FACT Awards 2008 Planning Grants

Learn about FACT's grant program and research projects

FACT funded planning grants for 2008 are:

Connecting Children with Nature
Project Leader: Joyce Belonga, MSU Extension, U.P. Region
Project Description: Recent evidence suggests that some children may now be more familiar with the virtual world than the natural one. To better understand the social implications of this shift, Dr. Joyce Belonga proposes to study the short- and long- term effects of activities that connect children to nature.

The Effects of Casinos on Family Economics
Project Leader: Elizabeth Szymanski, MSU Extension, Midland Region
Project Description: Dr. Elizabeth Szymanski proposes to study the positive and negative effects of casinos on Michigan communities. She will examine economic development, tourism, employment, home purchases, and the affordability of higher education, as well as more traditional concerns such as debt-related businesses, crime, bankruptcy, foreclosures, repossessions, divorce, and addiction.

Mentoring Eastern Upper Peninsula Families on Starting a Food Business
Project Leader: Jim Lucas, MSU Extension, U.P. Region
Project Description: The success of the Sault Ste. Marie Farmers' Market has prompted Jim Lucas to propose a program of training and materials to help families start and maintain their own independent food businesses.

Cultivating Healthy Kids and Communities: An Educational Schoolyard Garden Initiative
Project Leader: J. Robert Sirrine, MSU Extension, North Region
Project Description: Dr. J. Robert Sirrine has proposed a unique program to develop schoolyard gardens and associated nutrition-food-agriculture curriculum. The program, he hopes, will improve students' appreciation of fresh, healthful foods, and also encourage exchange across counties and cultures.

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