Passion & Purpose: 2025 Community Funds Special Edition

C O M M U N I T Y F O U N D AT I O N O F G R E AT E R F L I N T

NOVE M BE R 2025

This holiday season

make more possible. access to healthy food

narrative change

after-school programs

performing arts

beautification

scholarships

community safety

good

COMMUNIT Y FUNDS FULFILL OUR MISSION

A MESSAGE FROM DAN KILDEE

Dear Friends,

I

n my first year at the Community Foundation of Greater Flint, I have been reminded how deeply generosity runs through Flint and Genesee County. From restoring a historic museum in Davison, to helping families in Clio, to creating new spaces for connection in Fenton, Flushing and Grand Blanc, our community funds are proof that lasting change begins close to home.

Each of these stories reflects what makes this community so special — people who care, who show up, and who believe in building something better together.

Community funds reflect the best of who we are. They empower residents to make decisions that shape their towns and invest in the future they want to see.

As we close the year, I invite you to join us in making more good possible. Your support ensures that the spirit of giving continues to grow — today, tomorrow, and for generations to come.

With gratitude,

Dan Kildee President & CEO Community Foundation of Greater Flint

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CO M M U N I T Y FO U N DAT I O N O F G R E AT E R F L I N T

Youth Advisory Committees Lead with Purpose

T

his year, the Community Foundation of Greater Flint’s Youth Advisory Committees (YAC) continued to make positive impact across Genesee County.

Through monthly meetings, volunteer opportunities, and grantmaking, students from Clio, Countywide, Grand Blanc, and South Lakes YACs took an active role in supporting programs that serve local youth.

Clio and South Lakes committees completed their first grant cycles since before the pandemic, awarding more than $36,000 to youth-focused programs. Grand Blanc’s YAC expanded from a single student to 15 active members, while Clio welcomed 18 new participants.

Together, they also rolled up their sleeves at community events, from volunteering at the Art of Philanthropy celebration to collecting litter and debris along the creek in Flint’s Pierce Park as part of the United Nations Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development.

They also joined youth from across Michigan at the 33rd annual Youth Grantmakers Summer Leadership Conference.

“Our YAC members are finding their voices and stepping into leadership,” said YAC Advisor Chakara Wheeler.

“It’s been inspiring to see them gain confidence.

They’re working the room and speaking with donors, community leaders, and each other about the topics that matter most.”

Membership is open to all Genesee County high school students ready to make an impact.

Interested in joining a YAC? Scan to fill out the application

YAC m em

bers v olunte

er in P ierce P ark in

Or reach out to YAC Advisor, Chakara Wheeler at cwheeler@cfgf.org or 810.767.6504.

Flint.

PA S S I O N & P U R P O S E : N OV E M B E R 2025

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CLIO AREA COMMUNITY FUND

Supporting Rural Communities: The Clio Area Human Services Fund

A

pproximately 150 Clio area families visit the Safety Net Store in Clio twice a month for their choice of breakfast food, soup, cans of fruit and vegetables, meats, toiletries, and more.

At the heart of this initiative is the Clio Area Human Services Fund, which established the Safety Net Store in 2021 during the COVID-19 pandemic to address the community’s growing needs. Guided by its mission to serve as a “safety net,” the fund provides comprehensive resources that meet the holistic needs of families in the area.

“We do not give out any expired food,” says Clio Area Human Services Fund Treasurer Nate Jonker. “We buy only food and necessities I would eat myself.”

The organization opened the doors of its new location in the Lacure Community Center, formerly Lacure Elementary School.

d in the Store locate Safety Net

Lacure Com

ter. munity Cen

CHRISTMAS IN CLIO One of the fund’s signature initiatives is Christmas in Clio, an annual event that brings joy and relief to Clio residents.

In December 2024, the event served 130 older families and 120 school families with over 300 children.

Christmas in Clio in December 202 4.

Listen to a full conversation about the Clio Area Human Services Fund on the Philanthropy Speaks Podcast.

