Recent Grants

Arts

Beaver Island Community Center - Grant Award: $6,960
As the island’s primary public gathering space, the BIC Center provides year round programming that supports residents of all ages, fosters social cohesion, and strengthens the island’s cultural identity. The Senior Art Program is designed to meet the unique needs of older adults by offering accessible, therapeutic, and socially engaging arts experiences. Each month, participants will explore a variety of artistic mediums; including painting, drawing, clay, and mixed media projects, through guided instruction that encourages creativity, confidence, and personal expression. These sessions also serve as an important source of social connection, reducing isolation and fostering a sense of belonging among seniors. Grant funds will support the purchase of materials for the art sessions.

Boyne Arts Collective - Grant Award: $5,000  
In 2026, the Boyne Arts Center will relocate to a new street-level downtown space, with the goal of opening before summer. The new location includes a dedicated classroom with natural light, a sink, and an improved footprint, allowing for flexible layouts that accommodate different ages, abilities, and art forms. Feedback from previous offerings shows a clear need for beginner-level visual arts instruction specifically designed for adults. Grant funds will support a series of four-week introductory adult classes in Alcohol Ink, Acrylics, Pastels, Watercolor, Drawing, and Gouache, taught by regional instructors.

Charlevoix Circle of Arts - Grant Award: $2,500  
Last spring's ice storm caused millions of dollars in damage and permanently altered the region’s landscape. The storm represented more than physical destruction—it was a shared experience of disruption, grief, and resilience. While infrastructure is rebuilt and debris cleared, the emotional and cultural impact of such events often goes unaddressed. To address the need for spaces that allow communities to reflect, process, and preserve collective memory. Grant funding will support direct program expenses for “Heart of a Tree, Soul of a Storm,” a juried art exhibit this fall, which ensures that a defining environmental event in our region’s recent history is documented and interpreted through the lens of local artists.

Jordan River Arts Council - Grant Award: $18,000
JRAC is working to address accessibility barriers within its historic Carnegie Library facility in downtown East Jordan. While JRAC's mission is rooted in inclusivity and access for all, the current building does not meet ADA accessibility standards. To fulfill its mission and ensure equitable access to the arts for all, JRAC must undertake a comprehensive redesign of the physical space. Grant funding will help fund the development of a professional architectural concept plan, engineering services, and stamped building architectural blueprints.

Raven Hill Discovery Center - Grant Award: $4,055
Raven Hill Discovery Center will pilot a series of interdisciplinary-themed tours that will explore topics such as Art Across the Ages, Blurred Boundaries, Geologic Time, and Earth Systems. These "Threads Interwoven" tours are designed to connect art, history, and science through storytelling, guided exploration, and hands-on learning. Grant funds will support specific arts and culture and environment themed tours for people of all ages in Charlevoix County.

Wagbo Peace Center - Grant Award: $3,400
Wagbo had a successful year offering programs and events that resonated with the community in 2025, and they are excited to keep the momentum going this year. In 2026, Wagbo plans to increase the number of stand-alone events and workshops and continue offering monthly Full Moon Feasts (potluck and program), with topics focused on cultural discussions (relating to Peace and Justice) and arts intersecting with wellness. Grant funds will support hiring presenters and creating marketing materials for several arts and culture events.

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dance

Crooked Tree Arts Center - Grant Award: $3,000
Rural communities in the Little Traverse Bay region have limited opportunities to experience nationally significant modern dance, engage with professional artistic mentorship, or participate in collaborative creative projects that connect local stories to broader American cultural history. CTAC’s tribute to the centennial of the Martha Graham Dance Company underscores the enduring power and relevance of Martha Graham’s vision. By weaving together live performances, educational outreach, community collaboration, and a gallery exhibition, this centenary celebration responds directly to three pressing community needs: expanded arts access, deeper arts education, and inclusive cultural participation. Grant funds will support production costs, educational and marketing materials, fall school tours, and more.

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History / Culture

Beaver Island Historical Society - Grant Award: $5,000
Commercial fishing is foundational to Beaver Island’s identity and to the broader maritime heritage of Charlevoix County. The Beaver Island Marine Museum is the last remaining net shed in the Beaver Harbor and holds a growing collection of artifacts that document this history and run the risk of deterioration if they aren't properly cared for, stored, and displayed. Grant funds will support the design & fabrication of a permanent, museum-grade exhibit case that protects artifacts in an enclosed, secure & environmentally protective space, while making them accessible and engaging for the public.

Beaver Island Irish Heritage Group - Grant Award: $5,000
The Emerald Isle Irish Festival is a small, community-driven event celebrates Irish culture through music, dance, and fellowship. This year, grant funds will help to bring the world-renowned traditional Irish ensemble Altan (based in Donegal, Ireland) to the Irish Feile (festival) on Beaver Island in September. Hosting Altan will elevate the festival to new heights and offer attendees a truly unforgettable experience. Adding to the cultural significance of Altan's appearance, the lead singer of Altan, Mairéad Ní Mhaonaigh, has a direct connection to Beaver Island through longstanding associations with County Donegal fiddling traditions.

Tara's Meadow Education & Retreat Center - Grant Award: $4,478  
The resiliency of Beaver Island is dependent upon many things, but includes the acknowledgement, honoring, support, and continued engagement with its cultural roots. Tara’s Meadow will deepen its “Braiding Cultures” offerings this year with a full day of educational and celebratory events in June that honor both the Island’s Native American and Irish roots, including community conversations, storytelling, and music. Grant funds will support the participation of storytellers, speakers, and musicians.

The New People Foundation - Grant Award: $1,000
"The Seven Fires Prophecy: The Story of the Anishinaabe People in Michigan" is a small, free public-facing booklet that blends cultural storytelling with accessible anthropology/archaeology to help Michiganders understand Anishinaabe history—from deep time (circa 10,000 BCE) through first contact and the modern era. Centered on the Seven Fires Prophecy as the narrative spine, the booklet translates scholarly knowledge into a short, readable format for everyday residents, students, book clubs, and civic groups to deliberate over with the goal of expanding cultural literacy and elevating the living presence of Anishinaabe people and teachings as a foundational part of Michigan’s story. Grant funds will support design and production of the booklet.

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Music

City of Boyne City - Grant Award: $1,000
As the only year-round market in Northern Michigan, The Boyne City Farmers Market is committed to providing the community with an inclusive environment to gather, shop, and eat locally, all while enjoying the unique offerings of Northern Michigan and the beautiful setting along Lake Charlevoix. Each Wednesday and Saturday they provide patrons with music from 10 am until noon. Showcasing musicians from all areas of Michigan and beyond provides a more enjoyable experience for the customer, higher traffic for vendors and creates a vibrant place for the community to gather. Grant funds will support the 2026 summer Farmers Market music.\

Great Lakes Center for the Arts - Grant Award: $4,055
The Dorothy Gerber Strings Program (DGSP) provides string music instruction for youth throughout Charlevoix, Emmet, and Antrim Counties—an opportunity that otherwise would be unavailable due to a lack of resources for school orchestra programs. There is no fee for these classes; the only cost is renting an instrument for which scholarships are available. DGSP has grown exponentially in recent years, with approximately 370 students participating in the program during the 2025-26 school year, of whom approximately 35% are Charlevoix County students. Grant funds will support replacing and repairing instruments, purchasing sheet music, and will support scholarships for Charlevoix County students.

Great Lakes Chamber Orchestra - Grant Award: $4,055
GLCO is planning two powerful concerts in their 25th Anniversary Season: Violins of Hope (April 25) and Carnegie Homecoming (June 12). Violins of Hope features instruments that survived the Holocaust and were made playable again as symbols of resilience, hope, and the enduring power of music. Carnegie Homecoming will celebrate GLCO making its debut at Carnegie Hall, NYC and representing our region on one of the most prestigious stages in the world, by bringing that same program home to Northern Michigan to the community that made it possible. Grant funds will support both performances. 

Tunes Music Makers - Grant Award: $6,500
Traditional fiddle music is deeply connected to Beaver Island’s Irish heritage and Great Lakes cultural history. However, without intentional programming, young students have little structured access to this musical tradition. The Ruby John Elementary Fiddle Residency was created to address this gap by providing biweekly, group-based instruction for K–6 students throughout the academic year. Grant funds will support fiddle lessons for elementary students on BI.

Camp Daggett - Grant Award: $7,000  
Each year, sand at the Camp Daggett beach area has to be replenished to maintain the modest beachfront area. To reduce erosion and protect the shoreline, grant funds will support Camp Daggett installing a stormwater retention basin and retaining wall. This should eliminate the need for replacing beach sand in the future.

Conservation Resource Alliance - Grant Award: $30,000
CRA's main program, River Care, fulfills their mission of promoting the wise use and management of northwest Michigan's most precious natural resource – our watersheds – which form the ecological and economic "lifeblood" of the region. The goal of River Care is the complete restoration and revitalization of watersheds by improving rural infrastructure and minimizing sedimentation. Grant funds will support replacing two undersized and erosive road-stream crossings on Marvon Creek with adequately sized concrete box culverts to allow full aquatic passage and natural stream flow.

Little Traverse Conservancy - Grant Award: $11,000
LTC maintains and manages over 100 nature preserves and working forest reserves totaling 5,517 acres in Charlevoix County. Maintenance includes reclaiming trails from overgrown vegetation, building or replacing boardwalks/footbridges, and managing erosion on existing trails and infrastructure. Grant funds will support improvements at the Rogers/Dressel/Jordan River Preserve Complex in East Jordan, The Hill Nature Preserve in Boyne City, Little Sand Bay Nature Preserve on Beaver Island, and the Nathan "Barry" Driggers Nature Preserve in Charlevoix.

Raven Hill Discovery Center - Grant Award: $5,745  
RHDC will pilot a series of interdisciplinary-themed tours that will explore topics such as Art Across the Ages, Blurred Boundaries, Geologic Time, and Earth Systems. These "Threads Interwoven" tours are designed to connect art, history, and science through storytelling, guided exploration, and hands-on learning. Grant funds will support specific arts and culture and environment themed tours for people of all ages in Charlevoix County.

St. James Township - Grant Award: $9,000  
St. James Township on Beaver Island and the Little Traverse Conservancy are collaborating to create a shared management plan, police ordinance, and monitoring features to protect, preserve, and provide education about two unique natural areas that have been negatively impacted by inappropriate use - Gull Harbor Nature Area and the adjacent Stanhope Nature Preserve. Grant funds will support a coordinated management plan, public educational materials, and security cameras.

Tip of the Mitt Watershed Council - Grant Award: $35,757
The Bear River watershed, linking Walloon Lake to Little Traverse Bay, faces significant challenges including aging and undersized road/stream crossings, erosion, stormwater inputs, and more. This led to the formation of the "Healing the Bear Initiative," a collaborative effort led by Tip of the Mitt Watershed Council. One key priority is replacing degraded and undersized road/stream crossings, which impair water quality, restrict the passage of fish and other aquatic organisms, and fragment habitat. Grant funds will support replacing two such crossings in Charlevoix County on Chandler Hill Road over Springbrook Creek to restore aquatic connectivity in this important tributary.

