MGCF News and Notes

Scholarship Applications Open January 15!

The Michigan Gateway Community Foundation 2026 scholarship application cycle opens on January 15 — giving local students the chance to apply for dozens of scholarships with just one application!

Last year, MGCF administered scholarships to more than 70 students across South Berrien and Cass Counties. These awards support a wide range of post-secondary plans, including college, vocational training, and continuing education — helping students pursue their dreams without the weight of financial barriers.

Important Dates to Know:

🗓 January 15: Scholarship applications open
🗓 March 15: Deadline to submit (applications will not be accepted after 11:59 pm)
🗓 April-May: Applications reviewed and recipients selected

“I am so excited to be opening the Michigan Gateway Community Foundation scholarship application on January 15!” said Jen Bomar, Scholarship Coordinator. “MGCF has many opportunities to help financially assist high school seniors with their post-secondary plans. We hope to have many applications to review!”

Whether you’re a high school senior, current college student, or adult learner, MGCF scholarships can provide meaningful support on your educational journey. Visit the MGCF website beginning January 15 to start your application and explore all available opportunities.

Good luck to all applicants — we can’t wait to help you reach your goals!

Buchanan Promise Eligibility Application — Deadline March 15

Students and families are reminded that the Buchanan Promise eligibility application has a submission deadline of March 15.

All eligible Buchanan High School seniors must complete the eligibility application during their senior year to qualify. Once eligibility is confirmed, students will be guided through the next steps to secure their Promise benefits.

“I am looking forward to working with Buchanan High School staff to help Buchanan students choose the right path to a great career,” said Brenda Hemphill, Program Officer for Buchanan Promise & Kickstart to Career. “That could be college, trade school, or a certification program.”

To learn more about the Buchanan Promise and to submit an application, visit buchananpromise.com.

New Fund Spotlight: The DeVlaminck Family Fund

Michigan Gateway Community Foundation is honored to announce the DeVlaminck Family Fund, established in memory of James Raymond “Jim” DeVlaminck, Jr., whose lifelong dedication to Buchanan students made a lasting impact on the community.

Known to many as Coach D, Jim spent decades volunteering, coaching, and supporting Buchanan Community Schools and its athletic programs. He was a mentor and steady presence for countless students.

Following his passing in April 2025, the DeVlaminck family created this fund to continue Jim’s legacy. The DeVlaminck Family Fund will provide awards to graduating seniors of Buchanan High School, beginning with this year’s graduating class.

“Jim DeVlaminck believed deeply in Buchanan students and their potential,” said Michael Rowland, President and CEO of Michigan Gateway Community Foundation. “This fund ensures his support for young people continues well into the future.”

Donations are now being accepted to honor Coach D’s memory and support Buchanan graduates as they take their next steps.

To learn more or contribute, visit the Michigan Gateway Community Foundation website or contact our office.

Kickstart to Career Update

The Kickstart to Career program had another successful December Deposit Day! These deposit days are an important part of encouraging students to think early about their future career and education goals.

“We enjoyed seeing all the festivities while we were in the buildings for our December Deposit Day,” said Brenda Hemphill, Program Officer for Buchanan Promise & Kickstart to Career.

The next deposit day is scheduled for Jan 15. Families and community members are encouraged to follow Buchanan Kickstart to Career on Facebook for updates, important dates, and program highlights.

MGCF Grant Applications Deadline February 1

Nonprofit organizations, schools, and community groups are invited to apply for the Michigan Gateway Community Foundation’s February 1 grant cycle, with applications due by February 1.

This February cycle has a special emphasis on youth-centered grants, encouraging proposals that expand opportunities, enrichment, and services for young people in our region.

Why apply?

Support community projects that strengthen local assets
Expand programs serving children, teens, and families
Leverage philanthropic resources for lasting impact

Before applying, potential applicants are encouraged to contact MGCF staff for a consultation. Draft proposals submitted at least 10 business days before the deadline may receive helpful feedback to strengthen the final application.
For details or to start your application, visit mgcf.org/grants.

Youth Advisory Council Turns Grant Dollars into Holiday Hope

Last month, the Michigan Gateway Community Foundation’s Youth Advisory Council (YAC) once again showed what’s possible when young leaders put generosity into action.

Using funds left over from their November grant cycle, YAC students launched a special holiday service project to support families across southern Berrien and Cass Counties. With just over $2,100 from the Michigan Gateway Youth Fund, the students coordinated the purchase and distribution of 84 hams and 40 turkeys, ensuring vital resources reached families when they were needed most.

The donations were distributed to trusted community partners, including:

The Salvation Army of Niles
Helping Hands of Cass County
Action Ministries of Dowagiac
Marcellus Community Food Pantry
Redbud Area Ministries of Buchanan
Edwardsburg Food Pantry at Our Lady of the Lakes in Edwardsburg

This project is a powerful example of YAC students thoughtfully using grant dollars and transforming them into real, meaningful impact. Through teamwork, careful planning, and a deep commitment to service, these young leaders made a tangible difference for neighbors throughout the region during the holiday season.

We are incredibly proud of the Youth Advisory Council’s generosity, leadership, and dedication to giving back.