News & Stories

When a proposed RV resort threatened the shoreline between Omena and Northport, community members rallied to imagine a different future. Through swift fundraising and a powerful partnership with the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians, New Community Vision helped preserve the 211‑acre Timber Shores property—now Mashkiigaki, a protected nature preserve with public access and land set aside for attainable housing.

Hannah Rodriguez’s experience with our Youth Advisory Council shaped her path from high school leadership to a career in community impact. Now, she’s mentoring the next generation of changemakers across Northern Michigan.

With support from our diversity, equity, inclusion funding, the Autism Alliance of Michigan is advancing disability-inclusive hiring across the region—empowering job seekers and educating employers through its Upbound at Work program.

Benzie County student, Alana Kuhlen has received five Community Foundation scholarships, helping her pursue a future in speech-language pathology. Her story is one of resilience, gratitude, and academic ambition.

After repeated basement flooding disrupted youth programming, the Kalkaska County Library received vital support from the Community Foundation to repair damage and prevent future incidents—ensuring a safer, stronger space for all.

With support from a Community Funds grant, the Thompsonville Area Revitalization Project is transforming a historic railroad site into a vibrant, multi-use trailhead and visitor destination for Benzie County and beyond.

With support from a Community Funds grant, Housing North is driving real change in Leelanau County through its Housing Ready Program—breaking down barriers and building pathways to attainable housing.

With support from a Community Funds grant, Discovery Center Great Lakes is re-imagining Discovery Pier into an inclusive, accessible space for all—connecting people to the water, nature, and each other.

Leah Bagdon McCallum’s path from Elk Rapids High School scholarship recipient to founder of Blue Orange Consulting showcases the long-term impact of Community Foundation support—and the power of giving back.

With support from our diversity, equity, inclusion funding, Friends of Sleeping Bear Dunes is partnering with local Tribes to bring Anishinaabe culture to park programming—deepening understanding and enriching visitor experiences.