Grants Awarded

Here Are Our Recent Grant Partnerships

All across Kent County, we are committed to creating a community that aggressively seeks to put an end to inequity. The grants listed below are awarded from our Fund for Community Good (unrestricted fund) and field of interest funds. Field of interest funds are funds established by a donor partner to address a specific issue. Where applicable, significant support from a field of interest fund has been noted.

2022-2023 Fiscal Year

Recipient

Amount

Date

Purpose

  • Michigan Student Power Alliance

    Amount Awarded: $7,500

    Date Awarded: Apr. 2023

    This grant supports a People of Color Caucus Fellow based in Grand Rapids to support the work, relationships, and community-building efforts to address racial inequalities through community organizing.

  • American Arab Intellectual Property Association

    Amount Awarded: $2,500

    Date Awarded: Mar. 2023

    The grant is a partnership with the work of the American Arab Intellectual Property Association as they support the revival of traditional knowledge of Arab culture, including traditional food, customs, traditions and crafts.

  • Kent County Welcome Plan

    Amount Awarded: $10,000

    Date Awarded: Feb. 2023

    This grant supports the Welcome Plan Coordinator as they work on core functions and focus areas to improve new Americans’ education outcomes, maximize economic potential and engage communities.

  • Justice for Our Neighbors

    Amount Awarded: $150,000

    Date Awarded: Feb. 2023

    To provide pro bono immigration legal services to immigrants, refugees, and asylum seekers.

  • Kent School Services Network

    Amount Awarded: $300,000

    Date Awarded: Feb. 2023

    This grant award aids in continuing the community school model, which benefits our Challenge Scholars cohorts at Union High School through strategies designed to increase student attendance and well-being. This partnership was made possible by the Challenge Scholars Fund.

  • Our Community's Children

    Amount Awarded: $40,000

    Date Awarded: Feb. 2023

    To implement a series of activities to support post-secondary decision-making and reduce summer melt among graduating seniors in the 2023 Challenge Scholars cohort. This partnership was made possible by the Challenge Scholars Fund.

  • Young Money Finances

    Amount Awarded: $50,000

    Date Awarded: Feb. 2023

    To empower youth and families with financial literacy through culturally responsive education.

  • AQUME Foundation

    Amount Awarded: $10,000

    Date Awarded: Dec. 2022

    This grant award supports AQUME Foundation’s work to establish and provide in-depth resources to communities of color to learn about and create intergenerational wealth. They do this through philanthropy, estate planning, hands-on educational workshops, networking, BIPOC leadership cultivation, and more. This partnership was made possible by the George M. Ames Fund, Fund for Economic Prosperity, and Social Venture Investors Fund.

  • Coalition for Community Owned Safety

    Amount Awarded: $10,000

    Date Awarded: Dec. 2022

    Through educational events, the Coalition for Community Owned Safety raises awareness about the City of Grand Rapids’ collective public safety problems, the community’s story, and residents’ solutions for those problems. This partnership was made possible by the George M. Ames Fund.

  • Grand Rapids African American Health Institute

    Amount Awarded: $150,000

    Date Awarded: Nov. 2022

    This grant supports I Belong Strong, a new program from Grand Rapids African American Health Institute to provide resources supporting culturally competent mental health services to Black veterans in Kent County who are recovering from mental illnesses and substance use disorders. This partnership was made possible by the Cecilia Hoagland Fund for Local Veterans.

  • Has Heart

    Amount Awarded: $150,000

    Date Awarded: Nov. 2022

    Has Heart Coffee Shop was awarded this grant to open and operate a coffee shop and creative studio for veterans at Veteran's Memorial Park. This partnership was made possible by the Cecilia Hoagland Fund for Local Veterans.

  • Hero's Corner

    Amount Awarded: $175,000

    Date Awarded: Nov. 2022

    This grant provides operating support of their drop-in program for veterans, which provides mental health services, resource navigation, social engagements and fellowship, addiction resources, and sober self-help avenues. This partnership was made possible by the Cecilia Hoagland Fund for Local Veterans.

  • Puertas Abiertas

    Amount Awarded: $65,000

    Date Awarded: Nov. 2022

    Puertas Abiertas provides culturally specific mental health support for Latinx women and their families, who are survivors of domestic violence, human trafficking, and/or sexual abuse.

  • Aim to Inspire

    Amount Awarded: $5,000

    Date Awarded: Oct. 2022

    General support. This partnership was made possible by the Arthur H. Holmes Handicap Fund.