Wagbo Peace Center - Grant Award: $3,988  
Wagbo will offer environmental education programs focused on appreciation for woodlands, meadows, and/or wetlands while raising awareness and encouraging environmental stewardship. Programs will introduce attendees to the art of mushroom growing, forest meditation, hiking, identifying plant species, and more. Grant funds will support hiring presenters, marketing materials, and supplies for workshops and events.

Arts

Bay Township Grant Amount: $1,000

Bay Township requests support for the development and permanent installation of an elegant life-size art piece in Horton Bay. The third sculpture to complete a trifecta of Ernest Hemingway tributes in the region, the Young Boy and the Stream serves as a reminder of the basis for Hemingway’s attraction to the area – the fishing and extensive bounty of natural resources. Grant funds will support the installation of the sculpture in Bay Township.

Boyne Arts Collective Grant Amount: $2,500

The BAC, with the help of the Boyne District Library, are planning to offer 5 one-week children's art camps this summer. The camps will introduce children to famous artists and explore different mediums through literacy, art history, and engaging projects. At the end of each week-long camp, there will be an "art gallery" exhibit of that week’s work at the library that will remain on display for a month. Grant funds will support scholarships to ensure participation, regardless of financial circumstances.

Charlevoix Circle of Arts Grant Amount: $2,000

CCA will use grant funding to support their fall art exhibition, “Big and Small,” which will be on display this fall. This unique exhibit will explore the power of scale in visual art and encourage viewers to consider how size influences perception, detail, and artistic impact. By showcasing a diverse group of Michigan artists and offering interactive community engagement activities, this exhibit aligns with CCA's mission to make art accessible, educational, and inspiring.

Crooked Tree Arts Center Grant Amount: $3,000

Crooked Tree Arts Center's fall 2025 exhibition and programming will be "The Art of Wellbeing," and it seeks to address the growing stress, anxiety, mental health and social challenges in our community, which have been exacerbated by cultural, political, and economic uncertainties. Research shows that participating in artistic activities can reduce stress, anxiety, and depressive symptoms. Grant funds will support the exhibit’s interactive and engaging educational programs as well as costs of materials needed for youth outreach programs and school tours.

Great Lakes Center for the Arts Grant Amount: $2,500

Great Lakes Center for the Arts (GLCFA) believes strongly in performing arts as part of a well-rounded academic experience for area K-12 students. Their Next Gen program, provides arts and culture opportunities to students that would otherwise be inaccessible, as well as free educational resources to area educators to enhance the learning experience of every show. Grant funds will support Next Gen’s October program: “Cirque Mechanics—Tilt! A Circus Thrill Ride to Center Stage” to educate and engage the community, including students from Charlevoix County schools, at no cost.

Jordan River Arts Council Grant Amount: $5,500

For over 36 years, the Jordan River Arts Council (JRAC) has thrived as a grassroots nonprofit, largely operated by a dedicated team of volunteers. While this volunteer-driven model has sustained the organization’s core programs, it has become increasingly challenging to maintain the necessary level of expertise, time, and commitment required to support both daily operations and long-term growth. Grant funds will support a capacity assessment for the organization, which will result in recommendations and an action plan for moving forward.

Northwest Michigan Arts and Culture Network Grant Amount: $1,000

While Charlevoix County has a vibrant creative sector, many artists and organizations struggle to find professional development opportunities, meaningful collaboration, and support systems that help them grow. This disconnect limits the full potential of the arts to contribute to the local economy, cultural identity, and quality of life. To address these challenges, the NW MI Arts & Culture Network is expanding its work in Charlevoix County through three targeted strategies; offering workshops for professional development, convening gatherings for relationship-building & community engagement, and strengthening the Arts & Culture Summit. Grant funds will support these initiatives, which aim to reduce isolation, strengthen professional skills, and foster a culture where the arts are valued as a core part of Charlevoix County’s future.

Tara's Meadow Education & Retreat Center Grant Amount: $3,770

Tara’s Meadow will honor and celebrate Beaver Island’s Native American and Irish roots by hosting a weekend of “Braiding Irish and Native American Cultures” during the annual Sustainability Fair in June. This will include internationally known, Grammy-nominated recording artist, speaker, author and activist “John Two-Hawks”; local Anishinaabe Wisdom Keeper Grandmother Gennie Morgan; and Michigan’s own Irish and Native American Instrumentalist musician Linda Hammond leading various community conversations and presentations to enhance cultural awareness and educate the community. Grant funds will support bringing John Two-Hawks to Beaver Island.

Traverse City Dance Project Grant Amount: $3,000

For the last two summers, as part of the Live on the Lake series in downtown Charlevoix, TCDP delivered memorable dance performances that drew approximately 200 to 350 attendees each, including families and children. By offering free admission, TCDP makes professional dance accessible to a diverse audience, enriching the cultural experience of community members. This summer, a new youth movement and dance class will be instructed by one of the professional dancers and will be open to all ages at no cost. Grant funds will support this year’s dance performance and youth movement class.

Wagbo Peace Center Grant Amount: $7,000

Wagbo Farm began renovating an indoor space to be used for arts classes with emphasis on fiber arts in 2024. Those renovations are nearly complete with the exception of a heating system to make it a year round venue, which will support gatherings and classes focused on the fiber arts. In the year ahead, they are also planning Arts & Culture programming that will integrate concepts of peace & justice, in line with the organization’s mission. Grant funds will support a portion of the heating system as well as a portion of the new and expanded programming.

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History / Culture

Beaver Island Historical Society Grant Amount: $4,500

The Print Shop Museum houses the BI Historical Society's Native American displays, but the current displays are outdated and limited. BIHS, in close partnership with Odawa Native American women, will create at least four new panel displays and offer related programming about Native Americans and the Indian Boarding Schools in the Charlevoix & Petoskey region. The exhibit, which will be designed as a traveling display, will educate visitors about the history of the Anishinaabek people within the areas of Charlevoix & Emmet counties. Grant funds will support creation of the exhibit and related programming.

Charlevoix Historical Society Grant Amount: $3,000

The museum and Charlevoix Historical Society headquarters are located in the historic Harsha House at 103 State Street, built in 1892. A number of renovations have taken place since it was donated to the Society in 1979, including major renovation and restoration work since 2016. As part of the Master Plan, renovations are set to continue to the second floor, increasing capacity for artifact storage. In preparing for this work, noticeable sagging has been detected in the floors and cracks in places in the walls, indicating possible structural deficiencies which have developed over time. Before any further work is done, grant funds will support a structural assessment for the building and engineering recommendations.

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Music

Beaver Island Performing Arts Alliance Grant Amount: $1,000

BIPAA seeks support for the return visit of pianist Jaeden Izik-Dzurko - winner of major landmark competitions and widely regarded as one of the most exciting and creative musicians of his generation - to headline the 2025 Baroque on Beaver summer music festival. Jaeden embodies the high musical standards associated with Baroque on Beaver and earns Beaver Island greater visibility in the larger musical world. Grant funds will support Jaeden's two performances on Beaver Island this summer.

City of Boyne City Grant Amount: $1,497

The Boyne City Farmers Market is a year-round market that brings people together in an inclusive environment where the entire community can gather, shop, and eat locally. Each week, in partnership with Blissfest, they showcase local musicians from around the region to create an enriching experience for patrons and an avenue for artists to gain exposure. Last summer, including music on Wednesdays increased attendance by 30-40 people each week. Grant funds will continue this season’s market music.

City of Charlevoix Grant Amount: $3,500

Building on the popularity of the Live on the Lake concert series, the City of Charlevoix plans to shift the series to August and early September to support and encourage economic activity beyond the peak tourism season to benefit local residents and businesses. This year, with grant support, they plan to cap the series with a Jazz Festival, celebrating both regional and visiting musicians while showcasing Charlevoix as a destination for high-quality arts and music experiences.

Great Lakes Chamber Orchestra Grant Amount: $7,000

The GLCO is partnering with a professional ballet company and a local ballet school to prepare Stravinsky’s Rite of Spring, taking place on July 17th at the Great Lakes Center for the Arts. Known as “the work that caused a riot,” its 1913 Paris premiere shocked audiences and forever changed the future of music composition. The score, widely regarded as the first modernist orchestral work, remains one of the most recorded pieces in the classical repertoire. Grant funds will support the production - a major artistic milestone for musicians and audiences as it will be the first time this piece is performed in our community.

Tunes Music Makers Grant Amount: $4,000

Beaver Island has a long-standing tradition of music, particularly Irish, Scottish, and Canadian fiddling; however, access to quality music education has been extremely limited due to its geographic isolation. The Tunes Music Makers program was established to fill this gap, ensuring that children and community members have opportunities to engage with and learn traditional music. Grant funds will help to bring Indigenous fiddler, Ruby John, an accomplished musician specializing in Irish, Scottish, and Canadian fiddle traditions, to Beaver Island once a month to provide fiddle lessons to elementary students.

Au Sable Institute Grant Amount: $2,500

Au Sable Institute’s year-long program, Restoration Ecology for Young Students (REYS), is designed to introduce students to the science and the practice of ecological restoration within their local watershed using native plants. Over the course of ten lessons, REYS helps students and teachers develop an understanding of physical, earth, and living systems, and scientific inquiry and investigation. They will partner with Little Traverse Conservancy to select the restoration habitat within the Lake Charlevoix Watershed. Grant funds will support bringing REYS to Charlevoix Elementary 4th grade students during the 2025-2026 school year.

Beaver Island Association Grant Amount: $6,500

Beaver Island is faced with a growing environmental issue of abandoned vehicles scattered across the Island due to the expense associated with disposal. The primary objective of the BIA Blight Remediation program is to environmentally and safely remove abandoned vehicles from Beaver Island by barge to a licensed scrapyard at no cost to the property owner. They also remove and dispose of abandoned appliances, scrap metal, snowmobiles, and lawn equipment by filling vehicles being removed for disposal. Grant funds will support the initiative, which aims to reduce environmental hazards, improve community aesthetics, promote sustainable waste management practices, and protect the Island's drinking water sources and natural resources.

Friends of the Boyne River Grant Amount: $5,000

The Boyne River Nature Area is a sloping, grassy area surrounded by trees, with a ravine that leads to a wetland and then to the Boyne River. To bring awareness to the wetland and provide environmental education, Friends of the Boyne River is working with Tip of the Mitt Watershed Council to introduce a "Treasure Hunt". Seven signs spaced out along the ravine’s path will have photos of a different wetland plant on each sign for visitors to learn about and locate. Grant funds will help to purchase and install the educational signage.

