Originally Published: Hometown Life
Client: Living and Learning Enrichment Center
 

NORTHVILLE TWP. — The Living and Learning Enrichment Center is in the running for a substantial grant.

The center is a finalist in the 2026 Chick-fil-A True Inspiration Awards, making it the only nonprofit in Michigan selected for this year’s contest.

The awards recognize nonprofits across the country for their community impact.

Winners receive grants between $30,000 and $350,000 to expand their programs and services.

The Northville Township-based nonprofit center provides day and evening activities, vocational training, and social skills programs for teens and adults with special needs.

“This recognition from Chick-fil-A means so much to our organization,” Living and Learning Enrichment Center president and founder Rachelle Vartanian said in a statement. “A grant of this size would be truly transformational, allowing us to take individuals and families off year-long waitlists caused by overwhelming demand, and giving us the ability to expand programs that address the staggering unemployment rates facing individuals with autism and related challenges. With this support, we can help even more individuals thrive and build independent, meaningful lives.”

The organization also operates MOD Market in downtown Northville, where members gain real-world job experience.

Living and Learning was nominated by Chick-fil-A Northville Township owner-operators Phil and Amanda Whitsel, who cited the center’s vocational training and employment readiness programs.

“At Chick-fil-A, serving our community goes far beyond the food we provide,” the Whitsels said in the release. “We were honored to nominate Living and Learning for the True Inspiration Awards because their mission reflects those same values.”

Public voting is open Sept. 2–30 through the Chick-fil-A App, with winners to be announced in 2026.

To vote, download or open the Chick-fil-A App, sign in or create a free Chick-fil-A One account and select “For You” at the bottom of the screen. From there, click the True Inspiration Awards card, choose the Midwest Region and cast your vote for Living and Learning Enrichment Center.

The Chick-fil-A Northville Township location will host a kickoff for the voting campaign from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 5, at its restaurant at 20135 Haggerty Road.

Guests can meet members of the Living and Learning team, learn about the center’s programs, and take part in food giveaways and promotions tied to voting.

More information about the Living and Learning Enrichment Center is available at www.livingandlearningcenter.org. Details about the True Inspiration Awards can be found at www.chick-fil-a.com/true-inspiration-awards.

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