  • Boston Square Neighborhood Association

    Amount Awarded: $1,500

    Date Awarded: Oct. 2022

    Support for Our Neighbors. This partnership was made possible by support from the Fund for Neighborhoods.

  • Council of Michigan Foundations

    Amount Awarded: $7,500

    Date Awarded: Oct. 2022

    In support of the State of Michigan Office of Foundation Liaison.

  • Diatribe

    Amount Awarded: $500

    Date Awarded: Oct. 2022

    In support of efforts to raise money for the Lyoya family.

  • Greater Grand Rapids NAACP

    Amount Awarded: $420,000

    Date Awarded: Oct. 2022

    To support ongoing work of dismantling racial discrimination by building internal capacity, education strategies, and accelerating change in key areas including criminal justice, health care, education, climate, and the economy.

  • KConnect

    Amount Awarded: $375,000

    Date Awarded: Oct. 2022

    To support ongoing capacity to build a collective movement of public and private organizations aimed at ensuring all children in Kent County have an equitable path to economic prosperity through quality education, and family and community support.

  • Masa Center

    Amount Awarded: $10,000

    Date Awarded: Oct. 2022

    Making Mexican History in West Michigan.

  • United Methodist Community House

    Amount Awarded: $400,000

    Date Awarded: Oct. 2022

    To provide culturally effective solutions for older adults experiencing depression, isolation, and chronic health care issues through programming, transportation, meals, health services, and enrichment activities. This partnership was made possible by the Lucy E. Barnett Trust for the Elderly.

  • AYA Youth Collective

    Amount Awarded: $10,000

    Date Awarded: Aug. 2022

    To support youth experiencing homelessness through the Youth Stability Fund. This partnership was made possible by the Kathryn L. Adamson Fund for Children, Hydro-Chem Systems Fund for Children, Needy Children Field of Interest Fund, Homeless Prevention Endowment Fund, and Kenneth M. Sweers Fund for the Homeless.

  • Better Wiser Stronger

    Amount Awarded: $135,000

    Date Awarded: Aug. 2022

    Equipping boys and men of color with financial education, healthy behaviors, strong relationships, and reducing barriers to access and opportunity.

  • Diatribe

    Amount Awarded: $5,000

    Date Awarded: Aug. 2022

    To support We Are Water, an environmental education course with an emphasis on the Grand Rapids area watershed in partnerships with Blandford Nature Center and LGROW. This partnership was made possible by the Charles Evenson Fund for the Environment.

  • Diatribe

    Amount Awarded: $106,929

    Date Awarded: Aug. 2022

    To empower students to become advocates by fostering their voice through 1-1 and small group support, identifying opportunities, and creating space for students to use their voice to hold education systems accountable. This partnership was made possible by the Challenge Scholars Fund.

  • Education Trust Midwest

    Amount Awarded: $10,000

    Date Awarded: Aug. 2022

    To support continued engagement in the Michigan Partnership for Equity and Opportunity, a statewide coalition of civil rights, social justice, civic, and business leaders working to promote educational equity for all Michigan students. This partnership was made possible by the Challenge Scholars Fund.

  • Grand Rapids African American Health Institute

    Amount Awarded: $5,000

    Date Awarded: Aug. 2022

    Juneteenth Community Blood Drive.

  • Grand Rapids Urban League

    Amount Awarded: $10,000

    Date Awarded: Aug. 2022

    To support participants in Cure Violence, a program focused on violence interruption and reduction.

  • Hispanic Center of Western Michigan

    Amount Awarded: $375,000

    Date Awarded: Aug. 2022

    Support for three-year strategic priorities to empower the Hispanic community to achieve equity, self-sufficiency, and personalized prosperity.

  • Immigrant Assistance Center of West Michigan

    Amount Awarded: $50,000

    Date Awarded: Aug. 2022

    To provide low-cost and pro-bono immigration legal services.

  • Michigan Solidarity Bail Fund

    Amount Awarded: $10,000

    Date Awarded: Aug. 2022

    To support a revolving bail fund organized through a community collective.

  • Urban Core Collective

    Amount Awarded: $100,000

    Date Awarded: Aug. 2022

    To support technical assistance for the City of Grand Rapids participatory budgeting process. This partnership was made possible by the Kent County COVID-19 Recovery Fund.