Lake Charlevoix Association Grant Amount: $5,000

One of LCA's key objectives in 2025 is the Lake Charlevoix Watershed Community Map Project. Various "trails" will be identified around the Lake Charlevoix Watershed, including bike paths, lake access locations, family activities, shopping, and more. While it will encourage shopping and dining, the focus will be a tool for community building around the lake, including an opportunity for LCA to educate area residents and visitors about fellow lake and watershed partner organizations and how they all fit and work together for the protection of Lake Charlevoix. Grant funds will support the creation of the Community Map.

Raven Hill Discovery Center Grant Amount: $5,000

Raven Hill Discovery Center plans to install a Living STEM Lab at Deer Creek. This hands-on outdoor lab will create opportunities for scientific exploration, environmental stewardship, and sustainable practices. Students and citizen scientists will monitor and collect data on the water, land, and air in and around Deer Creek, which will be digitally displayed for visitors. This monitoring program will help assess Deer Creek’s health and demonstrate changes over time, across seasons and years. Grant funds will support installing the Living STEM Lab at Deer Creek.

Tara's Meadow Education & Retreat Center Grant Amount: $6,300

Tara’s Meadow (TM) is on the direct path of two eco-tourist destinations on Beaver Island: the Birding Trail and the recently designated Dark Sky Sanctuary. They have also experienced an increase in event participants and overnight guests for their own retreats and programs, but they have reached their capacity to support the growing number of guests due to limited restroom, bath, and kitchen facilities. With the long range goal of building an Environmental and Cultural Education Center that will also house overnight guests, TM will begin with the installation of an environmentally innovative septic system that will support a Phase 1 Environmental Education Camp, with a modular kitchen, toilet and bathing facility. Grant funds will support the installation of the septic system.

Tip of the Mitt Watershed Council Grant Amount: $15,000

Tip of the Mitt Watershed Council continues their efforts to remove a small dam on Stover Creek just south of Charlevoix. Dam removal is warranted for ecosystem and safety concerns, and is also a priority in the Lake Charlevoix Watershed Management Plan (2012) due to its impact on the stream and lake. Grant funds will support the construction phase of the dam removal and stream restoration.

Top of Michigan Trails Council Grant Amount: $14,000

Top of Michigan Trails Council is planning for the construction of the Charlevoix Trailway, the "last mile" of the Little Traverse Wheelway, which will connect trail users on a safe and convenient route into downtown Charlevoix, and beyond. Currently, the southern tip of the Little Traverse Wheelway terminates at Waller Road, leaving trail users to utilize the road shoulder and follow “Bike Route” signs into town, which can feel unsafe. The Charlevoix Trailway will provide a safer option and create access for the first time to a Little Traverse Conservancy preserve along Waller Road. Grant funds will support the construction of the Charlevoix Trailway.

Village of Boyne Falls Grant Amount: $35,210

The Village of Boyne Falls and Conservation Resource Alliance are working together to remove the aging, high-risk dam that currently obstructs natural river flow on the South Branch of the Boyne River, a high-quality cold-water trout stream that supports diverse aquatic life. Removal of the dam would reconnect over 38 miles of upstream habitat, improve water quality, and reduce the risk of an uncontrolled failure. Grant funds will support the conduction of a feasibility study; the essential first step in the dam removal process, providing the necessary scientific and engineering groundwork for future design, permitting, and construction.

Walloon Lake Association and Conservancy Grant Amount: $5,000

Walloon Lake's environment is experiencing a major increase in skin rashes due to the prevalence of avian schistosomes, the causative agents of swimmer's itch. These parasites, with their complex two-host lifecycle involving aquatic snails and waterfowl, represent a significant environmental and social challenge. Traditional lake-wide control methods have demonstrated limited effectiveness and had detrimental impacts on non-target aquatic organisms. This project aims to shift the paradigm to a localized, scientifically driven prevention strategy. With grant funding support and by implementing a physical barrier (baffle) and a larval removal system ('skimmer') within a designated swim area at Camp Daggett, WLAC seeks to minimize human exposure to swimmer's itch parasites without resorting to chemical interventions that harm the broader aquatic ecosystem. The data gathered can be used to inform other lake communities experiencing the same issue.

Community

Boyne Citizen Grant Amount: $12,500
The Boyne Citizen is successfully working to address the local news desert in the Boyne area by providing unbiased, fact-based reporting on local news, covering City and County Commission meetings, school board meetings, elections, business news, obituaries, and more. Grant funds will help to hire a journalism intern for the summer, with the hope that the position will become a full time reporter position.

Charlevoix Historical Society Grant Amount: $9,000  
Charlevoix's South Pier Lighthouse is owned by the City of Charlevoix and maintained by the CHS, with the U.S. Coast Guard responsible for operating the light. To stabilize and preserve the Lighthouse, it is vital to address the peeling interior paint before further deterioration and potential damage to the metal occurs. Grant funds will support the paint job and removal of condensation producing mill scale.

Crooked Tree Arts Center Grant Amount: $3,000  
CTAC will use grant funding to make necessary improvements and upgrades in its kitchen in response to increased demand for inclusive community culinary programming that provides life skills and fosters intergenerational connection. These upgrades will create a more accessible learning environment and serve a more diverse population, including a growing interest from youth and teen participants.

Friends of the Jordan River Watershed Grant Amount: $7,500  
As a result of the new Don & Eileen Klein Nature Trail opening in EJ, the Friends of the Jordan River Watershed (FJR), whose building sits at the trailhead of the universally accessible trail, has been host to thousands of visitors using the trail who are interested in the building and learning more about the organization and surrounding area. FJR and the EJ Area Chamber of Commerce have teamed up to hire a Community Information Specialist to provide info about FJR, help move the FJR mission forward, and be a valuable resource for community and area info.

Hudson Township Fire and Rescue Grant Amount: $5,000  
HTFR responds to emergencies within Hudson Township and provides mutual aid to Melrose and Chandler Townships in Charlevoix County. Often, the incidents they face involve complex and life-threatening situations where every second counts. To continue meeting these high-stakes demands, they will use grant funds to purchase a drone compatible with those in use by other Charlevoix County agencies for a standardized approach and training within the County.

The Stewardship Network Grant Amount: $5,000  
The Great Lakes Islands Alliance (GLIA) - a fiscally-sponsored project of The Stewardship Network - is a voluntary, collaborative multinational network that brings together island leaders, citizens, and advocates from across the region. Grant funds will support the sixth Great Lakes Islands Summit, September 21-24, 2025, on Beaver Island, which will provide opportunities for connection and learning among Great Lakes Island communities.

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Education

Beaver Island District Library Grant Amount: $6,895  
The BIDL is one of the anchor institutions on Beaver Island, providing wi-fi internet access 24/7, inside and outside of the building, as well as computers for public access, unique programming, and opportunities for patrons to learn new skills. BIDL will use grant funds to upgrade some outdated technology and offer coding and cybersecurity programs for all ages.

Char-Em ISD Grant Amount: $10,000
Head Start and Great Start Readiness are government programs that provide free preschool to children based on financial need and risk factors, but these programs fill quickly, leaving 40+ children in our area without a preschool opportunity each year. Grant funds will provide scholarships for Charlevoix County children to attend preschool at no cost.

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Environment

Little Traverse Conservancy Grant Amount: $10,000
The Farmland Conservation Initiative is protecting precious farmland through conservation easements, all while empowering farmers to continue their vital work. By selling a conservation easement, farmers can unlock the financial potential of their land without losing ownership or the ability to farm it with the peace of mind that the land will remain forever protected in its natural state. Grant funds will support permanent protection of farmland in Charlevoix County.

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Health

Health Department of Northwest Michigan Grant Amount: $5,146  
The HDNW Community Oral Health Services will use grant funding to include Charlevoix County in the Senior Smiles initiative, ensuring access to essential oral health services and resources, including head and neck cancer screenings, following the reduction in funding from the Delta Dental Foundation.

Hospice of Michigan Grant Amount: $7,500  
Hospice of Michigan will use grant funding to support and expand the Jo Elyn Nyman Anchors Programs for Children. This specialized pediatric hospice program supports families medically, emotionally, socially, and spiritually from diagnosis onward, ensuring they have access to a full continuum of pediatric hospice and palliative care.

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Human Services

Bergmann Center Grant Amount: $27,799
The Bergmann Center was severely impacted by the 2025 ice storm, resulting in sewage flooding the building. In the short term, they relocated operations to the resale shop to continue serving clients. Grant funds will replace rotting and non-functional windows throughout the building, which will enhance the building's appearance, ensure proper functionality, and improve energy efficiency for heating and cooling.

Child & Family Services of Northwestern Michigan Grant Amount: $6,000  
Without enough licensed homes available, Charlevoix County children in need of a foster home will be placed elsewhere, causing additional trauma for a child losing all their familiar surroundings, community supports, school, friends, and proximity to relatives. To reduce trauma while keeping children safe, CFS seeks more licensed foster homes within the county. Grant funds will support recruitment and retention efforts to find new and keep existing licensed foster homes available for kids in need.

Women's Resource Center of Northern Michigan Grant Amount: $25,000
WRCNM offers a multitude of programs and services for women, children, and families in Charlevoix County, focusing on survivors of domestic abuse, sexual assault, and gender-based violence. To ensure streamlined and effective operations, as well as the safety and security of staff and survivors, the new facility requires up-to-date technology features that enable adequate security monitoring of the building. Grant funds will support necessary infrastructure including IT cable wiring and security cameras.

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Recreation

Charlevoix Area Community Pool Grant Amount: $15,000
CACP will use grant funds to replace the UV disinfecting light and pool filtration pump to maintain a clean and safe environment for CACP patrons and to prevent an extended shutdown of the pool due to mechanical failure.

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Youth

President Ford Division DBA Michigan Crossroads Council Grant Amount: $2,500  
For over 115 years, Scouting America has stood as the nation's foremost youth program of character development and values-based leadership training. They aim to teach timeless values, strengthen leadership skills, and guide youth into becoming educated, enlightened, and responsible citizens. Grant funds will support scholarships for membership fees, uniforms, and a handbook library for Charlevoix County youth.

beaver island

Beaver Island Historical Society Grant Amount: $5,000
The BIHS is seeking critical funding to restore the vestibule area within the Beaver Head Lighthouse keeper's quarters. This initiative is integral to their overarching mission of safeguarding and interpreting Beaver Island’s cultural legacy and is part of an ongoing restoration project the BIHS and volunteers have dedicated years of in-kind labor and materials to. Grant funds will help complete the restoration work to the tower entrance of the Beaver Head Lighthouse keeper's quarters.

Beaver Island Rural Health Center Grant Amount: $2,430           
BIRHC is in need of updated Heating, Ventilating & Air Conditioning (HVAC) systems to (1) maintain a comfortable indoor environment and (2) assist with removing pollutants and allergens to reduce health risks such as allergies and respiratory issues for patients and staff. Grant funds will support repairing and replacing necessary components of the HVAC system.

