Illuminating Pathways to a Brighter Future: Ocean-Lea Schrader
Growing up in an environment where hard work was valued, Ocean-Lea Schrader learned the importance of perseverance. She shares, “If I wanted something, I had to work for it.” Her upbringing instilled in her a relentless pursuit of excellence that extended to her academic endeavors. “… Success is possible even if you don’t go the […]
Elevating Early Childhood Care in Bay County: Bay County ARPA Childcare Grant Program
At the Bay Area Community Foundation (BACF), we believe in the power of community, collaboration and change. Today, we’re sharing an exciting update that reflects our commitment to enhancing the lives of our littlest community members. In collaboration with the Bay Arenac Intermediate School District (BAISD), BACF sought to address the childcare challenges that emerged […]
Creating Worth and Empowerment: The Impact of Foster Families NRC’s Resource Boutique
Foster Families Navigation & Resource Center (NRC), a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting foster families with the resources and education they need, received a grant from the Bay Area Community Foundation to fund their Resource Boutique. The Resource Boutique aims to provide foster children with a unique shopping experience where they feel valued and empowered. […]
Bay County ARPA Childcare Grant Program
Bay County ARPA Childcare Grant Program In partnership with the County of Bay, the Bay Area Community Foundation is providing financial support to Bay County childcare providers to increase their capacity and improve their quality of services. A total of $300,000 is available through the Bay County ARPA Childcare Grant Program through an online, competitive […]
2023 Bay County Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Report Released
Today, the Bay Area Community Foundation (BACF) released the 2023 Bay County Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) Report. This report provides insight into the unique, lived experiences of Bay County residents. The intention of this report is to assess experiences with DEI in our community. The report analyzes Bay County demographics, racial and ethnic relations, […]
Supporting The Spartan Community
As we seek to continue supporting our Lansing neighbors and colleagues following the tragic shooting on Michigan State University’s (MSU) campus. We will continue to update this list of resources and responses as more emerge from the field based on recommendations from the Council of Michigan Foundations (CMF). MSU created the Spartan Strong Fund, which has […]
Staff Recommendations for Black History Month
As we seek to advance diversity, equity and inclusion practices both within our community and our organization, we will be highlighting a number of important cultural observances throughout the year. It begins with Black History Month. While the story of Black History Month dates back to more than a century ago, it was not until […]
A Commitment to Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
The Bay Area continues to grow more racially and ethnically diverse, and with this, our community grapples with issues of racial justice and social equity. The Bay Area Community Foundation (BACF) is committed to creating an environment where all feel a sense of belonging and have the opportunity to thrive. Through BACF’s strategic plan, Moving […]
John Murray pays it forward
“…Pay it forward.” John “Johann” Murray shares this piece of advice to all willing to listen, “If you have the means, pay it forward.” When getting to know John “Johann” Murray, you’re sure to discover his commitment to education and paying it forward. “…Pay it forward.” John “Johann” Murray shares this piece of advice to all […]
The Monastieres give of their time, talent and treasure
When Dom and Pam Monastiere were Grosse Pointe High School students in the Class of 1965, college seemed out of reach. Tuition, books, room and board and other expenses were more than their families could afford. When Dom and Pam Monastiere were Grosse Pointe High School students in the Class of 1965, college seemed out […]