  • Urban Core Collective

    Amount Awarded: $150,100

    Date Awarded: Aug. 2022

    To support the Kent County Education Justice Initiative, which will develop grassroots leaders and design structures that support those leaders in applying their gifts to hold education systems accountable to their constituencies. This partnership was made possible by the Challenge Scholars Fund.

  • Women’s Resource Center

    Amount Awarded: $250,000

    Date Awarded: Aug. 2022

    To support growth to serve more women with increasingly diverse and enhanced services.

2021-2022 Fiscal Year

Recipient

Amount

Date

Purpose

  • City of Grand Rapids

    Amount Awarded: $175,000

    Date Awarded: Jun. 2022

    This grant supports the Participatory Budgeting process, ensuring residents determine how public funds are spent to improve their neighborhood. This partnership was made possible by the Kent County COVID-19 Recovery Fund.

  • Grand Rapids African American Museum & Archives

    Amount Awarded: $50,000

    Date Awarded: Jun. 2022

    This grant supports the pre-development of a permanent location which will provide an opportunity for an expanded permanent exhibit dedicated to telling the story of African Americans, specifically hometown heroes, provide space for programming, and allow the organization to host pop-up and traveling exhibits.

  • Grandville Avenue Arts & Humanities

    Amount Awarded: $300,000

    Date Awarded: Jun. 2022

    This grant supports organizational capacity and infrastructure as GAAH engages with neighbors through arts and humanities to cultivate curiosity, creativity, and trusting relationships in ways that validate them as they forge new pathways. They provide community art classes, after-school and summer tutoring and academic support, and teen leadership opportunities. This partnership was made possible by the Leonard and Eileen Newman Fund for the Arts and the Robert D. Mieras Fund for Dance and Music.

  • Hispanic Center of Western Michigan

    Amount Awarded: $10,000

    Date Awarded: Jun. 2022

    This grant supports language interpretation services for mental health providers and clients.

  • Realism is Loyalty

    Amount Awarded: $300,000

    Date Awarded: Jun. 2022

    The Each One Teach One program is an intensive mentoring program focusing on parent engagement for youth returning to the community from residential placement, jail, or prison. This program supports youth with culturally appropriate mental health and mentoring services by pairing them with an adult advocate with similar lived experiences to help navigate their psychosocial development, economic realities, and self-discipline.

  • West Michigan Congolese Community

    Amount Awarded: $10,000

    Date Awarded: May. 2022

    Organizing Congolese community activities in support of the Lyoya family.

  • A Glimpse of Africa

    Amount Awarded: $10,000

    Date Awarded: Apr. 2022

    Support for African refugees and immigrants listening sessions and space for processing grief.

  • African Collaborative Network

    Amount Awarded: $10,000

    Date Awarded: Apr. 2022

    In support of the Lyoya family.

  • Mental Health Clinicians of Color Grand Rapids

    Amount Awarded: $10,000

    Date Awarded: Apr. 2022

    To offer additional community healing sessions for processing trauma and loss in collaboration with the Black Impact Collaborative.

  • African Resource Center of West Michigan

    Amount Awarded: $228,360

    Date Awarded: Apr. 2022

    To facilitate the discussion and awareness of trauma and its various symptoms and to provide human and material resources for families to address unresolved trauma.

  • Grand Rapids Pride Center

    Amount Awarded: $300,000

    Date Awarded: Apr. 2022

    Support for the Therapy Assistance Fund, implementation of listening sessions to develop strategic goals and increasing staff capacity.

  • Project GREEN

    Amount Awarded: $100,000

    Date Awarded: Apr. 2022

    To support advocacy, education and convening of partners around fair lending and economic empowerment for low- to moderate-income households.

  • Rende Progress Capital

    Amount Awarded: $331,250

    Date Awarded: Apr. 2022

    To continue relief lending efforts for excluded entrepreneurs of color negatively impacted by COVID-19.

  • Grand Rapids Media & Film Incubator

    Amount Awarded: $25,000

    Date Awarded: Feb. 2022

    To support programming, coordination, designers, and brand ambassadors for an online Grand Rapids/West Michigan history map and digital application. This partnership was made possible by the Estate of Annette Richards.

  • Health Net of West Michigan

    Amount Awarded: $160,000

    Date Awarded: Feb. 2022

    Supporting FitKids360's transition to becoming an independent nonprofit organization, which will expand their programmatic and organizational capacity. This partnership was made possible by the Elizabeth J. Steed Johnson Fund for Healthcare and Community Health.