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CO M M U N I T Y FO U N DAT I O N O F G R E AT E R F L I N T

Families received food, necessities, and items like towels, washcloths, hats, and gloves. They also received “fun” items such as toys, Clio Kindness shirts, gift cards, and family experiences.

This effort, funded by individual donors, local churches, and businesses, raised over $25,000 in 2024. The Human Services Fund and the Christmas in Clio Committee have established the Christmas in Clio Fund of the Community Foundation of Greater Flint — and are currently accepting donations to continue this effort for many years to come.

2025 Grantmaking Activity GRANTEE/PURPOSE

AMOUNT

City of Clio Clio DDA Landscaping Improvements

$

6,500

Clio Area Human Services Fund Human Services Fund for 2025

$

4,000

Clio Area Schools Clio Elementary and Intermediate School Vending Machine Books

$

1,500

Clio Cast and Crew Stage Boards

$

5,000

Clio Center for the Arts Digital Arts Update

$

4,000

Xceptional Heroes Pathways to Possibilities

$

5,000

Youth Health and Fitness Fund 2025 Clio Can Do Race Series

$

1,886

TOTAL

$

27,886

ASSOCIATED FUNDS These funds were established as a legacy to individuals and organizations who have made a significant impact in the community.  Alice L. Boyse Community Fund  Alice L. Boyse Scholarship Fund  Clio Area Education Fund

GRANT APPLICATIONS

The Clio Area Community Fund considers all grant applications that have proposed benefit on residents and seek to improve quality of life in the City of Clio, Thetford Township, and Vienna Township.

 Clio Area Historical Association Fund of John and Clarice Engelhart  Clio Area Youth Initiative Program Fund  Clio Veterans Memorial Park Endowment Fund  Katherine A. Jones Fund  Marian F. Langworthy and J. Kelly Lugger Scholarship Fund  Latture Family Fund  Donald E. and Judy M. Lee Fund  G. Jim and Marlene Wilson Family Fund

Grantmaking 1991-2025

$239,945 107 Total Grants

Scan to learn more about the Clio Area Community Fund!

Or visit cfgf.org/clio

PA S S I O N & P U R P O S E : N OV E M B E R 2025

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DAVISON COMMUNITY FUND

Honoring Davison’s Past, Building for the Future

T

he Davison Area Historical Society is taking its facilities to the next level — and making sure everyone can experience Davison’s rich history.

Established in 1989, the Society preserves and celebrates local artifacts to educate students and residents alike.

After being largely closed since the start of the pandemic, the organization is making improvements inside and out to create a more welcoming and accessible space.

One of the first areas of renovation is the museum’s ramp and deck.

“The ramp is over 35 years old — the fasteners are rusty and not allowing the boards to stay in place,” said Museum Director Jim Theolet. “Our goal is to make it safe for everyone to walk on.”

To support the project, the Society received a $2,000 grant from the Davison Area Community Fund in 2025 for its Handicap Ramp Repairs initiative. The project will be completed by December 2026.

In September, the Davison Community Fund Advisory Committee met at the new 334 Main Event and explored the community’s story at the Davison Historical Society

and Museum and the Woolley Building. The group was immersed in exhibits that showcase Davison’s rich history — from a miniature model of the town’s early days to historic photographs and a 1950s marching band uniform.

“The community foundation grant is important as it will help to make the repairs possible,” said Theolet.

The Davison Area Historical Society continues to welcome volunteers and visitors who want to help preserve and share the community’s history.

Davison Community Fund leadership tour the Davison Historical Society and Museum and Woolley Building.

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CO M M U N I T Y FO U N DAT I O N O F G R E AT E R F L I N T

2025 Grantmaking Activity GRANTEE/PURPOSE

AMOUNT

City of Davison Historical Society Handicap Ramp Repairs

$

2,000

Davison Community Schools High School Fishing Club

$

1,000

Davison Township Outdoor Education Programming Supplies

$

1,750

Greater Genesee County Area BMX Parents Association Safety Upgrades to Announcing Tower

