The Michigan Freedom Foundation was formed in 1984 by a group of business and military leaders interested in exposing high school age students to a greater awareness of the obligation and responsibilities inherent to a free, democratic society. 

 

The mission of the foundation is to support and offer programs which inspire Freedom Academy delegates, counselors and staff with an appreciation of the freedoms enjoyed by American citizens; promote teamwork and service to community and state through an understanding of individual responsibility and patriotism; recruit delegates who represent the state's rich ethnic diversity; and provide the fiscal and ethical impetus for the Michigan Freedom Academy to flourish.

 

The academy is a leadership development program that exposes youth to a wide variety of issues in the areas of education, business, elected government, law enforcement, drug demand reduction, national defense and basic perspectives on freedom as delineated in our Bill of Rights.  More than 1,000 young Michigan men and women have completed this unique experience since its inception.

 

The foundation is a non-profit, non-sectarian educational organization and seeks support for its programs through grants and contributions from other foundations, corporations and individual donors.  The foundation enthusiastically receives the generous support of the Michigan National Guard in planning, coordinating and executing the annual academy.  This activity further serves as an example of the spirit of volunteering and philanthropy to our delegates, two very cherished American ideals. 

 

The foundation advocates the use of a variety of selection approaches which include the nomination by selected members of Michigan's congressional delegation, recommendations from school guidance counselors and civic leaders, direct application by prospective delegates and recommendations from former Freedom Academy delegates.  Delegates selected, attend at no personal cost. The foundation ensures equal opportunity for all applicants and promotes increased involvement by female and minority youth. 

 

The Michigan Freedom Foundation recognizes that, without the support of our benefactors, individuals and organizations, the academy could not serve the needs of our youth.