Patrons of the Arts in Rural Communities Grant Amount: $6,088           
Beaver Island Music Festival draws hundreds of attendees to the Island each July and boosts the local economy. Due to limited infrastructure, large volumes of recyclables end up in the trash which risks litter near Lake Michigan’s shoreline, increases transport costs to the mainland, and undermines BI’s environmental goals. Grant funds will purchase recycle bins for the festival that align with the capacity and removal practices of the Beaver Island Transfer Station.

St. James Township Grant Amount: $4,000           
The Beaver Island Municipal Marina, owned and operated by St. James Township, serves as a vital gateway for visitors to Beaver Island. With two locations and 100 slips (75% of which are for transient boaters), the marina plays a central role in welcoming thousands of seasonal guests each year. To enhance their hospitality and further support the township’s goals of tourism and sustainability, the marina seeks to provide safe, reliable, and accessible bicycles for visiting boaters. Bicycles allow guests to explore the Island’s unique offerings while reducing dependence on motor vehicles. Grant funds will support the purchase of 20 new, durable bicycles for public use.

Tunes Music Makers Grant Amount: $10,000           
Beaver Island’s geographic isolation creates significant barriers to consistent access to the arts. While TUNES has received tremendous support from the BI Community Center and BI Community School, this dependence on shared spaces limits their ability to grow. Both facilities are multi-use, which means lesson scheduling is inconsistent, storage is temporary, and instruments and supplies are regularly moved in and out of borrowed rooms. Grant funds will establish BI’s first dedicated music education hub, securing a permanent location for the organization and its programming.

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Boyne city

Boyne Arts Collective Grant Amount: $3,400           
Many families in Charlevoix County, particularly in Boyne City, cannot afford enrichment opportunities in the arts. Research shows that arts education improves problem-solving, confidence, and social-emotional skills, yet many schools have limited funding for creative programs. The BAC summer art camps fill this gap by giving children meaningful hands-on experiences in a safe, encouraging environment. Grant funds will support scholarships for the 2026 Boyne Kid’s Art Camps, ensuring that all children, regardless of financial circumstances, can participate.

Boyne Citizen Grant Amount: $18,910           
Relying on a part-time, 74-year-old editor with freelance writers and volunteers has been a frugal way to start the organization; however, the Boyne Citizen seeks funding to expand its capacity for growth in the Boyne area, and other cities in the county in the future. Grant funds will support paying one full-time writer/editor to focus on long-term sustainability.

Eveline Township Grant Amount: $3,125
Eveline Township is committed to providing safe travel routes for all forms of transportation utilized by its residents and guests. A dramatic increase in the number of people walking and cycling along Lake Shore/Ferry Road over the last decade has led to interest in installing dedicated buffered bike/pedestrian lanes on Lake Shore Road from the Boyne City city limit to Whiting Park. Grant funds will support a feasibility study as a first step in the process.

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charlevoix

Bergmann Center Grant Amount: $7,100
Due to flooding caused by the ice storm, operations were temporarily relocated while the main center undergoes a complete renovation. The newly remodeled center will open in November. The Bergmann Center needs new furniture to accommodate an increase in clientele and to ensure the center is safe, welcoming, and equipped to meet the needs of their growing and evolving community. Grant funds will support the purchase of new tables and cubbies for storage.

Charlevoix Circle of Arts Grant Amount: $6,000           
CCA seeks funding support for a community-wide photographic project and exhibit that captures a singular day in the life of the town. Residents, businesses, students, and visitors will be invited to document their experiences on that day through photographs, which will then be collected, curated, and presented as a community display at CCA in September 2026. Bringing community members into the process ensures that the arts are not only something to view, but something to be a part of—accessible, inclusive, and rooted in the community. Grant funds will support the project and exhibit.

Charlevoix Kiwanis Youth Foundation Grant Amount: $2,900           
Young students are facing a national mental health crisis. To help combat these struggles, Kiwanis Club of Charlevoix launched a new social and emotional learning (SEL) Library at Charlevoix Elementary School in September. While they have furnished the library with books, seating, tools, equipment and computer software, the needs are greater than they anticipated. Grant funds will help expand the SEL materials as well as to promote the program more broadly in the community.

Traverse City Dance Project Grant Amount: $2,190           
As the sole professional dance company in Northern Michigan, The Traverse City Dance Project Community Tour brings a distinctive and enriching experience to the Charlevoix community, filling a gap in the regional arts scene and providing unparalleled artistic excellence to the community audience. Grant funds will support this year’s Charlevoix performance, which notably offers free admission and a free youth dance class, making high-quality art and arts education accessible to individuals of all ages.

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East jordan

East Jordan Care & Share Program Grant Amount: $10,000           
The East Jordan Care and Share Pantry wants every person in the East Jordan community to be able to live in dignity and have the needed supplies to do so, even when the affordability of essential personal hygiene items is out of reach. Grant funds will help to provide shampoo, conditioner, soap, laundry detergent, razors, toilet paper, deodorant, and more, for those in need.

Friends of the Jordan River Watershed Grant Amount: $18,000          
As a result of its proximity to the new Don & Eileen Klein Nature Trail, FJR is experiencing a surge in visitors to their iconic building, which sits at the trailhead near downtown East Jordan. FJR and the East Jordan Chamber of Commerce teamed up this summer to successfully pilot a part time staff person to help expand the mission of the FJR and to provide support for visitors and all trail users. Grant funds will help to continue the position through the 2026 calendar year.

Jordan River Arts Council Grant Amount: $11,500          
In early 2025, JRAC completed a comprehensive Capacity Assessment that identified gaps in fundraising capacity, strategic planning, and leadership infrastructure. To help address these challenges, the organization will engage external experts in fund development and strategic planning—skills currently absent within the organization. Grant funds will support strategic planning for cultural leadership, community impact and long-term sustainability.

Raven Hill Discovery Center Grant Amount: $14,000          
After 34 years of creating exhibits that deepen their mission, Raven Hill is entering a new phase of reflection and refinement. In the early years, the focus was on building bold, iconic outdoor structures—like the pyramid, sphinx, Music Garden, Jurassic Park, Treehouse and more. Over time, they've realized that every exhibit—large or small—contributes to the visitor experience and Raven Hill's mission to connect science, history, and art and thus deserves to be clearly identified and interpreted. This project is not just about signs. It’s about equity in access to knowledge and about helping each visitor see the connections that link every part of Raven Hill into a shared journey of discovery. Grant funds will help to create consistent, branded signage for Raven Hill's entire campus, which will also include translations into Spanish and Anishinaabemowin.

Training Wheels Childcare Center Grant Amount: $15,740          
A playground has always been a dream for TWCC, since play is an integral part of early childhood development. That dream was finally made a reality this summer, with just a couple of final additions needed to complete the project and maintain safety. Grant funds will be used to purchase shade structures required by licensing regulations, as well as benches and two sensory panels which will more fully separate the play structures for the younger and older children.

Wagbo Peace Center Grant Amount: $11,250    
WPC stands as a living legacy of the Wagbo sisters, who entrusted their family land to be a place of peace, justice, and sustainable living in harmony with the Earth. Today, the organization manages 212 acres of farmland, forest, and natural habitat just 2 miles outside of East Jordan, offering programs that connect people with land, community, and one another. Grant funds will support a strategic master plan to serve as a roadmap to sustain and expand the mission in alignment with the sisters’ wishes and increase its support of the local community.

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housing

City of East Jordan Grant Amount: $28,500          
The City of EJ, in partnership with Michigan Community Capital (MCC), has invited proposals from qualified architecture firms to provide professional design services for the redevelopment of a City-owned waterfront parcel located at 98 Bridge Street (former boat launch). The goal is to collaboratively design a mixed-use, mixed-income development that activates the site’s prominent waterfront location and contributes to the vitality of downtown East Jordan. Grant funds will support a feasibility study to help determine future housing options for the property.

Housing North Grant Amount: $15,000           
Significant barriers to creating much needed housing in Charlevoix County are outdated zoning laws and a lack of easily interpretable data. Housing North aims to provide a county-wide Housing Zoning Atlas (HZA) that will be a foundation for community planning to identify opportunities and barriers to the creation of needed housing including multi-family and small square footage construction. Grant funds will support the HZA Project in Charlevoix County.

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multiple communities

Beaver Island Irish Heritage Group Grant Amount: $7,250           
The mission of the BIIHG is to present authentic and varied educational activities to recognize, showcase and preserve Beaver Island’s unique Irish Heritage. BIIHG’s signature event is the Emerald Isle Irish Féile—a multi-day festival held the first weekend after Labor Day each year. The Arranmore Pipe Band’s visit to Beaver Island from Arranmore Island, County Donegal, Ireland is essential to the group's mission to preserve the historic link between the two islands. Grant funds will help to cover the cost of lodging and some meals for 20 members of the Arranmore Pipe Band.

Power Book Bags (in schools) Grant Amount: $12,000      
PBB seeks to provide all children in East Jordan and Beaver Island schools with the books, composition books, crayons, finger puppets, and writing booklets that their families may not otherwise be able to afford. Their goal is to promote enriching and imaginative school breaks for all children as well as to increase the literacy materials consistently available in the home. Grant funds will purchase literacy materials to serve 511 children in both BI Community School and EJ Elementary School.

Power Book Bags  (in Health Department) Grant Amount: $12,000         
PBB reaches many underserved families through programs offered by the Charlevoix County Health Department in both Charlevoix and Boyne City. As families attend their already scheduled visit or home visit, they receive books and literacy materials from PBB that help stimulate childhood development, improve literacy in the family, and promote healthy relationships between parents and their children. Grant funds will purchase literacy materials and books for Charlevoix and Boyne City families.

Shoe Club Nation Grant Amount: $15,260          
SCN's mission is to empower middle school students to recognize their value, unlock their potential, and become positive agents of change within their schools and communities through mentorship, curriculum-based learning, and community engagement. Grant funds will support activities and materials for the East Jordan program as well as expansion to Boyne City Middle School this year.

Top of Michigan Trails Council Grant Amount: $5,625
The TOMTC sees the next 12 months as a critical time for the success of trail projects planned for Boyne City and Charlevoix, like the Boyne City to Charlevoix trail, which was recently voted down at the county level, and the "last mile" trails into and out of Charlevoix, connecting to other trails. Grant funds will enable the TOMTC to commit additional staff time and organizational resources to increase community outreach and engagement in these communities with the goal of bringing all of these trails closer to completion.

Arts and Culture

Beaver Island Performing Arts Alliance Grant Amount: $1,500
The BIPAA has an Island tradition to host two free holiday concerts - one for the community and one at the school. The concerts have grown in popularity and now require audience members to reserve seats in advance. Grant funds will help cover the professional musicians' compensation.

