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Author: Mara Spears, CEP Project Specialist Staff, Elana Burns, Communications Content Student Assistant

From Groundswell to You

   Student Project Showcase

   Volunteer to Make Showcase a Success

   Project Process Open for 2025-2026

Friends of Groundswell

   Spark Meaningful Conversations with Cartoonversation

   Learn How to Prevent and Manage Harmful Algal Blooms

The annual Student Project Showcase is an engaging public event open to educators, community members, students, and families. Each year, students who have participated in our program's stewardship projects are invited to display their work in an interactive, exhibit-style format at GVSU’s Pew Campus. This event celebrates the achievements of our pK-12 student stewards and gives them the opportunity to share about their work with family, friends, and the public. 

We are excited to host you! Please RSVP on your respective registration below. Although this event is at no cost to you, it helps us plan if you RSVP. 

This is an opportunity to give back to our teachers and schools. Engage with our scholars and network by directly supporting us on the day of Showcase. 

Please consider volunteering! RSVP below. 

Consider getting a head start on your project so you can hit the ground running in fall 2025.

This is an optional route for educators! We hope it will help those who are building on existing project work and who have project plans in place for the fall.
If you choose to wait until the next school year starts to reach out to Groundswell and fill out your Brainstorm Doc, that works for us too! This is simply another option to help make the submission process easier. 

Below you'll find all the info you need to get started on a project for the next academic year.

Looking for a fun and engaging way to help kids navigate important social topics? Cartoonversation combines the power of storytelling and animation to create meaningful discussions on issues like bullying, mental health, respect, and more. Cartoonversation provides educators, parents, and youth leaders with relatable characters and thought-provoking stories with the tools they need to start open, honest conversations in a way that kids understand and enjoy.

Ready to make learning impactful and engaging? Explore Cartoonversation today!

In past HABs 101 webinars, we explored the basics of harmful algal blooms and their role in aquatic ecosystems. Now, take the next step with HABs 101: Prevention and Management this April. Gain expert insights on what to do when your pond or lake turns green (hint: it’s not always bad!) and discover practical strategies for reducing the risk and impact of HABs long-term. Hosted by Michigan Sea Grant and statewide partners, this webinar will cover septic systems, nutrient budgets, direct management options, and more. Ready to dive deeper? Explore Michigan Sea Grant’s collection of HABs resources and register today using the link below!

Questions? Please contact Groundswell at groundswell@gvsu.edu.