  • Kent School Services Network

    Amount Awarded: $200,000

    Date Awarded: Feb. 2022

    Ongoing support for the community school model in the 14 GRPS partner schools, with an emphasis on implementing new family engagement strategies and increasing student attendance. This partnership was made possible by the Healthy Youth & Healthy Seniors Fund, Cherry (Mrs. James) Carpenter Fund for Children, and George M. Ames Fund.

  • LINC Up

    Amount Awarded: $14,040

    Date Awarded: Feb. 2022

    To provide strategic executive leadership support.

  • Black Impact Collaborative

    Amount Awarded: $318,300

    Date Awarded: Dec. 2021

    To provide technology and training as well as end-of-life and estate planning for Black elders. Additionally, providing protection amidst pandemic conditions for incarcerated individuals and reintegration support for Black people who are incarcerated in Greater Grand Rapids. This partnership was made possible by the Lucy E. Barnett Trust for the Elderly and the Gordon and Mary Bowman Fund.

  • Council of Michigan Foundations

    Amount Awarded: $10,000

    Date Awarded: Dec. 2021

    To support the Statewide Equity Fund designed to advance equitable strategies to address systemic challenges laid bare by the COVID-19 pandemic. This partnership was made possible by the Kent County COVID-19 Recovery Fund.

  • Ferris Foundation

    Amount Awarded: $50,000

    Date Awarded: Dec. 2021

    Enhance Latino Business and Economic Development Center efforts to reduce economic disparity, increase civic engagement, and offer leadership development in the Latino community.

  • Housing Kent

    Amount Awarded: $300,000

    Date Awarded: Dec. 2021

    To support the launch and operations of Housing Kent, a community-led effort to drive equitable system change in housing. This backbone organization specifically focuses on addressing the disparate outcomes for Black and Latinx residents in our community.

  • Nonprofit Technical Assistance Fund

    Amount Awarded: $80,000

    Date Awarded: Dec. 2021

    Investment in a collaborative program that provides grants for consulting services to meet technical and organizational capacity needs for nonprofits in Kent County. 

  • African Collaborative Network

    Amount Awarded: $150,000

    Date Awarded: Oct. 2021

    To uplift African voices in decision-making spaces by supporting advocacy and community organizing for better outcomes in health, economics, and education through programming, resource connection, and networking.  

  • Grand Rapids Public Schools

    Amount Awarded: $10,000

    Date Awarded: Oct. 2021

    To support expanded stakeholder engagement in Grand Rapids Public School's Strategic Planning process. This partnership was made possible by the William H. and Inetta P. Martindill Fund.

  • Seeds of Promise

    Amount Awarded: $200,000

    Date Awarded: Oct. 2021

    To support a place-based community improvement initiative that empowers those who live in the neighborhood to direct their own solutions.

  • The Diatribe

    Amount Awarded: $10,000

    Date Awarded: Oct. 2021

    Capacity building to expand performing arts programming and services that empower youth to raise awareness of social issues. This partnership was made possible by the Fund for Arts and Social Engagement and the Leonard and Eileen Newman Fund for the Arts.

  • Camp Always Rising Youth Voices

    Amount Awarded: $10,000

    Date Awarded: Aug. 2021

    A free 3-day camp experience for up to 12 middle-school students that helps equip them for community organizing, activism and advocacy. 

  • Immigrant Assistance Center of West Michigan

    Amount Awarded: $25,000

    Date Awarded: Aug. 2021

    For program expansion to provide immigration legal services and education for low-income individuals.

  • Midwest Tech Project

    Amount Awarded: $150,000

    Date Awarded: Aug. 2021

    To support the continuing development of a gender and racially diverse technology talent pipeline in West Michigan that provides equitable onramps for skill building, employment and entrepreneurship.

  • Young Money Finances

    Amount Awarded: $10,000

    Date Awarded: Aug. 2021

    To empower teens to take control of their finances through culturally responsive financial education. This partnership was made possible by the George M. Ames Fund.

2020-2021 Fiscal Year

Recipient

Amount

Date

Purpose

  • A Mother's Touch

    Amount Awarded: $2,700

    Date Awarded: Jun. 2021

    Transitional housing support for women and children experiencing homelessness. This partnership was made possible by the Kenneth M. Sweers Fund for the Homeless.   