East Jordan Historical Society Grant Amount: $1,000
The EJHS seeks funding to cover printing costs for a new book titled "Engine No. 6 and the East Jordan & Southern Railroad". This book preserves the story of the railroad that helped East Jordan grow and prosper from the 1890s to the 1960s. Though Locomotive No. 6 still stands proudly in Sportsman’s Park, much of the railroad’s history exists only in scattered records and memories. This project gathers those materials into one accessible source for residents, students, and visitors, ensuring this important part of local history is not lost. Grant funds will support printing costs for the book.

Great Lakes Chamber Orchestra Grant Amount: $1,000
GLCO is organizing a free community concert in response to an ice storm that upended the lives of Northern Michigan families with the aim to provide comfort and hope to the community, symbolizing peace and resilience through music. Grant funds will help to support the musicians.

St. Mary of the Assumption Parish Grant Amount: $750
St. Mary of the Assumption Parish in Charlevoix had the opportunity to host the Dorothy Gerber Strings Quartet for a community concert in November 2025. Grant funds will support paying musicians for their performance and providing a reception for the public after the concert.

 

Capacity Building

Beaver Island Historical Society Grant Amount: $1,500
The BIHS recently participated in the Certified Fund Raising Management (CFRM) program offered through the Lilly School of Philanthropy. This professional development opportunity was a critical step in building their organizational capacity, especially in the current climate where federal and state funding for humanities programs has been significantly reduced. Grant funds will support the necessary transportation costs incurred for attending 4 multi-day sessions on the mainland throughout 2025.

Beaver Island Rural Health Center Grant Amount: $1,250
The BIRHC is creating its first comprehensive and accurate donor email list, which is expected to significantly enhance the center's capacity to reach more donors, build generosity, boost visibility, and support capacity-building efforts. Grant funds will support staff efforts to create an accurate donor email list.

Patrons of the Arts in Rural Communities Grant Amount: $1,500
Travel was essential to attend and achieve the Indiana University's Certificate in Fundraising Management (CFRM), which has equipped the PARC Executive Director with the knowledge and practical skills to excel in leadership roles within fundraising and philanthropy. Grant funds will support remaining travel costs from attending CFRM courses on the mainland.

Training Wheels Childcare Center Grant Amount: $480
TWCC relies on printed materials for enhancing classroom activities, communicating important details with parents, ensuring proper paperwork and forms are on hand for staff and children, as well as general marketing and promotional materials to keep the center operating. A new printer that can keep up with high demand and be reliable for the long term will be a huge help to the organization. Grant funds will support the printer purchase.

Tunes Music Makers Grant Amount: $1,500
As a new and growing nonprofit organization, TUNES is working diligently to establish a solid financial foundation. One of their primary goals is ensuring accurate financial management and compliance as they scale programs and expand their impact. Grant funding will help TUNES hire a Certified Public Accountant for the 2025 calendar year to provide quarterly financial reports, compliance assistance, 1099 services, tax services and budgeting guidance.

 

Education

East Jordan Public Schools – Elementary Grant Amount: $1,500
East Jordan Elementary School has a district-wide goal to improve literacy proficiency. Strategies to cultivate a love for reading and writing include high-quality instruction, student-led projects, and unique experiences led by staff and other outside organizations. Inspired by 3rd grader, Beatrice, this proposals involves promoting literacy and reading through a local author visit with Lindsay Moore. Grant funds will support the author visit and the purchase of a book of their choice by the author for the library and individual classrooms.

East Jordan Public Schools – Middle School Grant Amount: $1,326
The 6th graders are participating in project-based learning to lead improvements at Camp Willie in collaboration with a local builder, tree expert, and the woods class. Grant funds will help the class install new benches near the archery building and lake, renovate the fire pit area, and construct a boardwalk for safer lake access.

 

Human Services

Community Recovery Alliance Grant Amount: $1,500
The CRA plans to start up a SMART Meeting, with the help of a local therapist, to introduce SMART Recovery. This evidence-based initiative which aims to offer alternative recovery options, empower individuals, and create a cultural shift in addressing addiction for individuals seeking recovery support in Charlevoix County. Grant funds will support the SMART Meeting.

Boyne Eta Nu Charities Grant Amount: $1,500
Boyne Eta Nu Charities flagship program, "Dress For Chill," currently provides new winter outerwear for Boyne City Elementary, Head Start and preschool children. Grant funds will expand the program to 8th grade girls who will be selected based on need by the Boyne City Middle School counseling office.

Health Department of Northwest Michigan Grant Amount: $1,500
A community donation in 2021 started the Unmet Needs fund for the Health Department of Northwest Michigan. It has since been depleted, leaving low-income families and children at risk. Often identified through home visits, the HDNWMI seeks to replenish to help families create safer home environments, prevent child injuries, reduce family stress, and support child development, especially when financial burden is a factor. Grant funds will help purchase items such as baby gates, cribs, cabinet latches, outlet covers, smoke detectors, and similar supplies.

Joppa House Ministries Grant Amount: $1,109
For women in recovery, semi-independent living addresses distinct challenges including trauma histories, caregiving responsibilities, and social stigma. By blending appropriate structure with empowerment through the Alumni House model, Joppa House reduces the risk of relapse while promoting long-term stability and self-sufficiency for women graduating from the Joppa House program. Grant funds will help to purchase household items, providing a safe, welcoming environment as residents transition into the next phase of their recovery journey.

Strangers No Longer Grant Amount: $1,500
In Strangers No Longer's 5 years of outreach in Northern Michigan, both immigrant community members and service-providers regularly highlight the need for trained interpreters including at East Jordan Public Schools, Munson Hospital, the Health Department of Northwest Michigan, and Boyne Food Pantry and Free Clinic. Grant funds will support costs associated with 4 local leaders attending the Hispanic Center of West Michigan’s virtual community interpretation courses.

Boyne city public schools

Middle School E-Sports Program  Grant Amount: $1,400
While many students engage in traditional extracurricular around the arts and athletics, Boyne City Public Schools sees other non-traditional extra programs as vital to reaching all students.  E-sports is a huge movement in our nation to teach collaboration, people skills, and engagement. Currently, 18 middle school students, grades 7 and 8, are signed up to compete in an E-sports league this year. Grant funds will help with start up costs for this new E-sport program this school year.

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Charlevoix public schools

Elementary school

Family Connection and Co-Regulation Kits Grant Amount: $1,500
Family Connection & Co-Regulation Kits provide families with practical tools and activities to strengthen relationships while teaching healthy emotional regulation strategies and support children's wellbeing. These kits include conversation starters, games, bonding activities, calm-down tools, mindfulness exercises, and coping strategies to help children and caregivers navigate emotions together. Providing families with these resources empowers them to build stronger connections, reduce stress, and develop lifelong emotional regulation skills, ultimately contributing to a healthier and happier home environment. Grant funds will help purchase Family Connection and Co-Regulation Kits for Elementary School families.

LEGO Education Coding Express Kits Grant Amount: $2,000
The Charlevoix Elementary STEM initiative will introduce computational thinking and coding skills to kindergarteners using LEGO Education Coding Express Kits. These interactive kits provide age-appropriate, hands-on learning experiences that introduce young students to coding, sequencing, problem-solving, and collaborative learning through play-based activities. The Coding Express Kits are specifically designed for early learners, offering an intuitive, screen-free introduction and engagement in STEM. Impact will be measured through teacher observations, student engagement tracking, and learning outcome assessments, with the ultimate goal of fostering early STEM exposure and potential future career interest. Grants funds will help purchase LEGO Education Coding Express Kits for kindergarteners.

LEGO SPIKE Kits Grant Amount: $5,000
LEGO Education SPIKE kits align elementary education standards with STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, math) learning objectives. Charlevoix currently has an elementary STEM curriculum to provide consistent, hands-on, and real-world learning experiences to a large number of students. Currently, the curriculum can only borrow these kits through the CharEm ISD STEM coordinator who also has to cover over 10 additional districts. Grant funds would be used to secure their own permanent set of kits for consistent curriculum integration.

Social Emotional Learning Library Grant Amount: $2,500
Charlevoix Elementary is looking to develop a dedicated Social Emotional Learning (SEL) library to support their Character Strong curriculum. One of the project’s goals is to improve emotional regulation, academic performance, and social-emotional skills. These texts will address key topics such as empathy, resilience, self-regulation, conflict resolution, and responsible decision-making, serving as valuable resources for both students and educators. Grants funds will provide high-quality SEL texts for Pre-K to 5th grade students.

Steel Tongue Drums Grant Amount: $450
The Elementary School seeks to integrate steel tongue drums into their music, SEL, and mindfulness programs. Students will engage in rhythm-based learning that supports self-regulation, teamwork, and cognitive development. The project aligns with the district’s commitment to supporting and strengthening Rayder PRIDE through creativity, engagement, and teaching the Whole Child – meeting social, emotional, physical, and academic needs while supporting their long-term development and success.  Grants funds would purchase over 20 Steel Tongue Drums - enough for a full classroom set.

Middle high school

Mid-American Model United Nations Conference Grant Amount: $2,375
Model UN is an opportunity for high school students to hone their public speaking, written communication, critical thinking, and research skills while becoming globally aware citizens of the world. The Model UN experience for Charlevoix high school students has a ripple effect on our small community by introducing new perspectives and advancing opportunities for our young students. Grant funds will register five students delegates to represent Charlevoix at the MAMUN conference in March where students from all over the state come together.

Physical Education Class Equipment Grant Amount: $2,504
The Freelap Timing System utilizes electronic chips to provide immediate and accurate feedback on running training sessions. Currently, there is a limited supply of these chips at the school and they are shared with the track program. The small number and shared ownership makes it difficult to get through all students during a PE class and greatly limits their use during the track season. The ability to have instant and immediate feedback helps students set goals, improve their performance, and drive healthy competition. Grant funds will purchase Freelap Timing chips for CMHS PE classes.

Restoration Ecology for Young Students Funding Grant Amount: $2,500
The REYS program is facilitated by the Au Sable Institute and introduces students to the science and practice of ecological restoration. Fourth grade students at CMHS design and implement a restoration project within the watershed using native plants. The program encompasses a total of 10 field and classroom-based lessons and field trips. The school participated in an abbreviated, semester-long version of the program last year; this year, students are participating in the full version of the program for restoration efforts at Boulder Park. Grant funds will close the gap of funding for this program.

SELF Program Guitars Grant Amount: $1,250
Charlevoix Middle High School has a weekly SELF lesson that is for students to unplug and have an outlet. A group of students expressed interest in a guitar group for a creative and therapeutic outlet to help with emotional awareness, self-regulation, and confidence. Research consistently shows that music education supports emotional regulation, enhances mood, and builds community. This investment will create a sustainable program that can continue for multiple school years and reach a wide range of students seeking a positive, inclusive space to learn, express, and grow. Grant funds will purchase classroom guitars, accessories, and maintenance supplies, allowing up to 10 students to participate.

