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Youth Advisory Committee

Empowering Our Youth to Create Change

Thirty years ago, Bay Area youth were empowered with an endowment fund they could call their own. The Youth Advisory Committee (YAC) started from a match challenge by the W.K. Kellogg Foundation, which contributed a total of more than $770,000 by the end of 1992.

Because it was endowed, the fund immediately began growing and distributing grants to causes that were important to the youth in our community. A quarter of a century later, the fund has grown to nearly $2 million and has granted out more than $1.8 million to support a wide range of exciting new opportunities and community needs. Recent YAC grants have:

  • provided backpacks and supplies for area students,
  • sponsored a cooking program for local youth,
  • provided funding for adaptive playground equipment,
  • and provided materials for the local children’s museum water exhibit.

The youth are able to grant out approximately $80,000 a year. Through many discussions between each other and with peers outside of YAC, the students have named priorities in the fields of adolescent mental health and first aid awareness for granting dollars moving forward.

Our students are empowered and entrusted as leaders in the community.

Youth are welcome to join. To learn more, call 989-893-4438 or contact Aaron Faist.

Interested in Joining YAC?

We are currently accepting applications for the committee. Please contact Aaron Faist at aaronf@bayfoundation.org to apply. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is eligible to apply?

Students in Bay or Arenac County in grades 7-12 are eligible to apply to join YAC.

What is the time commitment?

YAC members are required to attend monthly meetings as well as engage in YAC volunteer projects and other fund development work. Students will also have the option to attend a youth grantmakers leadership conference during the summer to enhance their leadership skills and grow their network.

Why should I apply?

Our members are community leaders who have developed skills in public speaking, leadership, and teamwork. You will gain valuable insights into grantmaking, community service, and generosity surrounded by a network of fellow youth and staff to support you. 

From Our YAC

“I joined YAC to make a difference in the community and help out with other organizations.” — Bailey Krause

“This is involving our future too… That’s my favorite part, because I’m actually a part of what’s going on in this community.” — Loranzie Deer

“The thing about YAC that I like is being able to meet people from other schools and to make a difference in the community.” — Anna Kendziorski

Need assistance?
We’re here to help.
989.893.4438

Aaron Faist - Program Officer

I am the program officer that oversees the Youth Advisory Committee, Men’s Philanthropy Group, and our scholarship program.

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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.