Sturgis Area Community Foundation announces the recipients of grant funding through its quarterly Community Impact Grant and Micro-Grant programs.
Community Impact Grants support the mission of the Community Foundation by providing grants to nonprofit-led initiatives that enrich the quality of life in Sturgis and the surrounding area in St. Joseph County.
The SACF Community Impact Grants program currently prioritizes funding for projects that address the following:
Vibrant Communities: Arts & Culture, Public Spaces, Parks and Recreation, Community Engagement, Neighborhood Revitalization, etc.
Educational Attainment: Early Childhood Education, K-12 Education, Adult Education, Career Preparation, Youth Programs, Vocational Education
Community Development: Housing, Talent Attraction & Retention, Workforce Development
Micro-Grants are focused on delivering financial support for organizations seeking aid for smaller projects or initiatives of up to $5,000. Projects must benefit residents of the Sturgis area and St. Joseph County.
Community Impact Grant Recipients
Domestic and Sexual Abuse Services
Project: DASAS Roof Replacement and Gutter Installation
DASAS, the trusted and respected resource for victims of domestic abuse in Cass and St. Joseph County, has been providing vital services for nearly 40 years. The organization's current funding allows for the continuation of vital operations, including the operation of the aging Hillmann House shelter. However, the costs of maintaining the facility, which is more than 175 years old, have been increasing yearly. To continue providing protection and support for women and children affected by domestic abuse, DASAS needs to undertake significant updates and repairs to the shelter. The Hillmann House shelter has provided a secure haven for countless families over the years, and with support from the SACF, it will undergo necessary renovations to increase its capacity and accessibility. As the county's only comprehensive domestic violence agency, DASAS plays a critical role in providing life-saving services and support to the community.
Facebook: DASAS | Facebook
Micro-Grant Recipients
Affinity House
Project: Affinity House Outreach
Affinity House at Pivotal Community Behavioral Health Clinic in Centreville is a Clubhouse program that provides support and a structured environment for adults with serious mental illness. Members have access to the clubhouse during times other than the typical 8 am – 4 pm work-ordered day, including evenings, weekends, and all holidays. The clubhouse offers opportunities for recovery via employment, education, wellness, and friendships. The program also helps individuals identify and achieve their psychosocial rehabilitative goals in a supportive and empowering environment, making a significant difference for those in need. Thanks to recent funding from the Sturgis Area Community Foundation, the Clubhouse will be able to expand its outreach and membership programs. Additionally, the grant will fund a project aimed at ensuring the safekeeping of personal belongings. Affinity House will be utilizing promotional items such as Mental Health Awareness Semicolon buttons, notebooks, and water bottles, to raise awareness about this crucial resource.
Facebook: Affinity House | Facebook
St. Joseph County Human Services (HSC)
Project: Project Connect & Veteran Stand Down
The St. Joseph County Human Services Commission is dedicated to improving the lives of all citizens by coordinating and leveraging collaborative efforts. Their vision is to provide seamless and efficient access to services that support the needs of individuals, families, and communities. One of their most significant endeavors is Project Connect & Veteran Stand Down, a community resource fair held at the Centreville Fairgrounds. With approximately 75 agencies participating each year, this collaboration is an invaluable resource for low-income, homeless, and veteran individuals and families. Thanks to a generous grant from SACF, attendees will have access to free lunch, hygiene products, laundry detergent, and even free haircuts. This event is just one example of the impact that the St. Joseph County HSC and its partners are making in the community.
Facebook: St. Joseph HSC | Facebook
Youth For Christ of Southwest Michigan
Project: Campus Life Bus Particulate Filter
Youth For Christ (YFC) passionately reaches out to young people in all corners through the collaboration of local churches and like-minded partners. One generous individual gifted a new diesel bus to the YFC in 2009. The bus has since carried thousands of kids safely across the county, state, and country. However, after 14 years of service, the vehicle now needs significant repairs to ensure the safety of all teenagers on board. In the past school year, nearly 800 teenagers participated in regular trips and weekly Campus Life events facilitated by YFC. These students are introduced to trusted adults, taught vital life lessons, and equipped with a solid foundational faith for their future. YFC depends on transportation for the success of its mission, reach, and activities. With help from the SACF, YFC will continue to use the Campus Life bus as a vital asset to the community, and the students of our community. The money going towards repairing the bus will have a long-lasting impact on thousands of students for at least a decade.
The Sturgis Area Community Foundation is a $30M foundation committed to serving the charitable needs of our community and enriching the quality of life for all people in the Sturgis area. Through philanthropic services, strategic investments, and community leadership, Sturgis Area Community Foundation helps people support the causes they care about now and for generations.
For more information on grants or donor services, email sacf@sturgisfoundation.org.