and around Van Andel Institute for various bugs, identifying and collecting information about them. Exploration: Explore different habitats to observe bugs in their natural environments and learn about their behaviors. Refund Policy: Full refunds will be given if requested more than 7 days before the start date of your camp. Partial refunds (50% tuition) will be given if requested 7 days or less of the start date of your camp. EventBrite fees are nonrefundable. Information Source: Van Andel Institute for Education | eventbrite

Dive into an underwater adventure where a hidden world of tiny aquatic creatures is revealed! Equipped with nets and curiosity, campers will screen contents from a river, collecting and identifying macroinvertebrates that hold the key to our water quality. As they examine these fascinating critters, campers will unlock clues about the health of the river and its effect on humans. It’s an exciting mix of science, discovery, and hands-on fun that brings the mysteries of the river to their fingertips! Guided Activities Sharpen their observation skills as they identify macroinvertebrates and their traits. Use magnifiers and microscopes to examine fascinating macroinvertebrate traits up close. Test the quality of our stream by examining its incredible living inhabitants. Discover how certain macroinvertebrates can tell us if a stream is thriving or struggling. Refund Policy: Full refunds will be given if requested more than 7 days before the start date of your camp. Partial refunds (50% tuition) will be given if requested 7 days or less of the start date of your camp. EventBrite fees are nonrefundable. Information Source: Van Andel Institute for Education | eventbrite

Dive into an underwater adventure, uncovering the hidden world of tiny aquatic creatures that hold the key to water quality. Equipped with nets and curiosity, campers will screen contents from a river, collecting and identifying macroinvertebrates. As they examine these fascinating critters, campers will unlock clues about the health of the river and its effect on humans. It’s an exciting mix of science, discovery, and hands-on fun that brings the mysteries of the river to life! Guided Activities Sharpen their observation skills as they identify macroinvertebrates and their traits. Use magnifiers and microscopes to examine fascinating macroinvertebrate traits up close. Test the quality of our stream by examining its incredible living inhabitants. Discover how certain macroinvertebrates can tell us if a stream is thriving or struggling. Refund Policy: Full refunds will be given if requested more than 7 days before the start date of your camp. Partial refunds (50% tuition) will be given if requested 7 days or less of the start date of your camp. EventBrite fees are nonrefundable. Information Source: Van Andel Institute for Education | eventbrite

Join us at one of AFWA-GR's annual favorites, co-hosted with Barre3: an active barre class followed by networking, cocktails, appetizers, and a silent auction. All proceeds from this event will benefit our local annual scholarships! This event will be held outside on the lawn of the beautiful Mangiamo. Barre class beings at 6:00 PM sharp, followed by appetizers and drinks around 6:45. The silent auction will open throughout the event, and we will wrap up by 8:00. All are welcome, bring a friend! Here's the details: Arrive: Please arrive 10-15 minutes early to set your space up for the Barre session Attire: Activewear/comfortable What to Bring: Yoga mat, Water bottle Cost: $ 35.00: General Admission$ 30.00: AFWA Member$500.00: Featured Donor - Includes 2 event tickets, 100% of your donation goes towards our scholarship program, logo and information to be included in highlighted section of the monthly newsletter that corresponds with the sponsored event, logo displayed on donor appreciation banner at sponsored event, AFWA is a 501(c)(3) not for profit organizationSilent Auction: All proceeds benefit our local annual scholarships. Local West Michigan Businesses have graciously donated exciting items for the event! Ticket Includes: Admittance to the event, 45-minute Barre session, appetizers, and access to the silent auction Refreshments: Cash bar, please bring ID Information Source: Accounting & Financial Women's Alliance of Grand Rapids | eventbrite

Calling all young heroes! In this incredible day camp, campers will don their capes and leap into the world of STEM by becoming champions of science, technology, engineering, and math. They’ll learn how everyday objects can turn into superhero gadgets while developing their powers of innovation, problem-solving, and teamwork through thrilling STEM challenges. Don’t miss this chance to discover the science behind the superpowers! Guided Activities Explore the world of magnetism and understand how to make a floating car. Investigate chemical reactions for web-slinging abilities. Test the principles of flight, to create the best cape for gliding through the night. Visit the Van Andel Research Institute and meet a real superhero who studies science. Refund Policy: Full refunds will be given if requested more than 7 days before the start date of your camp. Partial refunds (50% tuition) will be given if requested 7 days or less of the start date of your camp. EventBrite fees are nonrefundable. Information Source: Van Andel Institute for Education | eventbrite