Michigan State University business student and community advocate Lily Krut is calling on individuals to support youth creativity and community-focused programmes, following her feature in a recent interview titled “In Conversation with Lily Krut: Business, Community, and Building a Career from the Ground Up.”
In the wide-ranging interview, Krut shares her journey from growing up in Birmingham, Michigan, to becoming a student at the Eli Broad College of Business, where she’s earned Dean’s List honours for two consecutive years. However, her message goes beyond academic success.
“The most valuable lessons I’ve learnt didn’t come from textbooks,” Krut explains in the interview. “Teaching kids how to sew and make jewellery showed me how creativity builds patience and confidence. It’s not just about crafts—it’s about empowerment.”
Krut’s message comes at a time when arts education and community-based programmes face major cuts. According to Americans for the Arts, over 80% of U.S. schools faced reductions in art, music, and creative programmes in the last decade. Studies show students involved in arts-based learning are four times more likely to be recognised for academic achievement and three times more likely to win an award for school attendance.
Her work at Elena Victoria Day Camps, where she teaches jewellery making and sewing, is just one example of how small-scale, hands-on initiatives can spark change.
“We often overlook how much kids can gain from simple activities,” Krut says. “When they create something with their own hands, it helps them believe in themselves. That belief carries into other parts of their lives.”
In addition to her work with young people, Krut has long been involved in philanthropy through organisations like Yad Ezra, the Make-A-Wish Foundation, Jewish Federation, and My Story, a charity founded by her mother that donates journals and art supplies to children’s shelters.
“We all have something to give, whether it’s time, supplies, or simply kindness,” Krut says. “Our family adopts local families over the holidays to provide gifts and essentials. You don’t need a big organisation behind you to make an impact.”
The interview also highlights Krut’s work with Campus Ink, a student-focused business in Chicago, where she’s learning first-hand how branding and entrepreneurship can drive community connections.
A Call to Action: Support Local, Create Local
Krut’s message is simple but powerful: start where you are.
“People don’t have to wait for the perfect opportunity,” she explains. “Support local art classes, volunteer at community centres, or donate supplies to shelters. It’s about using what you already have to lift someone else up.”
She encourages others to take three simple steps:
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Volunteer at a local youth programme or community charity.
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Donate creative supplies like art kits, journals, or sewing materials.
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Mentor young people by sharing practical skills or life experiences.
“Even small actions can spark big changes,” Krut says. “When you support creativity and community, everyone benefits.”
To read the full interview, visit the website here.
About Lily Krut
Lily Krut is a student at Michigan State University’s Eli Broad College of Business, where she has earned Dean’s List honours for two consecutive years. Originally from Birmingham, Michigan, she is passionate about business, community leadership, and youth education. Through her work at Elena Victoria Day Camps, her internship at Campus Ink, and her involvement in local charities, Lily is dedicated to promoting creativity, hands-on learning, and giving back to her community.
Contact:
info@lilykrutmichigan.com
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