$

1,000

Ireland’s Dream Multi-Purpose Baseball Field Scoreboard

$

1,750

Outreach East Fill the Gap 2025

$

1,334

Trinity Lutheran Church Davison Neighborhood Playground at Trinity Church

$

2,000

Davison Community Schools High School Musical Sponsorship

$

50

Davison Community Schools High School Outdoor Classroom Expansion

$

400

City of Davison Christmas on Main Sponsorship

$

250

Davison Township Trail of Lights Sponsorship

$

200

Davison Community Schools Hill Elementary Outdoor Reading Area

$

350

TOTAL

$

12,084

ASSOCIATED FUNDS These funds were established as a legacy to individuals and organizations who have made a significant impact in the community.  Graff Family Foundation Fund  Justin M. Jury Fund  Hunter Miller Memorial Fund  Jim and Lynn Peters Fund for the Davison Community  Sherri E. Stephens Fund  Rev. P.T. Wachterhauser and Beth Bravender Fund

GRANT APPLICATIONS

The Davison Community Fund considers all applications that focus on improving quality of life for residents in the Davison area (City of Davison, Davison Township, and Richfield Township); and/or on the strategic priorities of youth, literacy, basic needs (food, clothing, and shelter); and mental health.

Grantmaking 2009-2025

$98,008

75 Total Grants Scan to learn more about the Davison Area Community Fund!

Or visit cfgf.org/davison PA S S I O N & P U R P O S E : N OV E M B E R 2025

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FENTON COMMUNITY FUND

Hogan Road Kayak Launch to Improve Access to the Shiawassee River

K

in Fenton.

Shiawassee River e th to t in po ss ce Hogan Road’s ac

PROJECT FUNDS The Community Foundation of Greater Flint played a role in supporting this project, with a $10,500 grant from the following funds: Franklin D. Adams Fund $3,222 Leroy F. Ball Fund $2,000 William and Alberta Close Memorial Fund $2,778 Jeremy and Amy Piper Fund $2,000 Wade Pyles and Duane Elling Community Fund $500

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CO M M U N I T Y FO U N DAT I O N O F G R E AT E R F L I N T

eepers of the Shiawassee and community partners are advancing efforts to improve access to the Shiawassee River, ensuring safe, sustainable, and equitable recreational opportunities for all. The Hogan Road Kayak Launch project will create a designated river access point, increasing safety, reducing environmental impact, and enhancing public enjoyment of this natural resource.

The Shiawassee River is vital to the region’s history and outdoor recreation. For years, individuals launching kayaks at Hogan Road have navigated challenges, including steep embankments, roadside parking, and erosion-prone riverbanks. The launch will provide a stable, well-designed entry point and an off-road parking area, making the river more accessible for residents and visitors.

“Hogan Road has been an access point to the river for many years, but people would park on the side of the road and struggle to carry their boats over a berm to reach the water,” said Maggie Yerman, a dedicated Keepers of the Shiawassee member. “Since there is a slippery clay bank, many found it difficult to get in or out of the river. Our launch will make it easier and safer to park their vehicles and access the water.”

As a State and National Water Trail, the Shiawassee River attracts paddlers across Michigan and beyond, supporting local businesses and tourism. This new launch, once completed, will strengthen the region’s outdoor recreation economy while creating opportunities for individuals and families.

2025 Grantmaking Activity

ASSOCIATED FUNDS

GRANTEE/PURPOSE

AMOUNT

City of Fenton Free Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarms

$

3,000

Clara’s Hope Building Community and Changing Generations

$

4,000

Fenton Area Public Schools Jump Start: Fenton Parent-Child Playgroup

$

4,500

Fenton Center of Hope Community Care Complex Emergency Housing Project

$

4,000

Fenton Community Orchestra FCO Summer Program 2025

$

2,000

These funds were established as a legacy to individuals and organizations who have made a significant impact in the community.  Franklin D. Adams Fund  Richard A. Beardsley Memorial Fund  James T. Botticelli Scholarship Fund  William and Alberta Close Endowment Fund for the Loose Senior Center  William and Alberta Close Memorial Fund  Fenton Area Public Schools Education Foundation Fund  Fenton Community Cultural Center Fund

