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Applications for Community Impact Initiative Grant Now Available

Waves lapping at the shore. The sound of a fishing line as it plops into the water. Summer days at the beach. Strolling along a riverbank.

These images evoke a sense of well-being and create a strong and enduring connection to place. Communities with a strong sense of place prosper. They attract workplace talent and business. Lake Huron and the Saginaw Bay, coupled with our dynamic river system, provide Bay County with access to special and unique natural resources—resources that improve economic vitality and provide a competitive advantage for our community.

Through the Community Impact Initiative, the Bay Area Community Foundation seeks to harness the potential of these natural resources for a vibrant and growing Bay County.

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Community Impact Initiative Guidelines

The Bay Area Community Foundation Board of Trustees will award up to $250,000 in grant funds for this Bay County initiative. The funds may be awarded to one or multiple projects.

STRATEGIC FOCUS: Develop clean and accessible beaches and waterfront recreational opportunities including public access to the waterfront, greater waterfront visibility, and programs that provide better coordination of shoreline initiatives in Bay County. Focus should be placed on water and using it to attract and retain residents and business. Utilize water resources in smart and sustainable ways and leverage unique water assets for economic and community development to differentiate the area from other communities.

Eligibility

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization, government entity, or school. Must address strategic focus. For this purpose, water assets refer to Lake Huron/Saginaw Bay or rivers within Bay County.

Evaluation Criteria

Successful applicants will have projects that are:

  • Impactful and significant
  • Sustainable
  • Leverage additional resources
  • Collaborative in nature

Guidelines to Get Started

These questions are provided only as a guideline to help you prepare. After April 1, 2019, you can begin the application process by contacting Joni King, program officer, at jonik@bayfoundation.org or (989) 893-4438 to discuss your project or idea. If your project is a good fit, you will be provided with a password for our online application portal. Paper applications will not be accepted.

  • Provide a brief summary of the organization’s history, mission, goals, and current programs with activities and accomplishments.
  • Detail the need for and importance of this project as it relates to the strategic focus outlined above.
  • Make a compelling case as to why our community would benefit from this project.
  • Summarize the program or project. Indicate whether this is a new or ongoing initiative for your organization.
  • Outline the project goals, action plan, and timetable for implementation.
  • Provide a project budget, and detail the long-term strategies for funding this project.
  • Define who your partners are and their roles in the project.

Download more information about this grant opportunity

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Press Release – Bay Area Community Foundation receives $20,000 Grant to Support Community Foundation Access and Opportunity Grant Program

“We are excited to once again partner with the United Way of Bay County as we work together to provide this opportunity to the education sector.  Following the success of the pilot program, Lifted Voices: Navigating the Challenges Facing ALICE Youth, we will once again primarily focus on the education sector for training in the program.”  Shawna Walraven, President & CEO, Bay Area Community Foundation.

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Nicole Horn

989.893.4438 or email below 

Donor Relations and Communications Officer

At BACF, I am fortunate to contribute to our mission in meaningful and impactful ways. As your main contact for donor-advised funds, I help ensure that each donor’s unique passions are brought to life through their giving—whether this be through designated or agency funds. It is an honor to connect with generous community members, and I am always available to discuss how you can create a lasting impact in our community.  

In addition, I oversee all of BACF’s communications, bringing ideas to life through engaging stories and visuals. While upholding our brand identity, I strive to highlight the remarkable individuals in our community and the collaborative efforts that make Bay and Arenac counties exceptional places to live, work, and thrive.

As a lifelong Bay County resident, I am deeply connected to our people and community. I cherish the opportunity to build meaningful relationships and am committed to enhancing the quality of life for everyone in Bay and Arenac counties, ensuring a bright future for generations to come.

I Can Help You With:

  • Donor Advised Funds
  • Agency & Designated Funds
  • Business Sponsorships
  • Give Local Bay and BACF Events
  • BACF Website
  • BACF Donor Portal

Things I Do In My Free Time: You’ll often find me at a local coffee shop in Downtown Bay City and frequenting the area’s local arts and music scene. I also love hiking and exploring parks both in our area and throughout northern Michigan.

Madi Syring

989.893.4438 or email below 

Program Officer

I am proud to serve my community through my role at BACF. As a Program Officer, I collaborate with nonprofit, government, church, and school partners in Bay and Arenac counties to navigate our grant opportunities and find the right funding alignment. From project conception to post-award, I am your main contact for all things grants. Connecting organizations and donors who share the same vision and passion is at the heart of my work.

I am dedicated to supporting the organizations that work tirelessly to improve our community. Additionally, I provide capacity-building opportunities by hosting educational workshops, managing Catchafire—a volunteer platform connecting organizations with professional services at no cost—and offering technical assistance and resources to build strength in our nonprofit community.
 

I Can Help You With:

  • Navigating the Competitive Grant Process
  • Finding Funding Alignment
  • Building Organizational Capacity
  • Technical Assistance

Things I Do In My Free Time: Outside of work, you might catch me on the trail with my dog! I love backpacking, hiking, hunting, and kayaking all over Michigan. I’m also an avid reader, so you might find me at a local library or bookshop. 

Rachael Rosas

989.893.4438 or email below

Administrative Officer

As the Administrative Officer at BACF, my responsibilities include maintaining our comprehensive database, accurately documenting gifts, and collaborating with building vendors to maintain the historic Pere Marquette Depot.

I am committed to establishing well-documented processes that contribute to the ongoing success of BACF. My deep appreciation for the Pere Marquette Depot drives me to preserve this historic landmark as a source of price for our community, ensuring its legacy for future generations. 

I Can Help You With:

  • Making a Gift to One of Our Many Funds
  • Updating Your Contact Information
  • Identifying the Most Helpful Staff Member or Resource
  • Answering General Questions about BACF
  • Providing Information About the Pere Marquette Depot and 1904 Room Event Space

Things I Do In My Free Time: I enjoy immersing myself in flower gardening and various art projects. I love spending time in nature and attending community events, which help me stay connected and get inspired. 

Frances Moore

989.893.4438 or email below 

Program and Finance Associate

As the Program and Finance Associate at BACF, I support our Scholarship Program and partner with the Director of Finance on financial reporting. I also assist in the management of the Pere Marquette Depot and the 1904 Room event space.

I am honored to play a role in helping individuals achieve their dreams and reach their full potential. I am passionate about making a positive impact and am always ready to lend a helping hand to ensure the success of our programs and the betterment of our community. 

I Can Help You With:

  • Scholarship Applications and Award Process
  • Information about the Pere Marquette Depot and 1904 Room Event Space
  • Coordination with Scholarship Committees
  • General Support for BACF Programs and Initiatives

Things I Do In My Free Time: I enjoy spending time with family and friends, exploring Michigan’s beautiful landscapes, camping under the stars, and bike riding through scenic trails.