News & Stories

With early support from our Community Funds, Thompsonville’s bold revitalization is coming to life—from a new trailhead and visitor’s center to inspiring local momentum for renewed community spaces.

With federal funding uncertain, many families in our region are facing urgent challenges. Learn how you can support your neighbors—or get help if you need it—through local food resources and community action.

From housing and youth mental health to supporting organizations impacted by federal funding cuts, 14 local nonprofits are receiving $334,700 in Community Funds grants—helping meet urgent needs and strengthen communities across our region.

Creating meaningful change takes collaboration, compassion, and flexible resources that adapt to real community needs. That’s why our Community Funds support partners like the Justice Peace and Advocacy Center (JPAC). With programs ranging from immigration and education assistance to its vital Promotoras de Salud health outreach, JPAC is strengthening the wellbeing of migrant, immigrant, and seasonal workers across the region.

From modernized emergency room furniture to improved patient transport technology, a $109,000 grant from our Anchor and Heart Endowment is helping Paul Oliver Memorial Hospital deliver high-quality, compassionate care close to home.

Northwest Education Services is working to ensure migrant students in Northern Michigan feel supported, connected, and empowered. Through strong school partnerships and the thriving Migrant Youth Empowerment Club—funded in part by our Youth Endowment—North Ed provides vital academic, social, and community-based resources that help students build confidence, find belonging, and grow into leaders.

Curious about how community foundations manage charitable giving? Learn how different types of funds—from Community Funds to cause-based grants—help donor partners support the people and places they care about most across our region.

Through Community Funds, we partner with organizations like Leelanau Investing for Teens (LIFT) by offering flexible, responsive grant support that helps youth connect, grow, and discover their potential. With recent grant funding, LIFT Teen Center continues to expand its free out-of-school programs, serving hundreds of students across Leelanau County.

For four decades, the Grand Traverse Dyslexia Association (GTDA) has helped students with dyslexia regain confidence and rediscover the joy of learning. Through individualized tutoring, strong family support, and vital community partnerships, GTDA transforms academic struggles into success stories—like Audra’s, whose journey from early reading challenges to college graduate shows the life‑changing impact of their work.

When veterans return home, they often bring invaluable skills—and sometimes heavy burdens. In Northern Michigan, the nonprofit 22 2 None is stepping up to ensure local veterans never face those challenges alone. Through community programs, financial assistance, and a new transitional housing project supported by youth philanthropy, the organization is working to restore stability, connection, and hope for those who served.