Linden Community Schools Play TOGETHER Learn TOGETHER Parent-Child Play Group

$

4,500

 Fenton High School Alumni Association Scholarship Fund

Southern Lakes Parks and Recreation Commission Linden County Park Disc Golf Course

$

3,467

 Fenton Historical Society Endowment Fund

Southern Lakes Parks and Recreation Commission SLPR Senior Citizen Programming

$

 Horace W. Hitchcock Memorial Fund 3,000

 Jason E. King Thinking of Other First Fund  Lake Fenton Community Schools Foundation Fund

Tyrone Township Historical Society Town House Project Community Integration

$

2,000

Wishing Well Theatre Fenton Shakespeare Festival

$

2,000

 Florence Michelson Fund  Popa Family Endowment Fund

Young Men’s Christian Association of Flint Camp Copneconic Emergency Communication System

$

1,000

TOTAL

$

33,467

GRANT APPLICATIONS

 Loose Senior Center Endowment Fund

The Fenton Community Fund considers all applications that impact residents of Fenton, Lake Fenton, and Linden School Districts. Priority to projects that provide opportunities for children and families, especially recreational or arts and cultural activities and programs that enhance the natural environment including trails.

 South Lakes Youth Initiative Program Fund  Kim and Ginger Virkler Community Trails Fund  Winegarden Family Endowment Fund

Grantmaking 1991-2025

$547,957 115 Total Grants

Scan to learn more about the Fenton Area Community Fund!

Or visit cfgf.org/fenton

PA S S I O N & P U R P O S E : N OV E M B E R 2025

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FLUSHING AREA COMMUNITY FUND

Flushing Area Library Turns the Page

I

n the heart of Flushing, a new chapter is unfolding — where storytime will one day take place beneath a pergola of blooming wisteria, surrounded by neighbors and the laughter of children. This is the vision behind the City of Flushing’s Flushing Library Growth Project, supported by a $6,500 grant from the Community Foundation of Greater Flint and its Flushing Community Fund.

BEFORE

AFTER

In October, the Flushing Area Library officially moved from the former Duramold Building to its new home at 220 Boman Street — a renovated former dentist’s office surrounded by nearly three acres of green space.

“The primary goal of this grant is to expand literacy opportunities across the region, with a special focus on the greater Flushing area,” said Michelle King, Flushing City Manager.

The new library is part of the growing Flushing community and is ideally located near several schools, allowing for easier access for residents of all ages.

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tion at w loca e n ’s y Librar g Area Flushin treet. man S o B 0 2 2

The location is also within walking distance of nearly every neighborhood on the north side of the Flint River, King says.

Design work is expected to be completed by February, with construction anticipated to begin soon after and finish around mid-May.

Plans include an outdoor gathering area just a short distance from the main building, designed to unlock new programming for the community. The library anticipates hosting author readings, art exhibits, puppet shows, live music, cooking demonstrations, yoga classes, and more.

The new site will also feature sidewalks and stairs to ensure accessibility.

“This move not only revitalizes a previously vacant and deteriorated building but also fosters the development of a vibrant, thriving space,” said King. “The addition of outdoor areas and future building expansions will further stimulate arts and culture activities, benefiting the entire community.”

CO M M U N I T Y FO U N DAT I O N O F G R E AT E R F L I N T

2025 Grantmaking Activity GRANTEE/PURPOSE

AMOUNT

City of Flushing Flushing Library Growth

$

4,000

Flushing Christian Outreach Center Food Processing Equipment

$

2,237

Flushing Community Schools Raider Robotics Team 5561

$

2,000

Flushing Senior Citizens MSC Kiosk Computer and Scanner

$

1,340

TOTAL

$

9,577

ASSOCIATED FUNDS These funds were established as a legacy to individuals and organizations who have made a significant impact in the community.  Don Rock Fund  Raymond J. Kelley, III and Kathleen B. Kelly Fund  Flushing Urgent Relief Fund  Shirley R. Hartkopf Fund  Joe Daily Fund

GRANT APPLICATIONS

The Flushing Area Community Fund considers all applications that have a broad impact on residents of the Flushing Community Schools District and help to improve quality of life in the Flushing area.

