Gretchen’s Giving Journey, Supporting Community Through the Friends of the Foundation Fund
For Gretchen, giving to the Bay Area Community Foundation (BACF) has been a journey shaped by personal connection, deepening understanding, and a growing appreciation for what community truly means.
Her story began with loss, but also with love. “It all started when a fund was created in memory of my beautiful cousin,” Gretchen shared. The first step into philanthropy opened the door to a long and meaningful relationship with BACF. Over the years, her involvement grew as she engaged with various groups and learned more about the Foundation’s impact. As she puts it, “I have continued to learn about all of the work the Community Foundation does and how passionate the staff and Board are and how intentional the giving is in the community.”
For Gretchen, community is not an abstract concept. It’s a lived experience. “To me, community is coming together for people and/or organization to improve the wellbeing of each.” This belief mirrors the mission behind the Friends of the Foundation Fund, which empowers BACF to meet emerging needs, respond to new challenges, and uplift the organizations that make Bay County stronger.
GivingTuesday resonates deeply with Gretchen because it embodies the values she holds close. “To me, generosity is the quality of being kind, unselfish, and willing to give of your time, talents, and resources without the expectation of anything in return.” And on a day centered around generosity worldwide, she sees a unique opportunity for people to unite behind something meaningful. “GivingTuesday is an opportunity to be a part of something bigger than any one person. It can also shift our mindset from buying to giving and remind us of our shared humanity and community.”
When asked what she would tell someone considering a GivingTuesday gift for the first time, Gretchen offers heartfelt encouragement:
“All donations are significant to a nonprofit, regardless of the amount, maybe you think your small donation won’t make a difference, but they truly do make a difference. If you are not in a place where a financial donation is possible, reach out to a local nonprofit and find out how you can give of your time and talents.”
Gretchen’s story is a reminder that giving, no matter the size, create ripples of impact. This GivingTuesday, gifts to the Friends of the Foundation Fun help ensure that BACF can continue supporting the people, nonprofits, and ideas that strengthen our community every day.
Join Gretchen in being part of something bigger. Your generosity today helps build the community we all believe in.
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.
