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Category: Be Bold Stories

Being BOLD: Peggy Rowley

Bay Area Community Foundation is deeply saddened to lose one of our community’s boldest leaders. Peggy Rowley passed away peacefully on New Year’s Eve and will be missed by many. It is thanks to Peggy that the Bay Area Community Foundation exists. She helped found the organization in 1982, persisting even when others said it […]

Being BOLD: CAN Council of the Great Lakes Bay Region

The dictionary defines bold as “a person, action, or idea; showing an ability to take risks; confident and courageous.” This definition describes the child abuse and neglect councils of the Great Lakes Bay Region and Huron County, who courageously took risks to protect children suffering abuse. In a five year period, reported cases of child […]

Being BOLD: Avram Golden

When Avram Golden sees an idea to better his community, he goes for it. Avram, the owner of Golden Gallery & Custom Framing in Downtown Bay City, has taken bold steps to make two local projects a reality: Third Street Star Bridge Illuminating life and art in downtown Bay City was the creative spark behind […]

Being BOLD: Shara Klenk

Shara Klenk, a resident of Arenac County and mother of two, searched for a local center for children to gather for fun and recreation after school. She found there wasn’t such a center, and waiting lists for quality daycare were long. Shara wasn’t well-known in the community. She wasn’t wealthy, and she didn’t have a […]

Being BOLD: Stephanie Beiser

When it comes to the animals of Bay County, Stephanie Beiser’s heart—and arms—are open. Throughout the community, she is an advocate for animals. She was on the strategic planning committee to transition Bay County Animal Services & Adoption Center toward a no-kill shelter. On their staff, she is able to take on unique cases and […]

Being BOLD: Drydock Beer Garden

When the leaders of State Theatre and Hell’s Half Mile Events teamed up last year with Don and Ashley Sabourin to create the Drydock Beer Garden, they envisioned a more vibrant downtown and a way to support their nonprofit organizations. What they didn’t realize was just how important Drydock would become to many nonprofits in […]

Being BOLD: Richmond Brothers

Imagine working sunup to sundown as a farmer. You’re exhausted from harvesting season, but then on top of your own crop for your business, you’re growing an additional five acres of food to donate to those in need. This is the life of Mike and Ken Richmond and their families. Primarily soy bean and sugar […]

Bay Commitment Students: Hope for the Future

Scholarship Fund Switches to Support Bay Commitment For more than 20 years, Frank Mandley has been on the committee to help recommend a student to receive a scholarship from the Warren F. and Ruth P. Mandley Memorial Educational Fund, a fund Frank created in 1996 to honor his parents and support local education. While he […]

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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.