 Flushing Christian Outreach Center Fund  Flushing Historical Society Endowment Fund  Mary J. Turcke Endowment Fund for the Flushing Area Historical Society  Cornwell Park Fund  Moms Who Care of Flushing High School Endowment Fund  Rotary Club of Flushing Fund  Edgar L. Cornwell Scholarship Endowment Fund

Grantmaking 2008-2025

$95,012

61 Total Grants Scan to learn more about the Flushing Area Community Fund!

Or visit cfgf.org/flushing

 Flushing High School Alumni Association Scholarship Fund  Roberta Reed McWilliams Scholarship Endowment Fund  Rotary Club of Flushing Scholarship Fund

PA S S I O N & P U R P O S E : N OV E M B E R 2025

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GRAND BLANC COMMUNITY FUND

A Garden Grows in Grand Blanc

A

t the corner of Center Road and Saginaw Street, an intersection has taken on new life. The Center Road Garden Revitalization Project is the result of a community effort to beautify one of Grand Blanc’s most visible gateways, supported by grants from the Grand Blanc Community Fund and the Creasey Family Parks Fund.

The updated garden now features new planters, trellises, decorative barrels, and a modern aquastick irrigation system to keep the space healthy and welcoming. At its center stands a bronze sculpture titled Butterfly Dreams, a little girl reaching toward a butterfly — a reminder of growth and possibility in Grand Blanc.

Created by artist Jordan Rose of the Randolph Rose Collection, the 45-inch-tall piece adds an artistic focal point to the intersection.

“The garden is more than just a collection of plants; it’s a symbol of the community’s commitment to beautification and public space,” the City of Grand Blanc shared in a statement. “The city is incredibly grateful for the support from the Community Foundation of Greater Flint, which made it possible to acquire the materials needed to bring this vision to life.”

A ribbon cutting was held on September 9, 2025, celebrating the transformation and the collaboration that helped make the vision possible. Residents are encouraged to visit the garden and take part in future community beautification projects in Grand Blanc through the Touch the Earth Garden Club.

Grand Blanc Community Fund Advisory Committee Chair Jeff Stableford, Mary Madden, vice president of Touch the Earth Garden Club, Grand Blanc City Manager Wendy Jean-Buhrer and Deborah Glasstetter, Touch the Earth president.

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CO M M U N I T Y FO U N DAT I O N O F G R E AT E R F L I N T

2025 Grantmaking Activity GRANTEE/PURPOSE

AMOUNT

Clara’s Hope Grand Blanc Area Foster and Adoptive Family Support

$

Grand Blanc Charter Township Flint Fresh Produce Boxes for Low-Income Seniors

3,000

ASSOCIATED FUNDS

$

10,000

Grand Blanc Community Schools Proactive Attendance Project ($5,500), ESL Classes ($5,000), and Summer Arts Academy ($8,500)

These funds were established as a legacy to individuals and organizations who have made a significant impact in the community.

$

19,000

 Eldon L. Auker Scholarship Fund

Grand Blanc Heritage Association Museum Wheelchair Project

$

City of Grand Blanc Center Point Garden Plantings

 Helen Dennis Family Fund

$

2,000

1,700

Grand Blanc Choral Society 2025 Annual Grand Blanc Community Messiah Performance

$

2,500

FISH of Grand Blanc, Inc. General Operating Support

$

7,500

 Dr. Leonard and Mary Jane Dunworth Fund  Grand Blanc Educational Foundation Fund  Grand Blanc Rotary Scholarship Fund  Grand Blanc Youth Initiative Program Fund  Gupta Family Fund for FISH, Inc.  Kay L. O’Malia Fund

TOTAL

GRANT APPLICATIONS

The Grand Blanc Community Fund prioritizes funding in the following areas: basic needs of food, clothing, shelter; opportunities for youth to include college age youth, that are structured and unstructured, recreational opportunities — especially outdoor resources; health including access to healthy food, good nutrition, and health resources; literacy; and senior living.

$

45,700

Grantmaking 1989-2025

$1,061,949 227 Total Grants

Scan to learn more about the Grand Blanc Area Community Fund!

