Education with Emphasis on
First Generation
We understand the importance of investing in the future by supporting initiatives that enhance postsecondary education and training attainment. In Bay and Arenac counties, we strive to make education accessible through various avenues, including scholarships and postsecondary access efforts.
In Bay County, we proudly champion the Bay Commitment program, aimed at empowering individuals to pursue their educational goals and contribute to the region’s thriving economy.
Through our generous donor and community partners we are shaping a brighter future through education and training. Together, we can build a stronger community and economy for generations to come
Our Work So Far
- We work with hundreds of community donors who are passionate about education. Thanks to them, we offer over 140 scholarships to graduating seniors, current college students, and adults returning to school. With their support, each spring the Bay Area Community Foundation grants over half of a million dollars in scholarships to local Bay and Arenac County students pursuing postsecondary education.
- Collaborating with Delta College and Saginaw Valley State University, our Bay Commitment Program facilitates $2,000 scholarships annually for up to 100 first-generation college students in Bay County pursuing degrees or certificates at these institutions.
- We have established the Summer Success Program to ease the transition from high school to college for Bay Commitment Scholarship recipients by providing expert guidance in admissions, financial aid, and enrollment steps through our Bay Commitment Advisors, who possess decades of experience and offer personalized 1-on-1 advice, tailored to individual academic, financial, and personal needs, while also serving as attentive listeners keen on understanding each student’s unique backstory and future pathway.
- We provide funding opportunities specifically tailored for adult and nontraditional learners, providing financial support to facilitate their educational pursuits.
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.
