We understand that our neighbors across Antrim, Benzie, Grand Traverse, Kalkaska, and Leelanau Counties and the sovereign nation of the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians have different needs and that these needs can change over time.
We are committed to using our leadership, resources, and voice to build toward a better future where every person in our region feels connected, supported, and empowered and where our communities have resources and opportunities for everyone.
Funding organizations and equity and inclusion efforts across the region through our Diversity Equity Inclusion grants.
Coordinating with our Diversity Equity Inclusion Fund Advisory Committee, a voluntary group of local community members with diverse lived experiences who come together to evaluate and make decisions about our diversity, equity, inclusion grant applications.
Growing our new Endowment for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion to provide sustainable support to organizations advancing equity and inclusion across our region, now and forever.
Building relationships with diverse local communities, including with Tribal citizens of the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians and migrant community members through the Northwest Michigan Migrant Resource Council. These relationships allow us to foster trust and understanding and support funding priorities of historically marginalized communities.
Implementing internal improvements based on recent recommendations from our Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Audit conducted by Morgain MacDonald and our Compensation and Performance Management Study conducted by Yeo & Yeo.
Continuing to align our organizational practices with the Disability Inclusion Pledge, which we signed in 2021. We were the first community foundation in Michigan to do so. We encourage other funders to join us in signing onto the pledge.
A love of Michigan’s lighthouses brought Kathy Tuckerman to the Grand Traverse region—but her passion for community is what inspired her to stay and give back. As an active volunteer, Community Foundation monthly donor, and legacy supporter, Kathy champions local causes that foster inclusiveness, protect natural spaces, and create opportunities for all.
With support from our Community Funds and dedicated donors, Goodwill Northern Michigan is strengthening trauma‑informed case management, expanding housing services, and building a collaborative network that empowers people to rebuild their lives.
Creating meaningful change takes collaboration, compassion, and flexible resources that adapt to real community needs. That’s why our Community Funds support partners like the Justice Peace and Advocacy Center (JPAC). With programs ranging from immigration and education assistance to its vital Promotoras de Salud health outreach, JPAC is strengthening the wellbeing of migrant, immigrant, and seasonal workers across the region.