Board of Directors’ Community Improvement Initiative

Applications are due by May 1 for our Board of Directors’ Community Improvement Initiative Grant. In recognition of Saginaw Community Foundation’s 40th Anniversary in 2024, up to $40,000 will be awarded to a single project in July 2024. The project must be completed by July 2025. 

The projects submitted must create indelible, measurable impacts in the immediate and broader community; be supported and planned by a broad range of users; and have a clear, well-laid plan for success and sustainability.

While this program is open to all applications that address community needs, a priority will be given to projects with a focus on diversity, equity, inclusion, belonging and/or justice. (See definitions below)

Applications open on February 1, 2024 and are due by May 1, 2024. One grant up to $40,000 will be awarded.

Before beginning your application, please contact Brian Jackson, director of donor services & special initiatives, at (989) 755-0545 or brian@saginawfoundation.org to discuss your project and to receive a grant number.

Definitions

  • Diversity – A community that appreciates and celebrates the unique differences that make us who we are.
  • Equity – A community that provides equitable access to opportunities and elimination of barriers to participation.
  • Inclusion – A community in which everyone is invited, has a sense of belonging, is heard and  understood, is valued for their authentic self, and feels safe and secure.
  • Belonging – A community where everyone feels connected with people and accepted for their true selves and inspires a sense of empowerment.
  • Justice – A community that identifies, challenges and eliminates systems and structures that limit fairness and equity.

 

2024 Community Improvement Initiative Timeline

 

 


Learn more

Watch this informational session packed with useful tips on how to apply and also thoughts about the types of projects that are a good match for this grant.

Past CII Grant Project Recipients

Heart of the City Development Center

Adult Day Support Program

Saginaw STEM

STEM Saturdays

Restoration Community Outreach

Restore, Renew, Recreate Life Skills Program

Bethel A.M.E. Church

Bethel Community Garden

City of Saginaw

National Fitness Court

Saginaw County Community Action Committee, Inc.

Minor Home Repairs Program

Kingdom Builders Ministries of Michigan

Construction Trades and Agriculture Program

The Nature Conservancy

Saginaw River Headwaters Rec Area

New Beginnings Enrichment Center

One Week, One Street – Community Youth Center

Thomas Township Parks and Trails

Partnership for a Better Today

Mission in the City 

Curriculum-Driven Playground

City of Saginaw

Deindorfer Woods Park Revitalization (in partnership with Consumers Energy Foundation)