  • Community Food Clubs

    Amount Awarded: $10,000

    Date Awarded: Jun. 2021

    To ensure access to healthy food and consumer choice in grocery options. This partnership was made possible by the Armand F. Gretchen B. Burch Fund.    

  • DisArt

    Amount Awarded: $10,000

    Date Awarded: Jun. 2021

    To support the Black and Disability Civil Rights Exhibition. This partnership was made possible by Leonard and Eileen Newman Fund for the Arts.    

  • Ebony Road Players

    Amount Awarded: $10,000

    Date Awarded: Jun. 2021

    To create a more inclusive performing arts community for kids and adults. This partnership was made possible by the Leonard and Eileen Newman Fund for the Arts.   

  • Grand Rapids African American Health Institute

    Amount Awarded: $750,000

    Date Awarded: Jun. 2021

    Enhance the organizational capacity and full potential for sustainability while meeting the needs of responding to the COVID-19 pandemic. This partnership was made possible by the Kent County COVID-19 Recovery Fund and Fund for Community Good.

  • Grand Rapids Public Schools

    Amount Awarded: $187,000

    Date Awarded: Jun. 2021

    Part of an ongoing relationship to promote post-secondary readiness, access, and success for all students. The support includes funding for Challenge Scholars programming at Harrison Park, Westwood Middle School, and Union High School.

  • Grandville Avenue Arts & Humanities

    Amount Awarded: $10,000

    Date Awarded: Jun. 2021

    To sustain art programming for youth in the Grandville Avenue neighborhood. This partnership was made possible by the Leonard and Eileen Newman Fund for the Arts.   

  • Host Productions Community Theatre

    Amount Awarded: $5,000

    Date Awarded: Jun. 2021

    For the development of a performing arts space. This partnership was made possible by Leonard and Eileen Newman Fund for the Arts.  

  • Mixed Roots Collective

    Amount Awarded: $10,000

    Date Awarded: Jun. 2021

    To grow artists who educate audiences about social justice through the performing arts. This partnership was made possible by the Leonard and Eileen Newman Fund for the Arts.   

  • Mus(ed)

    Amount Awarded: $10,000

    Date Awarded: Jun. 2021

    For the growth and development of youth in the arts. This partnership was made possible by the Leonard and Eileen Newman Fund for the Arts. 

  • New City Kids

    Amount Awarded: $10,000

    Date Awarded: Jun. 2021

    To empower youth through music, academic, and leadership development. This partnership was made possible by the Robert D. Mieras Fund for Dance and Music.   

  • New Destiny Pathways

    Amount Awarded: $10,000

    Date Awarded: Jun. 2021

    Transitional housing support for women experiencing homelessness after aging out of foster care. This partnership was made possible by the Homeless Prevention Endowment Fund.  

  • Our Kitchen Table

    Amount Awarded: $10,000

    Date Awarded: Jun. 2021

    For the Southeast Farmer’s Market. This partnership was made possible by the Armand F. and Gretchen B. Burch Fund and the Gordon and Janet Moeller Food Security Fund.  

  • Puertas Abiertas

    Amount Awarded: $17,500

    Date Awarded: Jun. 2021

    Supporting a comprehensive program for Latina women and their families by providing culturally competent advocacy and services. This partnership was made possible by the Fund for Health, Emma Sherwood Evans Disbursing Account, and Fund for Community Good.

  • Roosevelt Park Neighborhood Association

    Amount Awarded: $5,000

    Date Awarded: Jun. 2021

    To support the Cesar Chavez Farmer’s Market. This partnership was possible by the Gordon and Janet Moeller Food Security Fund.  

  • Seeds of Promise

    Amount Awarded: $10,000

    Date Awarded: Jun. 2021

    Facilitate improvement of resident’s access to cost-effective housing repairs. This partnership was made possible by the Fund for Neighborhoods and Fund for Community Good.

  • Treetops Collective

    Amount Awarded: $100,000

    Date Awarded: Jun. 2021

    Supporting Concentric: Multiplying New American Leaders program, increasing the impact of New American leaders through training and mentorship while sustainably growing their holistic model of connecting women to resources and opportunities. 

  • West Michigan Jewels of Africa

    Amount Awarded: $10,000

    Date Awarded: Jun. 2021

    To increase access to African history taught through storytelling and traditional African drum and dance artistry. This partnership by Robert D. Mieras Fund for Dance and Music.   

