We use boxing as the hook and education as the foundation. Level Up gives Kent County youth the discipline, mentorship, and academic support to change their trajectory — before the system does it for them.
Youth in Kent County face mounting challenges — exposure to violence and drugs, lack of mentorship, struggles in school, and no safe place to channel their energy.
Our local juvenile detention system is overwhelmed. In some cases, adolescents are being placed within the adult jail system in separate units. These aren't bad kids — they're kids without a corner to stand in.
Level Up Boxing and Education is that corner. A structured environment where youth are not judged, not pushed toward negative influences, but guided toward a brighter path forward.
Boxing is the entry point — the hook that gets youth through the door. Inside that gym, they discover something bigger: discipline, respect, and the confidence that comes from showing up and putting in work.
Participation in boxing requires participation in tutoring. That's the deal — and youth respect it. Professional tutors work with each participant on academics, study habits, and the skills to succeed in school and beyond.
We develop the whole person. Youth are connected with mentors who've walked similar roads and come out stronger. Character, accountability, and vision are built every single day — not just on fight night.
Any at-risk adolescent youth in the Grand Rapids area can join. There is no cost to the youth or their family, ever. Participants are referred through community programs, schools, mentors, and community leaders.
Every session includes mandatory professional tutoring. Youth work on math, English, reading comprehension, and study skills. Boxing is a privilege earned through effort in the classroom.
Real, structured boxing training with qualified coaches. Technique, fitness, discipline, and respect are built through the sport. Youth earn their place in that gym every day they show up.
Mentorship, goal-setting, life skills, and community. We invest in the whole person and build a network of support around each youth we serve — changing trajectories before the system does.
Born in Bosnia, Admir and his family fled during the war — through Croatia, Germany, and ultimately to the United States. Growing up in the inner-city school system, he experienced firsthand the pressures many young people face. Those experiences shaped his passion for mentoring youth from difficult environments. A wealth manager at Robert W. Baird & Co. and owner of K&M Transport, Admir brings executive leadership and personal conviction to Level Up's mission.
Michael brings 15 years of experience with the United States Postal Service and a deep passion for mentorship and youth development. He began volunteering as a boxing trainer in 2018 alongside Grand Rapids sports legend Buster Mathis Jr., discovering the transformative power boxing has on young people. As Executive Director, he leads daily operations and training — creating a safe, structured environment where youth unlock their potential.
Josh has dedicated his career to breaking down barriers in West Michigan communities. A former Vice President at Kennari Consulting, he launched the grants department serving hundreds of local nonprofits and led development of initiatives including the Grand Rapids Promise Zone and the West Michigan Construction Institute. As Kent County's Strategic Impact Director, he brings 13 years of government administration and fundraising expertise to Level Up's board.
Glenn brings over 30 years of executive leadership driving economic and cultural growth in West Michigan. He spent fifteen seasons as Executive Director of the Grand Rapids Ballet, has been named among the 200 Most Influential Leaders in West Michigan multiple times by Crain's Grand Rapids Business, and currently serves as Chief Operating Officer of the Downtown Market. His financial acumen and community relationships are foundational to Level Up's long-term growth.
Your dollars fund tutoring, equipment, and mentorship for youth who need it most. Every contribution makes a direct impact.
Partner with Level Up as a business or organization sponsor. Align your brand with a mission that's changing lives in Grand Rapids.
Share your knowledge. Volunteer tutors work directly with youth on math, English, and academic skills that change their trajectory.
Your lived experience matters. Mentors provide guidance, accountability, and a model of what's possible for youth who need it.
Your donation funds free tutoring, boxing training, and mentorship for Grand Rapids youth. Tax-deductible. 100% impact in Kent County.
Whether you want to enroll a youth, volunteer, donate, or partner — we want to hear from you.
Thank you for reaching out. Our team will be in touch soon.