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.
Resources
Application Draft (PDF)
Writing your program narrative (PDF)
Saginaw County Community Health Assessment & Health Improvement Plan
Michigan Health Improvement Alliance (MiHIA) Dashboard
Past Recipients
2023:
Saginaw STEM
2022:
Restoration Community Outreach: Restore, Renew, Recreate Life Skills Program
2021:
The NEIGHB
2020:
Bethel Community Garden
2019:
City of Saginaw – National Fitness Court
2018:
Saginaw County Community Action Committee, Inc. – Minor Home Repairs Program
2017:
Kingdom Builders Ministries of Michigan
2016:
Saginaw River Headwaters Rec Area
2015:
New Beginnings Enrichment Center “One Week, One Street”
2014:
Thomas Township Parks and Trails – Partnership for a Better Today
2013:
Mission in the City Curriculum-Driven Playground
2012:
Deindorfer Woods Park Revitalization (in partnership with Consumers Energy Foundation)