MGCF July Newsletter

Dear Friends and Supporters of the Community Foundation,

As we move into summer, we are thrilled to share some exciting updates and upcoming deadlines with you. Your continued support and dedication to our mission enable us to make a lasting impact in our community. Thank you for being a part of our journey.

Creating a Strong, Vibrant, Caring Community

Ross Sanders House

On July 2nd, 2024 the Michigan Gateway Community Foundation finalized their purchase of the Ross Sanders House. This purchase will tie the growing needs of the foundation with the preservation needs of the property. The foundation, in partnership with the City of Buchanan and Buchanan Preservation Society, will undergo a historic renovation and place a historical preservation easement on the property to ensure the mission of the foundation and The Ross Sanders House are united.

"Fostering a community of philanthropy, for good, forever"

A Big Thank You to The Classes of 1973 & 1974 for Donating to The Buchanan Kickstart Careers Program

While celebrating their 50th High School Reunion last year, The Buchanan High school Class of 1973 was able to raise $7,441.47 for the Buchanan Kickstart to Careers Program. This year the Buchanan High School Class of 1974 has raised $5,626.81 and is still fundraising more money for the Buchanan Kickstart to Careers Program.

When both of these classes opened funds with us, they decided the purpose should be to provide secondary education funding to elementary students in Buchanan Community Schools kickstart to Careers Program. We are able to open every kindergartener in Buchanan Community Schools an account for free as well as deposit an initial $50 dollar deposit.

If you are interested in learning more about the Kickstart to Careers please click here to learn more about the program!

INTERESTED IN MAKING A DONATION TO THIS FUND?

Click here to make a donation online.

Or send a check indicating your gift to "Buchanan Kickstart to Careers" in the memo:

Michigan Gateway Community Foundation 111 Days Avenue Buchanan, MI 49107

New Scholarships

The AJ Smith Memorial Scholarship is a $1,000 dollar scholarship for students pursuing a degree in a Vocational, Industrial or Technical field. This is for Dowagiac and Niles students that have a 3.0 GPA or higher.

The Maudie Smith/Roberts Memorial Scholarship is a $1,000 dollar scholarship for students pursuing a degree in graphic arts, visual arts, music, photography or video production. This is for Dowagiac and Niles students that have a 3.0 GPA or higher.

The Thomas A. Roberts Memorial Scholarship, is a $1,000 dollar scholarship for students pursuing a degree in Business, Accounting or Marketing. This scholarship is for Niles students that have a 3.0 GPA or higher.

If you are interested in making a donation to any of the funds listed above following the directions below.

Click here to make a donation online.

Or send a check indicating your gift to "AJ Smith, Maudie Smith/Roberts or Thomas A. Roberts Memorial Scholarship" in the memo:

Michigan Gateway Community Foundation 111 Days Avenue Buchanan, MI 49107

Youth Grantmakers Summer Leadership Conference

Our YAC Advisor, Jennifer Popielski and two YAC Seniors, attended the annual Youth Grantmakers Summer Leadership Conference at CMU last month. They listened to motivational speakers, attended breakout sessions and networked with other YAC advisors and members across the state! They brought home some fresh energy and many new ideas to implement in our Youth Advisory Council this year. If you would like to see more from this trip click here.

Upcoming Grant Deadline

Applications for our upcoming grant cycle are due August 1st. If you have any questions or are interested in applying for a grant. You can click here to learn more or email us at info@mgcf.org.

Buchanan District Library Event Highlights

Kids attending Buchanan Community Schools can receive a FREE backpack filled with school supplies starting in August. Want to learn how, click here.

Be sure to check out the Buchanan District Library page for more information about the Bird Scavenger Hunt. Not only can you participate in the scavenger hunt, but you can also practice finding these birds in the wild along the McCoy Creek Trail here in town.

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.

We are deeply grateful for your ongoing support and engagement, whether through volunteering, donating, or simply spreading the word. Together we are building a stronger community for everyone

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