Grants and Scholarships
In 2019 - 2020 we awarded grants and scholarships in excess of $13.49 million to nonprofits and students in West Michigan.
Inside the Community Foundation
We're All About Growing This Place we Call Home
For nearly 100 years, we've been making grants in Kent County, helping nonprofits prosper and students succeed. We do this with the help of generous donors and the expertise of grantees.
We've always been extremely proud of being part of the Grand Rapids community, and now that we're at a point in our lives where we can give back and doing it through the Community Foundation just makes sense to us.
Informed Impact
2019 - 2020 Annual Report
Read the Annual Report
For nearly a century, Grand Rapids Community Foundation has used the tools of philanthropy to respond to community needs. Today, to carry out our North Star and overcome racial, social and economic inequities, we must respond with intention and care. Our partners inspire, motivate and guide our work. Together, we make informed impact.
By the Numbers
Community Impact
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$21 Million Raised
Gifts come in all shapes and sizes. Last year, we were entrusted with $21 million from our donors.
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Further Financial Information Available Below
Our Recent Audit (PDF)
I want all people to do well. I worked hard to get where I am, but I did not get here alone. My environment facilitated my growth instead of diminishing it and that was possible, frankly, because someone gave money. There were breaks and people who took a chance on me, and I want those opportunities to exist for others.
Grant Partner Spotlight
Project GREEN
Teaching us how to increase access to generational wealth + prosperity.
Project GREEN provides advocacy training for grassroots leaders to navigate local government systems and advocate for policies. “Project GREEN is paving this two-way street of advocacy and change as it relates to economic empowerment. One way is to help consumers learn how to handle their finances and make the best decisions for themselves and for their household. The other way is to change systems, so that the street is smooth and there are no barriers to meet their financial goals,” says Dallas Lenear, Project GREEN director.
Grand Rapids Community Foundation People
Committed to Our Community
Our Staff
The staff at Grand Rapids Community Foundation is comprised of professionals who are dedicated to their work and to serving the people of Kent County with respect and a high level of personalized service.
Trustees + Committees
Each person on our 12-person Board of Trustees serves two-four year terms. The Board meets six times a year and members also serve on committees and in advisory roles.
Community volunteers serve on a variety of committees and help make decisions on scholarships awards, review grant applications, advise on our investments and assure the integrity of our audit.
We're Glad You Asked!
What is a Community Foundation?
Community foundations are tax-exempt public charities that help guide people’s philanthropy and are dedicated to improving the quality of life in the areas they serve.
Individuals, families, businesses and organizations work with community foundations to create permanent charitable funds that help meet the challenges of changing times. The foundation invests and administers these funds. For donors, community foundations offer a range of charitable giving options that provide tax benefits and strategic advice about philanthropy.
For the geographic region they serve, community foundations provide leadership, expertise and capital to address social issues and serve as a resource for nonprofit, civic, government and philanthropic organizations.
Learn More About us on GuideStar