Weight Room Equipment Grant Amount: $3,602
The weight room would like to purchase and introduce belt squat attachments to provide a safer alternative to traditional barbell squats. The equipment includes squat belt attachments with kickstand, plate sets, and spud pillow belts, all aimed at helping students with lower back pain, limited mobility, or those new to lifting. The project's goals include tracking increased squat weight, reducing back strains, ensuring proper form, and gathering student feedback. Grant funds will purchase belt squat attachments to the CMHS weight room.

Beaver Island EMS Grant Amount: $5,083
As the only EMS provider on Beaver Island, dependable communication is vital to BI EMS' ability to respond quickly and effectively to emergencies. Their staff must coordinate with local law enforcement, fire services, and medical transport—both on-island and with mainland partners. Equipment failures or limited access to functioning radios compromise response time, scene coordination, and overall safety for both patients and responders. Grant funds will help to purchase updated radio and pager equipment to ensure reliable emergency communication. 

Beaver Island Rural Health Center Grant Amount: $10,000
The Beaver Island Good Samaritan Fund is a light in the dark for island residents and families facing a tough medical diagnosis, easing the financial burden so they can focus on treatment and healing. The fund has been depleted and the demand for assistance continues to grow because of the high proportion of seniors and retirees of modest means living on the island. Grant funds will support healthcare and transportation needs of individuals and families who are unable to cover some or all their medical expenses. 

Child & Family Service of Northwestern Michigan Grant Amount: $5,000
CFS requests funding for the children and families who are involved in the foster care system or Safe Haven North. When its children thrive, a community thrives. By offering this kind of support to children, foster parents, and parents, the quality of life in Charlevoix Country is enhanced. Grant funds will help to keep foster homes safe and licensed to house children, families get to medical appointments, and will provide support for many other basic and urgent needs that arise throughout the year.

Manna Food Project Grant Amount: $25,000
Manna provides access to nutritious food to individuals experiencing food insecurity. The Mobile Pantry program is designed to eliminate transportation barriers and create access to food for vulnerable neighbors in Charlevoix County. Providing food for people in need helps to free up their money, so they can use it for other household essentials. Grant funds will be used to purchase food to distribute through the mobile pantry program with a priority of fresh produce, dairy and protein.

Manna Food Project Grant Amount: $7,500
Manna is in need of a new refrigerated box truck to collect, rescue, and distribute food to our local community. The new truck will allow Manna to expand programs and services to serve the community effectively and efficiently. The truck will be used to deliver Food 4 Kids backpacks to over 30 area schools and public libraries, and to pick up food and deliver food through their mobile pantry program year-round. Grant funds will support the purchase of the new truck. 

New Day Foundation for Families Grant Amount: $5,000
New Day offers financial and emotional support to Michigan families battling cancer, recognizing the overwhelming financial and emotional burdens that a cancer diagnosis can bring. Grant funds will support Charlevoix County families with direct bill payments, grocery assistance, emotional support, and resource navigation.

Northmen Den Youth Pantries, Inc. Grant Amount: $6,693
The recent federal shutdown and debate over SNAP funding have created instability for households that rely on those benefits, and local schools are seeing more students come to class hungry or without reliable access to food at home. Concord Academy in Boyne City recently contacted Northmen Den because they have no system to discreetly support students experiencing food insecurity. Grant funds will support the launch of a new pantry at Concord Academy, covering shelving, equipment, initial food supply, and volunteer coordination.

Ronald McDonald House of Western Michigan Grant Amount: $11,000
When a child is facing a medical crisis, the entire family is deeply affected on a financial, psychological, emotional, and social level. RMHCWM supports these families by providing a comfortable place for caregivers to sleep, warm meals, snacks, transportation to and from the hospital, toiletries, and activities to keep siblings entertained. RMHC also has a communal space inside the hospital stocked with comfort supplies such as books, slippers, and cozy blankets. Grant funds will support this free program for Charlevoix County families. 

The Salvation Army Grant Amount: $24,000
The Emergency Financial Assistance Program (EFAP) assists local families experiencing a financial crisis with critical needs such as heat, food, electricity, rent, emergency auto repair and other things that threaten a household’s livelihood. Contrary to popular belief, while some applicants are repeat clients, most applicants come from new households. On Friday, January 24th, 9&10 News reported that 70% of US citizens do not have any funds saved for emergencies after paying bills. Due to the lack of contingency funding in most households, The Salvation Army is currently experiencing a higher volume of applicants than it has seen in many years and needs help to continue stabilizing them. Grant funds will help with emergency financial assistance for Charlevoix County households in need. 

Training Wheels Childcare Center Grant Amount: $1,924
Caring for children is the most important work and parents trust Training Wheels to always have their child's best interest at heart. Having essential safety equipment assures parents that we can handle any little emergency in each room and outside will bring much peace of mind to our staff. Grant funds will help to purchase an AED unit and first aid kits.

Versiti Blood Center of Michigan Grant Amount: $1,800
Versit supplies over 85 hospitals in Michigan, including Charlevoix Area Hospital. As the sole blood bank servicing Charlevoix County, Versiti plays a crucial role in sustaining our local healthcare system and saving lives through vital blood donations. The Rita Gillespie memorial blood drive on Beaver Island collects, on average, 72 units, which impacts 216 lives annually. Grant funds will be allocated towards covering flight costs for 12 individuals as well as freight expenses for bringing equipment to and from the Island. 

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ICE STORM

Financial Support

Boyne Arts Collective Grant Amount: $3,052
Grant funds will support lost wages during the ice storm.

Charlevoix Circle of Arts Grant Amount: $1,307
Grant funds will support Charlevoix Circle of Arts staff's lost wages during the ice storm.

Charlevoix Township Grant Amount: $10,000         
Grant funds will reimburse overtime payroll costs incurred by the Chx Township Fire Dept during the ice storm.

Hudson Township Fire and Rescue Grant Amount: $5,000
Grant funds will support Fire Fighter assistance to residents of Hudson Township during the ice storm.

Northwest Michigan Community Action Agency Grant Amount: $20,000         
Grant funds will support the Ice Storm Home Repair Fund.

The Salvation Army Grant Amount: $15,000         
Grant funds will support Emergency Financial Assistance.

Venture North Grant Amount: $20,000         
Grant funds will support relief grants for small business needs resulting from the ice storm.

Women's Resource Center of Northern Michigan Grant Amount: $10,000         
Grant funds will support Women’s Resource Center staff during the ice storm.

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Food / Nutrition / Agriculture

Beaver Island Christian Church & Food Pantry Grant Amount: $1,200
Grant funds will support food access in Charlevoix County during the ice storm.

Community Food Pantry Grant Amount: $1,200
Grant funds will support food access in Charlevoix County during the ice storm.

Crosshatch Center for Art & Ecology Grant Amount: $5,000
Grant funds will support an Ice Storm Emergency Fund for farmers.

East Jordan Care & Share Food Pantry Grant Amount: $1,200
Grant funds will support food access in Charlevoix County during the ice storm.

Good Neighbors Food Pantry of Boyne City Grant Amount: $1,200
Grant funds will support food access in Charlevoix County during the ice storm.

Manna Food Project Grant Amount: $5,000
Grant funds will help utility assistance, food and gas card needs resulting from the ice storm.

Joppa House Ministries Grant Amount: $1,000
Grant funds will help replace perishable refrigerated and/or frozen food lost in the ice storm.

Ziibimijwang Inc Grant Amount: $5,000
Grant funds will help replace plant starts for Garden Kits (Kiitigan) and community farmers due to the ice storm.

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Restoration / Repairs

Bergmann Center Grant Amount: $5,000
Grant funds will help replace bathroom stalls destroyed by ice storm related building damage.

Camp Daggett Grant Amount: $10,000         
Grant funds will support tree and debris clean up from the ice storm.

Charlevoix Children's House Grant Amount: $700  
Grant funds will support tree and debris clean up from the ice storm.

Child & Family Services of Northwestern Michigan Grant Amount: $600  
Grant funds will help with tree removal impeding progress on the outdoor playground due to the ice storm.

Crooked Tree Arts Center Grant Amount: $2,000
Grant funds will help repair a commercial fridge damaged during the ice storm power outage.

Hayes Township Grant Amount: $10,000         
Grant funds will support ice storm debris cleanup.

Little Traverse Conservancy Grant Amount: $17,160         
Grant funds will support trail recovery and restoration work in Charlevoix County.

Melrose Township Grant Amount: $10,000         
Grant funds will support ice storm debris clean-up and recovery.

Northern Michigan Equine Therapy Grant Amount: $8,500
Grant funds will support ice storm clean up support and outdoor bathroom repair.

Northwest Michigan Habitat for Humanity Grant Amount: $7,000
Grant funds will support support ice storm clean up.

Patrons of the Arts in Rural Communities Grant Amount: $5,000
Grant funds will help to replace picnic tables for Beaver Island Music Festival.

Top of Michigan Mountain Bike Association Grant Amount: $3,800
Grant funds will help to remove large trees due to the ice storm and make trails safe again.

Mental Health

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwestern Michigan, Inc. Grant Amount: $9,200
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwest Michigan seeks to expand one-to-one mentoring relationships in Charlevoix County. Mentoring relationships with adults or peers provide guidance, support, and nurturing during a child's developmental years. Grant funds will support four mentor matches from the current waitlist.

Beaver Island Rural Health Center Grant Amount: $5,032          
The BIRHC provides high-quality, cost-effective patient treatment and wellness services, serving as a primary care facility for the BI community. The BIRHC is launching a pilot project to reduce barriers for rural youth accessing behavioral and mental health assistance. Grant funds will prioritize families who may have insufficient income for treatment and will support transportation and travel costs for appointments on the mainland.

Boyne District Library Grant Amount: $1,132                      
The BDL’s Children's Services would like to hold a "Family Battle of the Books" monthly event for 4 months. Families will read and discuss selected books together on important themes for middle school aged youth such as bullying, courage, and online safety. Families will come together for Trivia Nights to encourage discussion and help form strong parent-child communication. Grant funds will support the book purchases.

Char-Em ISD Grant Amount: $9,000                      
Char-Em ISD, with the Health Department and local schools, would like to increase awareness of technology and social media use on youth wellness for students ages 5-11 and their caregivers. The three-pronged initiative will include educational presentations for parents and caregivers, marketing efforts for community engagement, and "Unplugged Bugs" reading kits that contain age-appropriate books educating families and students about devices and screen time/use. Grant funds will support items such as books and totes for the kits.

East Jordan Public Schools Grant Amount: $4,500          
EJPS seeks to create dedicated calming spaces for Elementary students and staff. By bridging the gap between academic learning and personal wellness, students can learn coping skills, self-regulation and resilience throughout the school day. Supporting the emotional health of staff ensures teachers remain energized, compassionate, and committed. Grant funds will support furniture, decor, and sensory tools for the spaces.

