About Us
Vision
We believe the purpose of education is learning how to grow—and what to grow toward. We imagine a future where every young person has someone to learn with, someone to look up to, and something to reach for.
Mission
Our mission is to recruit and empower young adults who care, to show up for others and become steady sources of support and inspiration for the next generation. We create real opportunities for college students to serve with intention and help Lansing’s youth discover their potential through self-belief, goal-setting, and meaningful connection.
Our History
Equiduct was founded in 2021 by a group of Michigan State University students with a shared goal: to advance educational equity and connect college volunteers with Lansing youth. What began as a small club of friends and classmates has grown into a 501(c)(3) nonprofit with multiple programs, strong community partnerships, and a growing network of student volunteers. Today, we continue to bridge the MSU and Lansing communities, reminding young adults of their power to lead, serve, and inspire change.
Partners
Software
Imagine
We started Equiduct with a simple question: What if we brought two communities together?
In 2021, after working and volunteering in Lansing, we realized how much untapped potential there was—both in the kids we met and the college students around us. There were so many young adults who wanted to give back, but weren’t sure where to start. So we created a bridge: a structure where students could show up for each other, learn from each other, and grow together.
To us, Equiduct is more than a nonprofit—it’s a belief in what’s possible when people care.
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While our vision for Equiduct spans broader than the efforts of any individual, we recognize that our mission is best reflected in each of the little moments that leave a lasting impact on both our volunteers and the students we serve. We’ve seen it in every high-five, every carpool ride home, every lightbulb moment in a kid’s eyes. We’re proud of what our team has built—and even more excited about what’s ahead.​​​​​​​
Whether you’re a student, supporter, or someone who just stumbled onto our page—we’re glad you’re here. Equiduct exists because of people like you.
—John Henige & Jonas Padilla
Co-Founders, Friends
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