Since 2016, Yoga Strong Foundation has been committed to recognizing young people who demonstrate dedication, perseverance and a desire to make a difference.

Through the Yoga Strong Scholarship, we have now awarded more than $52,500 to graduating high school students pursuing the next chapter of their education. The scholarship was created to recognize students who have shown long-term commitment to athletics, marching band or theater—and the lessons that come with that commitment: discipline, resilience, teamwork and the willingness to keep showing up.

Our 2026 Yoga Strong Scholarship recipients are Janie Mitter, who received a $3,000 scholarship, and Charlie Raymond, who received a $1,500 scholarship. Sarah Langley, not pictured, also received a $1,500 scholarship.

We are proud to support these students as they continue their education and carry the lessons they’ve learned through years of dedication into whatever comes next.

In 2026, we expanded that mission with the creation of the Heart in Action Award.

The Heart in Action Award supports young people who see a need in their community and decide to do something about it.

Too often, kids are told that they are too young, too inexperienced or simply not capable of creating meaningful change. We believe the opposite. Sometimes all someone needs is encouragement, resources and a little confidence to turn an idea into something impactful.

Our goal with the Heart in Action Award is to provide that boost and, in doing so, help create a ripple effect of kindness, service and leadership within the next generation.

Our inaugural Heart in Action recipients were:

Stephanie Reese received $500 to support her hat and glove drive benefiting elementary school students throughout her school district.

Liam Laird received $2,500 to support Liam’s Hope for the Homeless, a project through which he provides sandwiches, water, hygiene kits, socks, sleeping bags and other necessities to people experiencing homelessness in Detroit.

These young people are proof that you do not have to wait until you are older, have more resources or feel completely ready to make a difference.

You can start where you are.

And sometimes one act of kindness is all it takes to inspire the next one.

Addison Payne, Savannah Shafer & Chloe DeLand

2025 Scholarship Winners

Addison Payne graduated from Brighton High School, where she participated in track and field. She is committed to attend the University of Michigan. Addison was awarded a $3,000 scholarship.

Chloe DeLand (not pictured) graduated from Howell High School, where she participated in cross country and track. She is committed to attend Eastern Michigan University. Chloe was awarded a $1,500 scholarship.

Savannah Shafer graduated from Pinckney High School, where she participated in volleyball and basketball. She is committed to attend Michigan State University. Savannah was awarded a $1,500 scholarship.

We are so proud of these students and excited to see all they accomplish in the future!

Special thanks to TwoSix digital for their continued partnership in supporting the Yoga Strong Foundation Scholarships.