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Press Release – Bay Area Community Foundation Launches GivingTuesday Campaign Threads of Community – Weaving a Tapestry of Generosity

The campaign highlights the power of giving, both financial and personal, to strengthen the fabric of Bay and Arenac Counties. Through the Friends of the Foundation Fund, donations will directly support BACF’s ability to respond to urgent local needs, ensuring resources reach individuals and nonprofits making a difference in the community.

PRESS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT:

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

Bay Area Community Foundation Launches GivingTuesday Campaign Threads of Community – Weaving a Tapestry of Generosity

Bay City, MI – November 10, 2025 – On Tuesday, December 2, 2025, the Bay Area Community Foundation (BACF) will join millions across the globe in celebrating GivingTuesday, a worldwide day of generosity and connection. This year marks BACF’s first GivingTuesday campaign, “Threads of Community: Weaving a Tapestry of Generosity,” which ties into its Annual Appeal theme, “Threads of Connection.”

The campaign highlights the power of giving, both financial and personal, to strengthen the fabric of Bay and Arenac Counties. Through the Friends of the Foundation Fund, donations will directly support BACF’s ability to respond to urgent local needs, ensuring resources reach individuals and nonprofits making a difference in the community.

“Generosity isn’t just about giving, it’s about connecting,” said Shawna Walraven, President & CEO of the Bay Area Community Foundation. “Every time someone gives, whether through a donation, a kind word, or a simple act of service, they strengthen the threads that hold our community together. GivingTuesday gives us a moment to celebrate that shared spirit.”

As part of the celebration, BACF will host a Generosity Card Station inside its board room at the Pere Marquette Depot (100 Adams St., Suite 200, Bay City) from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on GivingTuesday. Community members are invited to stop in, enjoy coffee and doughnuts, and write a short message of kindness, gratitude, or encouragement on special BACF postcards. The Foundation will then mail these cards to spread positivity and connection throughout the community.

“We wanted to create a way for everyone to take part in GivingTuesday,” Walraven explained. Not everyone can give financially, but everyone can share a kind word or offer encouragement. The Generosity Cards are a simple but powerful reminder that every person has something meaningful to give.”

The Bay Area Community Foundation also emphasizes that generosity comes in many forms. Those unable to attend the event are encouraged to participate through acts of kindness — volunteering, helping a neighbor, or supporting a local small business, and to share their stories online using the hashtag #BACFThreadsOfCommunity.

Donations can be made online at www.bayfoundation.org. Every contribution to the Friends of the Foundation Fund helps BACF continue its mission of building stronger, more connected communities where everyone can live, learn, work, and thrive.

“It takes each off us to build community,” said Walraven. “Every gift adds a new thread to the tapestry of impact being woven across Bay and Arenac Counties. Now is the time to give and to be part of something bigger than ourselves.”

Event Details

What: GivingTuesday – Threads of Community: Weaving a Tapestry of Generosity
When: Tuesday, December 2, 2025 | 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Where: Bay Area Community Foundation Board Room
Pere Marquette Depot | 1000 Adams St., Suite 200, Bay City, MI 48708
Activities: Generosity Card Station, light refreshments, and connection with BACF staff and board members.

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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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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.