  • Baxter Community Center

    Amount Awarded: $25,000

    Date Awarded: Apr. 2021

    To address equitable COVID-19 vaccine access for older adults. This partnership was made possible by the Lucy E. Barnett Trust for the Elderly. 

  • Baxter Community Center

    Amount Awarded: $10,000

    Date Awarded: Apr. 2021

    To support the doula program and improve birth outcomes in communities of color. This partnership was made possible by the Elizabeth J. Steed Johnson Fund for Healthcare and Community Health. 

  • Baxter Community Center

    Amount Awarded: $4,500

    Date Awarded: Apr. 2021

    To support the Mizizi Maj Mentoring healing through the arts program. This partnership was made possible by the Leonard and Eileen Newman Fund for the Arts. 

  • Cherry Health

    Amount Awarded: $60,000

    Date Awarded: Apr. 2021

    To provide cultural competency and implicit bias training to front-line and executive staff. This partnership was made possible by the Patricia Haan Timmer Fund for Downtown Charities. 

  • Grand Rapids Pride Center

    Amount Awarded: $23,000

    Date Awarded: Apr. 2021

    To create safe and affirming spaces for LGBTQ+ community members. This partnership was made possible by the Social Venture Investors Fund and the Elizabeth J. Steed Johnson Fund for Healthcare and Community Health.

  • Grand Rapids Public Schools

    Amount Awarded: $240,000

    Date Awarded: Apr. 2021

    Part of an ongoing relationship to promote post-secondary readiness, access, and success for all students. The support includes funding for Challenge Scholars programming at Harrison Park, Westwood Middle School, and Union High School.

  • Health Net of West Michigan

    Amount Awarded: $10,000

    Date Awarded: Apr. 2021

    For the growth and capacity building of the FitKids360 program. This partnership was made possible by the Elizabeth J. Steed Johnson Fund for Healthcare and Community Health. 

  • Hispanic Center of Western Michigan

    Amount Awarded: $125,000

    Date Awarded: Apr. 2021

    To support, empower and advocate for Latinx communities in West Michigan by building internal capacity, strengthening their planning, and continuing their important work. 

  • Immigrant Connection

    Amount Awarded: $350,000

    Date Awarded: Apr. 2021

    To provide low-cost legal services to elderly immigrants to secure legal status, citizenship, and family unity. This partnership was made possible by the Lucy E. Barnett Trust for the Elderly.

  • Mental Health Clinicians of Color

    Amount Awarded: $10,000

    Date Awarded: Apr. 2021

    For the launch of the Clinicians of Color directory and the developing network of mental health professionals of color. This partnership was made possible by the Elizabeth J. Steed Johnson Fund for Healthcare and Community Health.

  • New City Neighbors

    Amount Awarded: $150,000

    Date Awarded: Apr. 2021

    To transition to a new permanent location to continue youth employment, training, and mentoring through good food in an inclusive space. 

  • Start Garden

    Amount Awarded: $250,000

    Date Awarded: Apr. 2021

    To support BIPOC entrepreneurs by increasing access to financial, social, and intellectual capital.

  • Urban League of West Michigan

    Amount Awarded: $250,000

    Date Awarded: Apr. 2021

    Implementation of an evidence-based violence prevention model that frames community violence as a public health issue. 

  • African Resource Center of West Michigan

    Amount Awarded: $10,000

    Date Awarded: Feb. 2021

    To support FutureNow!, a youth support program that focuses on ensuring participants are able to achieve academic excellence and flourish in community. This partnership was made possible by the William H. and Inetta P. Martindill Fund.

  • The Diatribe

    Amount Awarded: $100,000

    Date Awarded: Feb. 2021

    For Project 49507, a people of color-, LGBTQ- and youth-led project, rooted in collaboration, teaching students about housing discrimination, and organizing and commissioning community art for and by POC in the 49507 neighborhood. This partnership was made possible by the Leonard and Eileen Newman Fund for the Arts.

  • Justice for Our Neighbors - Michigan

    Amount Awarded: $150,000

    Date Awarded: Feb. 2021

    To provide legal services to immigrants, refugees and asylum seekers, to understand their choices and navigate the complex legal system. 

  • Michigan Justice Fund

    Amount Awarded: $150,000

    Date Awarded: Feb. 2021

    To advance effective and equitable justice policy, practices, and funding in the state of Michigan.

