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Press Release – Bay Area Community Foundation Hosts Launch Your Future at Delta College Planetarium to Support Students and Adults Pursuing Post-Secondary Education

“At the Bay Area Community Foundation, we believe that post-secondary credential attainment is a powerful driver of personal and community transformation,” said Shawna Walraven, President & CEO of the Bay Area Community Foundation.

PRESS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT:
For Launch Your Future: Scholarship and Financial Aid Workshop event details and logistical questions:

Aaron Faist, Program Officer
Bay Area Community Foundation
(989) 893-4438
aaronf@bayfoundation.org

For media and communication inquiries regarding the Launch Your Future: Scholarship and Financial Aid Workshop event:

Nicole Horn, Donor Relations & Communications Officer
Bay Area Community Foundation
(989) 893-4438
nicoleh@bayfoundation.org                                                                                      


Bay Area Community Foundation Hosts Launch Your Future at Delta College Planetarium to Support Students and Adults Pursuing Post-Secondary Education

BAY CITY, MI – September 8, 2025, The Bay Area Community Foundation is proud to announce Launch Your Future, a scholarship and financial aid workshop. This free event is designed to empower both high school seniors and adult learners seeking post-secondary education or training. The event will take place on Thursday, November 13, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the Delta College Planetarium (100 Center Ave, Bay City, MI 48708) in Downtown Bay City.

This workshop and resource fair will connect rising seniors and adult learners with local colleges, training programs, and community resources to help them take the next step in their educational journey. Attendees can:

  • Get advice on college selection
  • Receive help completing the FAFSA
  • Learn about State Aid Programs
  • Explore scholarship opportunities with BACF staff in on-site computer labs
  • Discover potential career pathways
  • Connect with apprenticeships, military programs, and skilled trades

Exhibitor booths will be hosted by Delta College, Saginaw Valley State University, Northwood University, Davenport University, Central Michigan University, Ferris State University, Michigan Works, UA Local 85, and the U.S. branches of the military, and others, who will be available to answer questions and provide information on opportunities and assistance.

Two special workshops will also take place during this event, and will be offered simultaneously at 5:15 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. and 6:15 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.

  • FAFSA: What It Is & How to Complete It with Delta College
  • Get Money! How to Graduate Debt-Free with Anderson Bearden, Complete College Advising.

“At the Bay Area Community Foundation, we believe that post-secondary credential attainment is a powerful driver of personal and community transformation,” said Shawna Walraven, President & CEO of the Bay Area Community Foundation. “Launch Your Future is more than an event; it’s a gateway to opportunity. By connecting students and adult learners with the resources they need to pursue education and training, we’re helping build a stronger, more resilient community for generations to come.”

To support educational advancement, the Bay Area Community Foundation will award two $1,000 scholarships, one to a high school senior and one to an adult learner. To be eligible, you must register in advance and attend the event to win!

Registration is required for this event and can be completed through an online form or by scanning the QR code at the bottom of this release.

Join us on November 13 and take the next step toward your educational future!

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The Bay Area Community Foundation is a philanthropic organization working to improve the quality of life in Bay and Arenac counties. The Foundation’s mission is to build community through generosity, leadership and strategic grantmaking. The Bay Area Community Foundation is in the Pere Marquette Depot at 1000 Adams Street, Suite 200, Bay City, Michigan 48708. For more information, visit www.bayfoundation.org.

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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.

Secret Link

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.