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 […]

Martin D. Jaffe’s Legacy Continues for Community

Only a month ago, we launched the Garnett and Elmie Compeau Challenge to grow our unrestricted dollars, and already we are amazed at the generosity of those who have stepped forward. One such donor, Ruth Jaffe, believes in our message that generosity can change everything. “It’s a matter of the community being connected,” she said. […]

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.