  • Urban Core Collective

    Amount Awarded: $750,000

    Date Awarded: Feb. 2021

    To support the community of practice as they work together to develop equity-conscious leaders and address racial inequities

  • West Michigan Sustainable Business Forum

    Amount Awarded: $25,000

    Date Awarded: Feb. 2021

    To work alongside community residents, Roosevelt Park Neighborhood Association and Grandville Avenue Business Association to address environmental justice and safety concerns on Grandville Avenue.  This partnership was made possible by the Charles Evenson Fund for the Environment.

  • Seeds of Promise

    Amount Awarded: $5,000

    Date Awarded: Dec. 2020

    For development of a community Health Information Hub to provide health education for communities of color.

  • Various Organizations

    Amount Awarded: $140,000

    Date Awarded: Dec. 2020

    To support organizations working together to implement best practices for providing in-person, academic support of K-12 students and families doing virtual learning due to the COVID-19 pandemic.  Organizations include Baxter Community Center, Boys and Girls Clubs of Grand Rapids Youth Commonwealth, Bridge Street Ministries, Grandville Avenue Arts and Humanities, New City Kids, The Other Way Ministries and YMCA of Greater Grand Rapids.

  • West Michigan Center for Arts + Technology

    Amount Awarded: $200,000

    Date Awarded: Dec. 2020

    To advance meaningful data collection, evaluation of adult workforce development programs and to support Community Catalysts cohorts. 

  • Women's Resource Center

    Amount Awarded: $150,000

    Date Awarded: Dec. 2020

    To ensure continued support for women facing the greatest barriers to attaining employment and economic independence.  This partnership was made possible by the George M Ames Fund and Fund for Community Good.

  • Samaritas

    Amount Awarded: $10,000

    Date Awarded: Oct. 2020

    To launch the Gateways for Growth Welcome plan to integrate immigrants, foster economic growth and promote inclusion for all Grand Rapids residents.

  • City of Grand Rapids

    Amount Awarded: $800,000

    Date Awarded: Aug. 2020

    To embed and lead with equity in City and City-influenced policies, practices, contracts and programming related to the Grand River restoration project. This partnership was made possible by the Charles Evenson Fund for the Environment, The J. Leslie Livingston Memorial Fund, and Fund for Community Good.

2019-2020 Fiscal Year

Recipient

Amount

Date

Purpose

  • Baxter Community Center

    Amount Awarded: $400,000

    Date Awarded: Jun. 2020

    To maximize organizational potential and secure a sustainable future of service to our community.

  • Institute of Ubuntu

    Amount Awarded: $200,000

    Date Awarded: Jun. 2020

    Supporting the Black Impact Collaborative’s exploration of seven impact areas for the immediate and post COVID-19 recovery for Black and African American people living in greater-Grand Rapids. This partnership was made possible by the Lucy E. Barnett Trust for the Elderly and Fund for Community Good.

  • Rende Progress Capital

    Amount Awarded: $250,000

    Date Awarded: Jun. 2020

    To provide flexible capital for excluded entrepreneurs facing the economic consequences of COVID-19. This partnership was made possible by the Kent County COVID-19 Recovery Fund and Fund for Community Good.

  • Family Outreach Center

    Amount Awarded: $50,000

    Date Awarded: Apr. 2020

    To support the high demand for culturally responsive mental health services to children and adults.

  • Grand Rapids Urban League

    Amount Awarded: $150,000

    Date Awarded: Apr. 2020

    To provide trusted employment, youth development, and health education supports in communities of color.

  • Heart of West Michigan United Way

    Amount Awarded: $50,000

    Date Awarded: Apr. 2020

    Kent County Coronavirus Response Fund to meet immediate needs related to the COVID-19 pandemic. This partnership was made possible by the Lucy E. Barnett Trust for the Elderly.

  • Hispanic Center of Western Michigan

    Amount Awarded: $25,000

    Date Awarded: Apr. 2020

    Multilingual translation and interpretation services related to COVID-19 information and community resources.

  • Hispanic Center of Western Michigan

    Amount Awarded: $25,000

    Date Awarded: Apr. 2020

    To support the distribution of funds through the La Lucha Fund.

  • Kent School Services Network

    Amount Awarded: $500,000

    Date Awarded: Apr. 2020

    To support the community school model that ensures students have access to physical health, mental health, and human services within their schools.

  • La Lucha Fund

    Amount Awarded: $100,000

    Date Awarded: Apr. 2020

    To provide direct financial support to people who are undocumented or mixed status families in Kent County in partnership with Movimiento Cosecha, Grand Rapids Area Mutual Aid Network and LatinxGR.

