Giving Back In White Lake-Highland: Causes To Support This Season

Giving Tuesday is a global movement that encourages people to give back to their communities, typically through charitable donations, volunteer work or acts of kindness. It takes place annually on the Tuesday following Thanksgiving in the U.S., right after Black Friday and Cyber Monday. While it's celebrated widely, the real impact happens when we do good right at home by supporting local businesses, causes and organizations working to uplift our own communities.

We've rounded up a list of some great organizations, causes and initiatives in the White Lake-Highland area. Please keep in mind, this is by no means an exhaustive list — just a starting point for discovering amazing local opportunities to give back, not only on Giving Tuesday but year-round! Be sure to contact each organization directly to find out about their hours or the best ways you can contribute.

White Lake Scouting

White Lake Scouting supports over 150 local youth through four chartered Boy Scouts of America (BSA) units, including Cub Scout Packs, a Scout Troop and a Venturing Crew for both boys and girls. Focused on developing citizenship, leadership and a service-oriented mindset, the program is built around the outdoor camping curriculum developed by BSA over the past century. With the help of more than 35 dedicated adult volunteers, White Lake Scouting offers year-round activities. Community members can support the program by volunteering or donating to the Scout Center.

Learn more: whitelakescouting.org

Starz Equestrian Center

Starz Equestrian Center in White Lake is a therapeutic riding center that offers equine-assisted activities to individuals with special needs and the broader community. In addition to specialized lessons, Starz hosts a variety of programs including scout badge clinics, community service opportunities and fun events like farm yoga and music classes. Donations and volunteers are essential to supporting the center’s mission of providing inclusive, life-changing experiences.

Learn more: starzequestrian.org

United Way of the Lakeshore

The United Way of the Lakeshore improves the quality of life in nearby Muskegon, Newaygo and Oceana counties by addressing education, health and financial stability. In 2022, they served over 133,000 families and connected nearly 19,000 people to essential services. You can support United Way by donating, advocating to raise awareness for critical causes or volunteering for opportunities like the Day of Caring and community panels.

Learn more: .unitedwaylakeshore.org

White Lake Association

The White Lake Association (WLA) is a group of dedicated area residents working to preserve the natural beauty and public trust of White Lake. The WLA conducts lake bottom analysis for invasive species and ongoing water quality testing. The organization also works to ensure safe boating and maintains signage to promote speed limit awareness on the lake. Membership is $35 per year and supports these efforts.

Learn more: whitelakeassociation.org

Holly Area Youth Assistance

Holly Area Youth Assistance (HAYA) is a community-driven organization that works to strengthen local youth and families. By offering support and prevention programs, HAYA helps reduce delinquency, abuse and neglect while encouraging young people to reach their full potential. Volunteers are essential to the success of HAYA’s programs, and monetary donations help expand services and continue providing crucial support to children and families in the area.

Learn more: hollyareaya.com

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