Contributions and Challenges of the Latinx Community in Kalamazoo

Philanthropy in Action: Kalamazoo Community Foundation’s Commitment to Equity

By Jesús Grillo – New/Nueva Opinión

Editor's note: This story is part of New/Nueva Opinión's Contributions and Challenges of the Latinx Community in Kalamazoo series. Funded by the Kalamazoo Community Foundation.

Kalamazoo, MI – As a Latina leader at Kalamazoo Community Foundation (KZCF), Lily Salas carries with her not just professional experience, but a deep personal understanding of the barriers many families face when trying to access resources. A daughter of immigrant farmworkers and the first in her family to attend college, Lily is part of a growing effort at KZCF to ensure that philanthropy reflects, listens to, and invests in the diverse communities it serves.

But the story isn’t about one person—it’s about how an entire institution is reimagining its role in creating a more just and equitable Kalamazoo County.

A More Accessible Grantmaking Model

In 2024, KZCF introduced a new grantmaking model designed to meet nonprofits where they are and support organizations across different stages of growth and capacity. The model includes four main types of grants:

1. Multiyear General Operations GrantsA three-year funding commitment to support the day-to-day operations of organizations serving Kalamazoo County. These are best suited for groups that have previously received KZCF support in the past five years.

2. Annual Responsive GrantsOne-year grants to support programs, projects, or general operations that align with KZCF’s Community Impact WHEN priorities.

3. Capital GrantsSupport for physical improvements such as building renovations, new construction, land acquisition, or equipment purchases.

4. Mobilizing Grants (invitation only)Designed for larger, proactive investments in addressing a specific community issue, system gap, or population need connected to the WHEN priorities.

These four WHEN priorities—wealth, housing, education, and neighborhoods—are at the heart of KZCF’s strategic giving. By naming them clearly and organizing funding around them, KZCF makes it easier for organizations to align their work with broader systemic goals.

The daughter of immigrant farmers and the first college graduate in her family, Lily Salas is driving a more inclusive and representative philanthropy at KZCF.

Foto: KZCF

Centering Equity and Community

KZCF has embraced a racial, social, and economic justice framework as the foundation of its mission: to create a thriving community where people, resources, and expertise are mobilized to advance equity. This approach is not symbolic; it’s operational. It informs how grants are awarded, how partners are engaged, and how impact is measured.

“We are actively working to shift power, open doors, and invest in communities that have historically been excluded from traditional philanthropic funding,” says Salas.

KZCF's focus on racial and economic justice is especially relevant in a county where systemic inequities continue to affect access to quality education, housing, and economic opportunity—issues that disproportionately impact Black, Brown, and immigrant communities.

Language Access and Latinx Inclusion

One of the concrete steps KZCF is taking to make grantmaking more inclusive is by translating its materials into Spanish. This includes its updated Grant Guide, which outlines the application process, funding priorities, and eligibility criteria.

“Language should not be a barrier to opportunity,” says Salas.

We want Latinx-led organizations to know they belong in these conversations and have access to these resources.

KZCF also recognizes the diversity within the Latinx community itself—acknowledging that not all Latinos speak Spanish, and that needs vary across generations, backgrounds, and experiences.

Strengthening Local Partnerships

Beyond funding, KZCF plays an important role as a connector and collaborator, bringing together nonprofits, grassroots leaders, and institutional partners to share knowledge, build relationships, and identify community-driven solutions. The Foundation values proposals that reflect collaboration and demonstrate deep roots in the community.

Additionally, the organization continues to support community leadership development, mentor emerging leaders, and invest in organizations that are building long-term power within marginalized communities.

Looking Ahead

As the philanthropic landscape evolves, Kalamazoo Community Foundation is setting an example of what it means to be both responsive and proactive. Its commitment to equity, transparency, and inclusion is more than policy—it’s practice.

For families across Kalamazoo County—especially those navigating poverty, displacement, language barriers, or systemic racism—KZCF represents more than a funder. It’s a partner in building a future where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

To learn more or download the KZCF Grant Guide, visit www.kalfound.org.