The Grand Rapids Community Foundation is a "community foundation" that strives to use philanthropy to improve the Grand Rapids community. The Foundation's mission is "to build and manage our community's permanent endowment and lead the community to strengthen the lives of its people."
The Grand Rapids Community Foundation is located at 185 Oakes Street SW.
Financials
What it funds
The Foundation provides funding from its general endowment to nonprofits in Kent County. Its current funding priorities are projects that encourage:
- Academic Achievement
- Economic Prosperity
- Healthy Ecosystems
- Healthy People
- Social Enrichment
- Vibrant Neighborhoods
How it is funded
The Grand Rapids Community Foundation has assets of approximately $237 million based on donations from individuals, other foundations, and endowments.
History
The Grand Rapids Community Foundation was formed in 1922 by Lee Hutchins with a $25 initial donation from S. George Graves who was the president of the Grand Rapids Association of Commerce. It was the first community foundation in Michigan, although it was called The Grand Rapids Foundation until 2000.
More on its history can be found in the chronology featured on its website.
External links
- Grand Rapids Community Foundation Website
- NPO Directory Database: contains information on grants awarded by the Grand Rapids Community Foundation.