Wildfire Dreams Sanctuary  Grant Amount: $4,800                      
WDS provides equine assisted learning programs, horsemanship lessons, and Equine Gestalt Coaching which focuses on all parts of a person to address their emotional, mental, and somatic history through activity engagement. Grant funds will support the "Unbridled Heart to Heart" program to bring teens from Charlevoix middle and high school to participate in after-school equine wellness over a period of 6 weeks.

 

Education

Boyne City Public Schools – E.P.I.C Grant Amount: $1,500          
The BC 6th grade team is leading an initiative focused on motivating students through Effort, Participation, Integrity, and Cooperation (E.P.I.C.) to support academic and behavioral development. The program was created to address the challenges posed by the transition into middle school and to link positive choices to positive outcomes. Grant funds will support monthly reward experiences for the remainder of the school year.

Planned Parenthood of Michigan Grant Amount: $8,000          
PPMI was forced to close the local health center in Petoskey in April 2025, leaving a gap in non-judgmental, empowering and comprehensive sexual and reproductive health care. The proposed project would maintain the longstanding sexual health education programs in Chx Cty, ensure young people are aware of PPMI’s telehealth services, distribute workbooks on mental and sexual health, and host workshops for further conversations. Grant funds will support the materials and time necessary to deliver and facilitate these programs.

Raven Hill Discovery Center Grant Amount: $3,500          
Raven Hill provides a place to enhance hands-on and lifelong learning for all ages by connecting science, history and the arts. The Raven Hill E2 (Elementary Environmental) STEM Program will help teachers meet and fulfill multiple elementary science needs, and practice the skills of Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) through interactions with the environment. Participants will explore their environment through field trips to Raven Hill’s new Living STEM Lab and/or outreach into schools depending on school, teacher and student needs. Grant funds will cover the costs to deliver the program on the site selected.

Tip of the Mitt Watershed Council Grant Amount: $3,500          
The TOWC’s mission is to protect the lakes, streams, wetlands, and groundwater that define Northern Michigan through programs that combine science, education, and community engagement to make a measurable difference. One such program, Students Experience Lake Charlevoix (SELC), transforms the Beaver Islander Ferry into a floating classroom. Middle school students rotate through science stations on topics like water chemistry, invasive species, and septic pollution. Grant funds will help support staff time, educational materials, and overall program delivery, ensuring SELC remains accessible to all local schools at no cost to participants.

Tunes Music Makers Grant Amount: $2,725   
TUNES Music Makers is the only organization on Beaver Island providing structured, ongoing music opportunities for young people and community members through lessons, classes, and workshops that are often unavailable in rural communities. The Rock Band program combines teamwork, mentorship, music education, and collaboration with weekly jam sessions. A soft launch of this program last spring demonstrated the growth and confidence of the students during a performance to over 200 people. Grant funds will support the instructional time and rental space required to showcase the Rock Band.

 

Human Services

Child & Family Services of Northwestern Michigan Grant Amount: $5,000                      
Child and Family Services supports licensed foster homes and youth in foster care in Charlevoix County. Placement Support Specialists help youth, children, and foster families in new placements by providing needs, resolving issues, and accessing services to help prevent the trauma of re-placement. Family Support Workers help provide access to specialized services by driving young clients to counseling or additional appointments. Grant funds will support Charlevoix County Placement Support Specialists and Family Support Workers.

Child Abuse Prevention & Education Council Grant Amount: $3,500          
The Annual CAPE conference brings in nationally recognized speakers to provide information and education to area families, educators, nurses, childcare providers, and social workers working with young people and their caregivers. The 2026 conference will help attendees learn how to better understand and engage with youth, provide tools to help foster positive relationships among youth, caregivers, and community members, and host a communication skills workshop. Grant funds will support overall conference costs.

Hospice of Michigan Grant Amount: $2,000                      
Camp Good Grief is a free, one-day bereavement camp for youth ages 8–17 who have experienced the death of a loved one. Held at Camp Lake Louise in Boyne Falls, MI, the camp provides a safe, structured environment where children can process grief, connect with peers experiencing similar losses, and develop coping strategies. Campers engage in therapeutic and recreational activities—including art, music therapy, memory bear creation, ziplining, fishing, and swimming—each paired with grief-focused discussions designed to foster emotional resilience. Grant funds will ensure the program remains free and accessible to Charlevoix County families.

Northern Michigan Equine Therapy Grant Amount: $3,750                      
NMET seeks to create a high-quality storytelling video to raise awareness and improve access to their equine-assisted therapy programs. The updated media will be used to increase awareness, engagement, and support for NMET, so they may serve more individuals and strengthen the community through improved physical, mental and emotional well-being. Grants funds will support professional video production services.

Ronald McDonald House of Western Michigan Grant Amount: $11,000                    
When a child is facing a medical crisis, the entire family is deeply affected on a financial, psychological, emotional, and social level. RMHCWM provides a comfortable place for caregivers to sleep after a long day at the hospital. Along with a clean bed, families are provided warm meals, snacks, transportation to and from the hospital, toiletries, and activities to keep siblings entertained. RMHCWM also offers a communal space inside the hospital stocked with comfort supplies such as books, slippers, and cozy blankets. Grant funds will support this program for Charlevoix County families free of charge.

 

Recreation

Boyne City Public Schools – Rambler Power Grant Amount: $1,501                      
BCPS offers Rambler Power, a PE class to provide strength, fitness, conditioning, and mobility training opportunities for students throughout the school day.  The class introduces and exposes students to multiple fitness training modalities for both physical and athletic development, while also practicing and teaching healthy life skills and habits. Grant funds will support healthy pre/post workout snacks for the Rambler Fuel Station.

Beaver Island Historical Society Grant Amount: $3,000          
The BIHS offers Kids Camp to youth ages 4-13 on the Island each July. Kids Camp incorporates cultural themes and Island history based on enriching activities in science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics to create a positive week of learning for youth. The program also provides unparalleled leadership development for ten camp counselors. Grants funds would support staff and supplies needed for Kids Camp.

Boyne Area Gymnastics Grant Amount: $10,225                    
Boyne Area Gymnastics is committed to providing safe, high-quality training opportunities for young athletes across Charlevoix County through gymnastics and cheer. Two of their most heavily utilized pieces of equipment, the uneven parallel bars and a balance beam, have reached a stage where they no longer meet the standard of safety, stability, and competitive functionality required for developing athletes. Grant funds will help close the funding gap and secure the equipment necessary for gymnasts.

Camp Daggett Grant Amount: $1,500                                  
In addition to increases in the cost of living including housing, fuel, food and basic life necessities, families are also facing shortages in affordable and quality childcare options. In 2024, Camp Daggett launched Day Camp as an affordable childcare option and has had waitlists for each week available for the last two years. Licensing requires Day Campers to spend 51% of their time outside. Grant funds will help purchase an outdoor pavilion to help meet this requirement while keeping Campers comfortable from sunlight or rain.

Girl Scouts of Michigan Shore to Shore Grant Amount: $2,000                      
GSMISTS seeks to recruit and train additional volunteers and troop leaders in Charlevoix County to increase both capacity and access. By expanding access, GSMISTS will help more girls build confidence, find belonging, and develop lifelong skills that support their mental health, education, and leadership potential. Grant funds will support local marketing and outreach efforts, recruitment, and tuition support in Charlevoix County.

Arts

Beaver Island Cultural Arts Association Grant Amount: $1,500

Live theater on Beaver Island has generally been the purview of community productions. While amateur productions serve important communal purposes, the Beaver Island Performing Arts Alliance aims to bring professional performers to the Island for the enjoyment and enrichment of the entire community. Mounting a play with professional direction and actors reflects the organization's commitment to elevate, extend, and diversify the performing arts on Beaver Island to meet the cultural needs and interests of an ever widening audience of residents and visitors. Grant funds will support production of the play and costs associated with bringing performers to the Island.

Charlevoix Circle of Arts Grant Amount: $1,635

Charlevoix Circle of Arts (CCA) is requesting funding to support core arts programming, which provides children and adults in Charlevoix and surrounding communities with opportunities for expression, connection and creating through a variety of arts experiences, including fine art exhibits, art workshops, dance classes, youth programs, artist lectures, and other events. From 2019-2023, CCA experienced significant growth in the number of people using the organization’s exhibits, educational programs, workshops, and classes. Programs are effective and highly rated, with 98% of participants developing or improving a skill or technique as a result of CCA programming. Feedback from constituents consistently requests new and continued program offerings. Grant support will help CCA in developing new programs and continuing to provide existing, high-quality programs.

Charlevoix Public Schools Grant Amount: $3,000

As part of the Advanced Placement United States Government & Politics course curriculum, students must engage in an activity that benefits the community in which they live. This year's class has decided to place interactive murals along the corridor/alleyway on the backside of the Berkshire Hathaway building, the Van Pelt 1909 building, and the Peppers Boutique building in downtown Charlevoix. The artists are former Charlevoix High School students, Edith Pair and Paige Pemble, and current Charlevoix Middle High School Fine Arts students. Grant funds will be used to purchase materials for the artists to create their murals. Murals will be created on detachable materials and affixed to the buildings so that they can be moved, adjusted, or removed as needed.

Crooked Tree Arts Center Grant Amount: $2,500

This summer, Crooked Tree Arts Center is premiering the locally developed art and culture exhibition called Michigan: An American Portrait. Curated by CTAC Visual Arts Director, Liz Erlewine, Michigan: An American Portrait is a dynamic, creative, and multifaceted cultural exhibition exploring the history, identity, environment, and "placehood" of the state of Michigan. The exhibition is inspired by the PBS documentary film of the same name and connects viewers to the film's themes through compelling original works of art, didactic text, and clips from the film. A series of public programs deepens the experience for youth and adults throughout Northern Michigan. As a community center based in the arts, CTAC designed this summer programming for year-round and seasonal residents, as well as visitors. Grant funds will support the exhibition which will take the state-wide thematic content from the PBS film and incorporate regionally specific connections through the work of local artists, businesses, and community-focused programming.

Northwest Michigan Arts and Culture Network Grant Amount: $1,000

Northwest Michigan Arts & Culture Network is trying to build capacity specifically in Charlevoix County for the Network’s backbone services, technology and programming benefitting local artists/culture bearers, arts and cultural organizations, creative businesses, and related community projects. While the Network serves and connects regionally, the creative work and those they serve are at the local level. A key strategic goal is for the organization to extend their branches and deepen their roots in Charlevoix County. Grant funding will help bring focused efforts in marketing, relationship building, and convening of local artists, arts organizations, culture bearers, and community members in Charlevoix County.

