Midland Area Community Foundation grants over $390,000 in 4th quarter
January 16th, 2020
The Midland Area Community Foundation (MACF) Grants Committee recently approved $390,500 in grants to four area nonprofits.
MACF’s 2019 fourth quarter grants range from $90,500 to $100,000, each focusing on one of four major areas of community improvement: (1) building our livelihood, (2) developing our talent, (3) caring for our people, and (4) enriching our community. Successful grant applications articulated which of these areas would be benefited through acquisition of a MACF grant, using various measures and indicators to illustrate success.
“We understand that the best things happen when we work collaboratively with the community and our partners to create dialogue, advocate for change and act on important matters that impact the region,” said Midland Area Community Foundation President & CEO Sharon Mortensen.
MACF grants for the fourth quarter of 2019 include:
- Greater Midland Community Center – $100,000
Granted funds will assist in the completion of study and analysis of the Community Center to determine whether the building should be renovated, or a new structure should be erected.
- Midland County Educational Service Agency – $90,500
Midland County ESA collaborates with Community Mental Health of Central Michigan, as well as MidMichigan Health to provide services at the Pediatric Center for Rehabilitation and Behavioral Health. Moving into their new home at Windover School, funds will be designated to complete safety features within the Pediatric Center. Upgrades include installation of a radio and intercom system, recessed lighting, wall padding, bathroom features, and lead-free water fountain.
- Midland Agricultural and Horticultural Society – $100,000
Granted for the purpose of the Midland Fairground Equestrian Center, the funds from this grant will be used to assist in the construction of the 100,000-square-foot development containing 400 horse and animal stalls, a heating and ventilation system, bathrooms, heated wash racks, practice and show areas, and vending and office areas.
“With the support of the Midland Area Community Foundation, this community grant will help the Midland Fair Equestrian Center continue to be a viable and valuable business in our community,” said Fair Manager Trish Steele. “The Equestrian Center will provide an economic benefit to local businesses and area commerce, not only in our traditional season of events but throughout the winter months when new activity occurs. Equine and livestock related events provide agricultural education opportunities for youth and bring customers and visitors from across the region and nearby states. Participants in these events tend to stay 3-5 days, buying food, fuel, lodging and other amenities in our community.”
- Pinecrest Farms – $100,000
Requested funds will be utilized to assist with the addition of a multi-generational space, designed for therapy, recreation, exercise, and activities to be facilitated in order to aid in positive residential health outcomes. In addition, funding will update an ADA compliant bathing facility and add hand washing stations to increase the safety of residents.
“The Pinecrest residents and staff will be healthier, happier, and safer all because of the generosity of the Midland Area Community Foundation,” said Pinecrest Farms Administrator Joe Blewett. “Pinecrest was using two spaces for all the activities, events, and performances and it wasn’t ideal. The current spaces are not designed for the activity related space we need. Thanks to the Community Foundation we can provide a useful and multi-purpose space for what we need to do.”
Competitive grants are offered on a quarterly basis. Grants are open to all 501(c)(3) nonprofit agencies, public schools, and government entities located in Midland County.
To inquire about donating, establishing a fund, or applying for a grant, contact MACF at (989) 839-9661 or info@midlandfoundation.org.
