This holiday season
make more possible.
access to healthy food
after-school programs
beautification community safety narrative change performing arts scholarships good
A MESSAGE FROM DAN KILDEE
Dear Friends,
In 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
Youth Advisory Committees
Lead with Purpose
This 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.
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Or reach out to YAC Advisor, Chakara Wheeler at cwheeler@cfgf.org or 810.767.6504.
YAC members volunteer in Pierce Park in Flint.
Supporting Rural Communities: The Clio Area Human Services Fund
Approximately 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.
Listen to a full conversation about the Clio Area Human Services Fund on the Philanthropy Speaks Podcast.
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.
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.
Christmas in Clio in December 2024.
Safety Net Store located in the Lacure Community Center.
2025 Grantmaking Activity
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
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
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.
$ 239,945 107 Total Grants Scan to learn more about the Clio Area Community Fund! Or visit cfgf.org/clio
Honoring Davison’s Past, Building for the Future
The 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.
2025 Grantmaking Activity
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
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
Hogan Road Kayak Launch to Improve Access to the Shiawassee River
Keepers 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.
Hogan Road’s access point to the Shiawassee River in Fenton.
2025 Grantmaking Activity
City of Fenton Free Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarms
Clara’s Hope Building Community and Changing Generations
Fenton Area Public Schools Jump Start: Fenton Parent-Child Playgroup
Fenton Center of Hope Community Care Complex Emergency Housing Project
Fenton Community Orchestra FCO Summer Program 2025
Linden Community Schools Play TOGETHER Learn TOGETHER Parent-Child Play Group
Southern Lakes Parks and Recreation Commission Linden County Park Disc Golf Course $3,467
Southern Lakes Parks and Recreation Commission SLPR Senior Citizen Programming $3,000
Tyrone Township Historical Society Town House Project Community Integration
Wishing Well Theatre Fenton Shakespeare Festival $2,000
Young Men’s Christian Association of Flint Camp Copneconic Emergency Communication System
GRANT APPLICATIONS
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.
ASSOCIATED FUNDS
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
Fenton High School Alumni Association Scholarship Fund
Fenton Historical Society Endowment Fund
Horace W. Hitchcock Memorial Fund
Jason E. King Thinking of Other First Fund
Lake Fenton Community Schools Foundation Fund
Loose Senior Center Endowment Fund
Florence Michelson Fund
Popa Family Endowment Fund
South Lakes Youth Initiative Program Fund
Kim and Ginger Virkler Community Trails Fund
Winegarden Family Endowment Fund
1991-2025
547,957 115 Total Grants Scan to learn more about the Fenton Area Community Fund! Or visit cfgf.org/fenton
Flushing Area Library Turns the Page
In 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.
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.
The location is also within walking distance of nearly every neighborhood on the north side of the Flint River, King says.
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.
220 Boman Street.
Design work is expected to be completed by February, with construction anticipated to begin soon after and finish around mid-May.
“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.”
2025 Grantmaking Activity
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
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
Flushing High School Alumni Association Scholarship Fund
Roberta Reed McWilliams Scholarship Endowment Fund
Rotary Club of Flushing Scholarship 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.
Grantmaking 2008-2025
$95,012
61 Total Grants
Scan to learn more about the Flushing Area Community Fund! Or visit cfgf.org/flushing
A Garden Grows in Grand Blanc
At 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.
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.
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.
2025 Grantmaking Activity
Clara’s Hope
Grand Blanc Area Foster and Adoptive Family Support
Grand Blanc Charter Township Flint Fresh Produce Boxes for Low-Income Seniors
Grand Blanc Community Schools
Proactive Attendance Project ($5,500), ESL Classes ($5,000), and Summer Arts Academy ($8,500)
Grand Blanc Heritage Association Museum Wheelchair Project
City of Grand Blanc Center Point Garden Plantings
Grand Blanc Choral Society 2025 Annual Grand Blanc Community Messiah Performance
FISH of Grand Blanc, Inc.
General Operating Support
$3,000
$10,000
$19,000
$2,000
$1,700
$2,500
$7,500
TOTAL $45,700
ASSOCIATED FUNDS
These funds were established as a legacy to individuals and organizations who have made a significant impact in the community.
Eldon L. Auker Scholarship Fund
Helen Dennis Family Fund
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
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.
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
VOLUNTEERS MAKE THE DIFFERENCE
Local 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.
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.
Community Foundation of Greater Flint
500
Learn more about our community funds online at www.cfgf.org/givelocal
GIVE WHERE YOU LIVE
The 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.
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.
Clio
Flushing Davison
Grand Blanc
Fenton