Or visit cfgf.org/grandblanc

PA S S I O N & P U R P O S E : N OV E M B E R 2025

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COMMUNITY FUND ADVISORY COMMITTEES

VOLUNTEERS MAKE THE DIFFERENCE

L

ocal volunteers lead the grantmaking of CFGF’s five community funds by providing their own expertise and knowledge of community needs. Working with Community Foundation professional staff, these leaders have the administrative support, due diligence, and stewardship to create meaningful impact. When you make a gift to a Community Fund, your dollars stay local and support programs and services that you see every day. Thank you for allowing us the privilege of connecting your generosity to community needs.

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CO M M U N I T Y FO U N DAT I O N O F G R E AT E R F L I N T

CLIO AREA COMMUNITY FUND John Scott Roark, Chair Bob Nelson, Vice Chair Patrick McGuire, Trustee Liaison Cary Engelhart Brianna Fuller Miranda Hildebrant Suzanne Maxwell Bob Nelson Steven Reynolds Amanda Wares

DAVISON COMMUNITY FUND Casey Reed, Chair Travis Howell, Vice Chair Chris Graff, Trustee Liaison Megan Avery Jim Cheek Holly Halabicky Connie Hill Jonathon Jury Matt Karr Kurtis McMahan Paul Snyder Granger Stefanko Dr. Megan Strauchman-Morningstar Dave Swartz Dan Wiechec

FENTON COMMUNITY FUND David Lossing, Chair Michele Papatheodore, Vice Chair Tom Rupp, Past Chair Ron Stack, Trustee Liaison Amy Begola Charles Boike Brice Carter Teresa Ciesielski Linda Hathaway Greg Krueger Christine Landaal Noah Morgan Dr. Gerianne Mulanix Patrick Naswell Jill Norwood Chad Robinson Brian Sanderson John Scott Beverly Tippett

FLUSHING COMMUNITY FUND Kim Strnad, Chair Jane O’Dell, Vice-Chair Dawn Hiller, Past-Chair Bill Bueche Elgie Bright Lauren Goslee Lauralyn Handyside Kari Hartley Justin Ham Rich Lewis Kyle Raup Fred Thorsby

GRAND BLANC COMMUNITY FUND

Jeff Stableford, Chair Andrea Bergstrom, Vice Chair Joel Feick, Trustee Liaison Donald Becker Brianne Boles-Marshall Lauren Holaly-Zembo Ed Lee Sara Naddeo Art Reyes Joanie Towarnicky

Community Funds have granted a combined

$128,714

in funding to support their communities in 2025.

RETIRING VOLUNTEERS Jeff Stableford is retiring from the Grand Blanc Community Fund at the end of 2025 after 11 years of service. His dedication, passion, and tireless efforts have left a lasting impact on the Community Foundation of Greater Flint and the community we serve. We send our deepest gratitude to Jeff for his invaluable contributions.

PA S S I O N & P U R P O S E : N OV E M B E R 2025

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Non Profit Org US Postage PAID Flint, MI Permit #223

Community Foundation of Greater Flint 500 S. Saginaw St., Suite 200 Flint, MI 48502

Learn more about our community funds online at www.cfgf.org/givelocal

GIVE WHERE YOU LIVE

T

he heart of the Community Foundation of Greater Flint beats with the people and trusted relationships we share together. Your gifts enable us to invest in much needed programs and services provided by local nonprofits.

Community funds in Clio, Davison, Fenton, Flushing, and Grand Blanc have made grants for purposeful and necessary work in 2025, meeting critical community needs. This was accomplished through your generosity. Thank you for giving and confidence in our stewardship of your resources.

Clio

Flushing

Grand Blanc

2026 Grant Proposals

The community funds are seeking grant proposals for 2026. Funding is available for programs and services that benefit residents within the fund’s geographic boundaries. Nonprofit 501(c)3 organizations, local government, churches, and schools are eligible to apply.

For more information contact Jennifer Farrington, Senior Program Officer, at jfarrington@cfgf.org, or call 810-767-8270 for more information.

Fenton

Davison