March

2024

FROM THE PRESIDENT

Happy almost spring! By the time you are reading this – there are only 16 days until SPRING! 

February flew by in our office. We were happy to kick off our new Housing Stock Work Group that will be leading the efforts of the Allegan County Housing Initiative. The goal of that group is to get housing built in a community friendly way. We have a 6,200 unit housing gap to address across all price points and in all locations. 

The last few days of February, I was fortunate enough to travel with the Council of Michigan Foundations and foundations from across the United States to talk to elected officials and their staff about the importance of the philanthropic sector in our communities. We spoke of tax incentives to encourage charitable giving and to support more post-grad scholarships to entice our youth back to our communities to fulfill in-demand jobs. We encouraged them to use foundations as partners in decision-making and to reach out to us to learn more about the true needs in our communities.

I am grateful for all of the amazing partnerships that are working to serve the residents and communities in Allegan County.

Stephanie Calhoun

President/CEO

ALLEGAN COUNTY GIVES

Tuesday, March 19th, 2024

GIVE YOUR TIME AND TALENT: Join us for Allegan County Gives: A 24-hour initiative dedicated to fostering individual philanthropy and community engagement. On March 19th, from 11 AM to 2 PM at the Silo in Allegan, We invite you to “meet and greet” local organizations and learn of the different ways you can contribute your time, talent, and treasure to positively impact Allegan County.

Look below to see what organizations you can expect at the Volunteer Fair so far!

We are excited to announce a partnership with Allegan County Transportation (ACT) to provide rides to the Volunteer Fair!

If you are interested in scheduling a ride to/from the Volunteer Fair during Allegan County Gives, please call ACT at 269-673-4229. Make sure to mention the Volunteer Fair to have the cost of your ride covered by ACCF.

ALLEGAN COUNTY GIVES

Tuesday, March 19th, 2024

On March 19th, donate to ANY of the 160+ funds at ACCF and have your gift doubled! All donations up to a total of $15,000 will be matched.

Our goal through this 24 hour giving initiative is to raise awareness and monetary support for our partners. Supporting endowment funds allows our partners to build resources for future stability. 

Click here  to see a list of funds.

2024 High School Scholarship Applications are DUE SOON! ACCF offers a variety of scholarships to high school seniors and adult learners. For a complete list of available scholarships, please visit our website.



If you have questions or need technical assistance while applying for a scholarship, please email scholarships@alleanfoundation.org or call our office at 269-673-8344.

March 2024

The Teens Aiding Growth (TAG) Team, recently announced 2024 grant awards! The TAG Team is proud to provide 22 organizations with grants worth a total of $60,000.00.

This year the TAG team is comprised of 17 teens representing 7 school districts across Allegan County. TAG Grants are funded through the ACCF’s Youth Endowment Fund. This fund ensures future generations of programs and services available for a healthy and supported childhood. The annual TAG Team grant application cycle welcomes all non-profit organizations and government entities providing services, opportunities, or support for individuals 0-19 years old in Allegan County to apply.

We were so grateful for ACCF to be one of three finalists for Lakeshore Advantage’s inaugural Strategic Partner of the Year Award. This award recognizes a trailblazing non-profit organization that is helping to overcome barriers to economic growth and opportunity. ACCF was nominated specifically for tackling challenges related to housing on the lakeshore, through the Allegan County Housing Initiative.

Congratulations to our non-profit partner, ODC Network, on winning the award for their contributions to increasing access to childcare.

THANK YOU for making the 2024 Peanut Butter Drive a success once again! To our donors, community partners, and ACFPC members - we couldn't do it without you.

From reading challenges, to friendly competitions between local clubs and gatherings with coffee and cookies - your efforts have helped ensure food security in Allegan County.

Stay tuned for the results as we count jars and dollars!