April Newsletter

Dear Friends and Supporters of the Community Foundation,

As spring blooms around us, we're excited to share the latest news and updates from our vibrant community. April brings with it a sense of renewal and possibility, and we're thrilled to embark on new initiatives aimed at uplifting and empowering those we serve.

Creating a Strong, Vibrant, Caring Community

Fund Impact Story:

Since the 1930’s Sailing and in particular “youth sailing” on Diamond Lake has been an integral part of the Community and taught multiple generations. Unfortunately, as lake activities changed, the number of youth sailors on Diamond Lake declined to a low number of 18 participants.

In 2018 a few members of the Yacht Club stepped in to resurrect the program. These members solicited help, purchased new boats, and found good instructors while emphasizing having fun on Diamond Lake. In five years, the program grew from 18 participants to 117. The program is open to all youth from ages five to sixteen years old in Cass County that are interested in this sport.

With help from Michigan Gateway Community Foundation, the foundation holds two funds for us that help support our cause which is the long-term success for the Diamond Lake Youth Sailing program. Since 2018 we have received $97,000 in funds or pledges for fund in the and have purchased seven new boats for the program and counting.

Louis Csokasy

Youth Advisory Council (YAC):

Our March meeting was held at the Dowagiac Area Chamber of Commerce. There we were honored to be the selection committee for the Live United Scholarship Recipient.

In the month of April our YAC is looking forward to upcoming service projects and recruiting members for next year. Just as a reminder we are currently recruiting in Dowagiac, Edwardsburg and Marcellus. Check out our YAC website page here!

Grantmaking: Chikaming Open Lands is dedicated to preserving the open spaces and natural rural character of southern Berrien County. They protect and restore native plants and animal habitats.

Part of the work COL does is working with landowners, so they can acquire desirable property. They obtain property by donation or purchase then they create nature preserves that are open to the public.

Chikaming Open Lands future plans “to have at least one significant nature preserves and one significant conservation easement property in each township of our service are.” To see the great work Chikaming Open Lands does, click here!

“Chikaming Open Lands is pleased to partner with the Michigan Gateway Community Foundation on our Myron Perlman Nature Preserve Improvements project. The grant funding from the foundation will assist in providing improved access to the preserve for school groups and the general public as well as educate visitors about the natural world through installation of interpretive signage.”

Ryan J. Postema
Executive Director
Chikaming Open Lands

Scholarship Overview

For the month of April we would like to share a special spotlight, on an important scholarship for our Brandywine students. The Ralph and Margaret Vosburgh Family Memorial Scholarship, provides one scholarship for a Brandywine Student for secondary education. Click here to learn more about the Ralph and Margaret Vosburgh Family Memorial Scholarship.

Show Me the Money Day: We are excited to announce we are hosting a SMTMD Event again this spring! It will be held May 4, 2024 at the Red Bud City Community Center, 131 S. Oak St. Buchanan, MI 49107. It’s a free event that features free and low cost financial products, community resources, financial aid and fun. Lunch is provided for this event! If you want to learn more about this event check it out here!

This year we have twelve amazing vendors joining us. That can help you reach your life and money goals.

Buchanan Area Senior Center
Buchanan College Club
Buchanan District Library
Buchanan Promise
Ferry Street Resources
Front Street Real Estate-Jason Stroud Team
Honor Credit Union
Kickstart 2 Careers
Lake Michigan College
Michigan Works!
Northwestern Mutual
Starks Family Funeral Service - Swem Chapel
The Salvation Army

We hope to see you there May 4, 2024!

Ways to Get Involved

Your involvement is essential to our success. Here's how you can contribute to our mission in 2024:

Donate: Your financial support, no matter the amount, goes a long way in helping our community thrive.

Volunteer: Ask us how to get involved in the Foundation! We are always in need of volunteers to assist with scholarship selection committees, mentorship programs, and community events. Your time and expertise are invaluable.

Spread the Word: Share our newsletter and the work of the Community Foundation with your friends and family. Together, we can reach even more individuals who want to make a difference.

As we draw to a close on this April edition of our newsletter, we're reminded of the resilience and compassion that define our community. As we enter a season of renewal, let us carry forward the spirit of giving and collaboration that enriches the lives of those around us.

With Gratitude and warm regards,
Your Michigan Gateway Community Foundation Family