  • Samaritas

    Amount Awarded: $100,000

    Date Awarded: Apr. 2020

    In support of a new 53-unit affordable living community for older adults in Grand Rapids. This partnership was made possible by the Lucy E. Barnett Trust for the Elderly.

  • Steepletown Neighborhood Services

    Amount Awarded: $10,000

    Date Awarded: Apr. 2020

    To explore new approaches for how critical services can continue to be provided as the organization transitions to independence.

  • United Methodist Community House

    Amount Awarded: $10,000

    Date Awarded: Apr. 2020

    To explore opportunities for program and operational growth.

  • West Michigan Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Foundation

    Amount Awarded: $150,000

    Date Awarded: Apr. 2020

    To help Latinx owned businesses navigate the economic consequences of COVID-19. This partnership was made possible by the Kent County COVID-19 Recovery Fund and Fund for Community Good.

  • Women's Resource Center

    Amount Awarded: $9,000

    Date Awarded: Apr. 2020

    To pursue relocation opportunities that better position the organization to address growing demand for services.

  • KConnect

    Amount Awarded: $10,000

    Date Awarded: Feb. 2020

    To finalize the development of a comprehensive community plan to address child & family housing insecurity & racialized disparities in Kent County.

  • Immigrant Connection

    Amount Awarded: $100,000

    Date Awarded: Dec. 2019

    Supporting program expansion and outreach efforts to provide low-cost legal services to immigrants to secure legal status, citizenship, and family unity.

  • Nonprofit Technical Assistance Fund

    Amount Awarded: $80,000

    Date Awarded: Dec. 2019

    For consulting services to help meet technical and organizational capacity needs.

  • Community Rebuilders

    Amount Awarded: $66,000

    Date Awarded: Oct. 2019

    To support the development of a community collaborative to decrease the number of homeless families in Kent County and address social determinants of health.

  • Education Trust Midwest

    Amount Awarded: $300,000

    Date Awarded: Oct. 2019

    To expand innovative, shoulder-to-shoulder school improvement work with educators in Grand Rapids Public Schools through the Center for Excellence in Teaching and Learning network.

  • Healthy Homes Coalition of West Michigan

    Amount Awarded: $10,000

    Date Awarded: Oct. 2019

    To match FEMA support for the Fire Safety program to target underserved Spanish-speaking households in Wyoming.

  • KConnect

    Amount Awarded: $375,000

    Date Awarded: Oct. 2019

    To align and integrate the work of public, private, and nonprofit sectors in order to dissolve systemic inequity across the prenatal to career continuum, while improving outcomes for all.

  • Latina Network of West Michigan

    Amount Awarded: $450,000

    Date Awarded: Oct. 2019

    To put systems in place and build the capacity of the organization for long-term sustainability, leadership development and mission-driven impact.

  • ArtPrize

    Amount Awarded: $10,000

    Date Awarded: Aug. 2019

    To engage communities with limited access to public art and cultural enrichment opportunities in the inaugural Project 1. This partnership was made possible by the Leonard and Eileen Newman Fund for the Arts.

  • Baxter Community Center

    Amount Awarded: $50,000

    Date Awarded: Aug. 2019

    To support the #BAX50 campaign and address pressing capital improvement needs, essential to providing a safe, efficient environment positioning them for sustainability and long-term community impact. 

  • Grand Rapids African American Museum and Archives

    Amount Awarded: $150,000

    Date Awarded: Aug. 2019

    To support pre-campaign efforts toward the goal of establishing a permanent home and to encourage continued efforts toward organizational sustainability and archiving collections.

  • Godfrey-Lee Public Schools

    Amount Awarded: $10,000

    Date Awarded: Aug. 2019

    To provide financial assistance to Godfrey-Lee Public Schools to re-brand its' identity to have a mascot that is inclusive of each member of the community.

  • Senior Sing Along

    Amount Awarded: $10,000

    Date Awarded: Aug. 2019

    Arts enrichment programming at the Grand Rapids Home for Veterans.

  • Westside Collaborative

    Amount Awarded: $150,000

    Date Awarded: Aug. 2019

    To create authentic empowerment of neighbors and families to influence the challenges and barriers they face in community. 

  • The Diatribe

    Amount Awarded: $10,000

    Date Awarded: Aug. 2019

    Supporting the 2019-2020 Poetry Empowered program.