CFNEM logo

ALPENA — Community Foundation for Northeast Michigan and its affiliate foundations will join in a nationwide celebration, today through Nov. 18, to recognize the increasingly important role these philanthropic organizations play in fostering local collaboration and innovation to address persistent civic and economic challenges.

For more than a century, community foundations have served as a trusted partner and resource whose effect can be seen in the lives of millions and in the vibrant neighborhoods that continue to thrive through their mission-driven work. During this time, community foundations come together to share and reflect on the stories of impact over the past year.

“We are so thankful for every donor and volunteer who supports CFNEM and its Affiliates,” said CFNEM Executive Director Patrick Heraghty. “The work of community foundations spans beyond the practice of giving. There is a tangible impact that can be seen in the lives of the people community foundations serve. We are more determined than ever to bring our community partners together to address pressing needs in our communities.”

Community foundations are independent, public entities that steward philanthropic resources from institutional and individual donors to support local nonprofits and represent one of the fastest-growing forms of philanthropy.

Right here in Northeast Michigan, CFNEM has awarded over $51 million in community grants and scholarships since its inception. It is also working alongside other community foundations bordering Lake Huron through the Lake Huron Forever initiative to improve and ensure the health of our lake, which affects so much of our daily lives.

The Foundation’s Giving Tuesday Northeast Michigan Campaign has raised over $1 million in support of local nonprofits, inspiring giving across the region. Giving Tuesday is always the Tuesday after Thanksgiving. Particularly in the youth community, the Foundation’s Youth Advisory Councils, or YACs, have led grantmaking for programs affecting their peers, all while learning the important role philanthropy plays in a community’s overall success.

Community Foundation Week was created in 1989 by former president George H.W. Bush to recognize the work of community foundations throughout America and their collaborative approach to working with the public, private, and nonprofit sectors to address community problems.