Raven Hill Discovery Center Grant Amount: $5,000

Raven Hill Discovery Center (RHDC) actively connects history, art, & science in Charlevoix County for everyone. Deer Creek runs under Fuller Rd and through the north end of Raven Hill’s property. Conservation Resource Alliance (CRA) is working on a large-scale project, which includes restoring the natural river flow of Deer Creek and the Jordan River at certain road crossings. The project will improve Deer Creek by replacing the current aging infrastructure with a timber bridge, restoring the creek to its original state. Raven Hill is proud to collaborate with CRA on this work, but it also means that RHDC may be less easily accessible during the busy summer season while the CRA construction is taking place. To make lemonade out of lemons, RHDC plans to staff a pop-up museum in a tent at the corner of Fuller, Pearsall, and BC/EJ Roads, just down the hill from RHDC's main campus. This will allow patrons the choice of making a longer detour on a seasonal road to access RHDC's main campus, or to enjoy the more easily accessible pop-up museum on the main road. Grant funds will be used to help RHDC purchase large inflatable tents to house the pop-up museum.

Traverse City Dance Project Grant Amount: $2,400

The mission of the Traverse City Dance Project (TCDP) is to produce and present professional dance in Northern Michigan, promoting collaboration among artists and actively engaging with the community, expanding audience reach and ensuring inclusivity for all, and recognizing the transformative power of the arts to unite, empower, and inspire communities. In Charlevoix County, they are impacting the local arts, music, and cultural scene by returning to downtown Charlevoix for the second year this summer, with a live dance performance in East Park, as part of their 2024 Community Tour. Grant funds will support the Charlevoix show.

Wagbo Peace Center Grant Amount: $8,000

To fulfill its mission, Wagbo Farm offers a variety of educational programs related to sustainable agriculture, homesteading, the environment, creative expression, historically relevant cultural practices, community resilience, peace and justice and the intersections of all of these. Wagbo is seeking to transform the old workshop building on site from a cold storage area into an arts and culture classroom space that can be used year-round. Grant funds will help to raise the building, and to repair the foundation and lower portion of the exterior walls. This work, coupled with the work they are already undertaking to address drainage issues, install a heating system, and put in windows for more natural light, will help make this space suitable for year-round community fiber arts workshops.

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History / Culture

Beaver Island District Library Grant Amount: $2,000

As a part of their mission, the Beaver Island District Library addresses the cultural, informational, educational, recreational, and technological needs of the community. They are planning cultural programming highlighting Indigenous peoples (Native Americans and other Indigenous peoples from Asia, Hawaii, and Pacific Islands), including crafts like pottery, basketry, beadwork, art, music and dance, writing and storytelling, and cultural foods. Indigenous families reside on the island and attend school, but as a small minority, not much is offered for them to learn about their culture outside of the family unit. It is important that non-Natives also learn about the culture of those who resided in North America prior to the arrival of the Europeans. Grant funds will help bring presenters to the Island and will support program supply costs.

Beaver Island Historical Society Grant Amount: $2,000

The Beaver Island Historical Society (BIHS) will bring unique arts & culture programming opportunities to the Beaver Island Community in 2024. From kids programming about fossils and paleontology to storytelling and music about the Great Lakes told through historic working songs called sea shanties, to stories of female lighthouse keepers, and the MSU Irish Dance Group performances; grant funds will support each program which will highlight the unique history and culture of Beaver Island and the Great Lakes.

Charlevoix Historical Society Grant Amount: $3,250

In 2006 the Charlevoix Historical Society (CHS) was offered the Charlevoix Courier's extensive archive of photos, slides, negatives, and proof sheets, which is now estimated to be comprised of 45,000 items that date from the 1940s to 2007, including a collection from long-time Courier photographer Fran Martin (1909-1989). In 2021, CHS began working to digitize, catalog, and archive these historic materials. The goal is for these to be accessible and searchable by anyone who wishes to do so, at the museum under supervision of museum staff, and eventually online. Grant funds will help staff to progress with digitizing materials from the Charlevoix Courier's collection.

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Music

City of Boyne City Grant Amount: $750

The Boyne City Farmers Market is looking to expand their Wednesday Market Music series this summer and to increase the pay for musicians. Last season they hosted music during eight Wednesday markets and noticed a decrease in patron traffic on market days without music. They partner with Blissfest Music Organization to showcase local musicians from around the region, which provides a more enriching experience to farmers market patrons while providing an avenue for artists to gain exposure and a wage. The pay increase will help to build a wider range of artists and bring in new musicians to the series. Music at the market creates an infectious energy that draws people in and keeps patrons at the market. Grant funds will help pay for musicians to perform during the summer music series at the BC Farmers Market.

City of East Jordan Grant Amount: $9,500

The City of East Jordan's Southern Bandshell was constructed in 2004 and has hosted an increasing number of concerts, festivals and ceremonies since its inception. The Music in the Park series takes place each Friday in June and July, welcoming concerts to the Memorial Park/downtown area. In the past, the city has provided a single loudspeaker and microphone for events and has collaborated with Jordan River Arts Council to provide a sound system for bands. Both of these have been helpful but are underpowered for the size of Memorial Park, are becoming outdated, and are lacking in professional quality. Grant funds will help the City to purchase an appropriate PA system as well as a sound system to attract more and better bands and entertainment to downtown East Jordan.

Great Lakes Center for the Arts Grant Amount: $4,000
The Great Lakes Center for the Arts' Dorothy Gerber Strings Program (DGSP) provides string music instruction to students in our region, about half of whom reside and take classes in Charlevoix County. Grant funds will help to support Charlevoix County students learning music through the DGSP, specifically by providing instrument repairs and replacements, new sheet music, and operational support for programming in Charlevoix County.

Tunes Music Makers Grant Amount: $2,000

The mission of Tunes Music Makers is to cultivate a vibrant and inclusive musical community on Beaver Island, providing access to quality music education, fostering creativity, and promoting social cohesion. They provide music instruction, in person and virtually, as well as instrument lending, to the residents of Beaver Island. Two local instructors teach piano and acoustic, electric, and bass guitar in person. There are also virtual lessons for vocal, mandolin, and ukulele, and a monthly, virtual fiddle lesson with the Donegal Fiddlers group from Ireland. It has been a few years since any music program was offered for the youth of Beaver Island and there has never been one that was also open to adults, nor one that has offered such a wide variety of instruments and genres. The lessons are individual and private and each student is able to learn at their own pace. There has been more interest in the program than they initially projected, so grant funds will help to provide more students interested in music education the opportunity to participate without financial barriers.

Arts & Music

Crooked Tree Arts Center Grant Amount: $3,000

Each week, CTAC welcomes a wide range of community members, from preschoolers to senior citizens, including those with physical disabilities. CTAC is working to upgrade and improve our studio furniture and space to create an accessible and welcoming learning environment that meets the needs of our diverse community. Grant funds will support the purchase of accessible tables and chairs to accommodate learners of different abilities, sizes, and physical needs.

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Community

Challenge Mountain of Walloon Hills, Inc Grant Amount: $5,000

Challenge Mountain provides adaptive biking programs for special needs students in the Char-Em ISD at various schools and paved biking trails throughout Emmet and Charlevoix counties. Currently, staff transport bikes using either an open trailer or a box truck with a very old and slow lift. Both of these options involve tremendous physical effort for staff and volunteers to load and unload the large, heavy adaptive bikes. Grant funds will support purchasing an enclosed trailer, which is a more efficient option for transporting and storing adaptive bikes because it will keep bikes clean during transport, can load more bikes to meet more participants' adaptive biking needs, and bikes can be stored in the trailer out of the weather, extending their longevity.

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Education

Char-Em ISD Grant Amount: $10,000

Many local families find themselves forced to choose between providing their child a preschool experience or meeting basic living needs. Paying for vital things like housing, transportation & food often take precedence over preschool tuition. In addition, COVID has prevented many children from attending preschool over the last couple of years, leading to behavioral & socialization issues. Two government programs (Head Start and the Great Start Readiness Program) provide free preschool to children based on financial need & risk factors. These federal & state funded programs fill to capacity quickly, leaving 40+ children in our area waiting for a preschool opportunity each year. The Great Start Preschool Scholarship Project (GSPSP) fills the State & Federal preschool funding gap in Charlevoix and Emmet Counties. Upon capacity of government funded preschool programs, GSPSP will use grant funds to provide preschool tuition for eligible children ages 3-5 in Charlevoix County.

Miigwech, Inc Grant Amount: $2,500

Currently, Michigan is one of three states without dyslexia laws. However, legislative bills in the State House and Senate are expected to pass with bipartisan support in Fall 2024, requiring screening, intervention, and professional development for teachers to meet the needs of dyslexic students. Miigwech's mission is to promote a positive environment that encourages growth, critical thinking skills, reasoning, global conscience, respect for diversity, and education that is seated in the Anishinaabe Seven Grandfather Teachings. They are also a stakeholder in the pending Dyslexia Legislation. Grant funds will support delivery & facilitation of community workshops to raise awareness about dyslexia at 7 organizations serving Charlevoix County.

North Central Michigan College Foundation Grant Amount: $25,000

NCMC's Career And Technical Education Enhancement (CATEE) Project is more than a vision; it's a $21 million investment to revolutionize education in healthcare, manufacturing, and skilled trades - three pivotal sectors shaping our regional, state, and national economies. This grant will focus on and support the workforce in technology, trades, and manufacturing, with the bulk of available jobs in these fields in Charlevoix County. Grant funds will help with building renovations to create more efficient and effective learning environments to train future healthcare, technology, and manufacturing workers.

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Environment

Little Traverse Conservancy Grant Amount: $7,415

Stewardship can be defined very simply as wise care of the land, and if wisdom requires considering all the facts gained from experience, inherent then in stewardship, is the need to have deep knowledge of the lands that are being cared for because we can only conserve what we know. Thus, the critical need for LTC at this time of caring for over 26,000 acres of land is a need for more knowledge and information about the lands they manage. So, they launched the Ecological Conditions and Response (ECAR) program in 2023. Through a multi-year process with expert staff and partners, and with grant funds, LTC will identify, record, and develop a plan for the unique and special natural features they discover on their lands.

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Health

Beaver Island Rural Health Center Grant Amount: $5,662

While there are a variety of options for caring for aging people, from nursing homes to assisted living facilities, one popular option is in-home care. This option is interesting to Island residents, since there are neither nursing homes nor assisted living facilities located on the Island. There also aren't any in-home care service providers on the Island, currently, but the BIRHC has a plan. Grant funds will support the initiative to educate and train home health care aides who will live and work on Beaver Island to help address the growing need for in-home care.

McLaren Northern Michigan Foundation Grant Amount: $3,858

The national nursing shortage experienced throughout the country has become a disruptive and significant issue at McLaren Northern Michigan (MNM) as well. Starting a Nurse Intern Program is one of multiple strategies being implemented to increase their nursing staff. It addresses the immediate need for additional bedside support for current nurses while simultaneously preparing student nurses to enter the workforce upon completing their degrees. Grant funds will support Charlevoix County nursing students who want to enroll in the Nurse Intern Program.

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Housing

Housing North Grant Amount: $50,000

A key ingredient missing in most rural communities is community development staff that can work with developers to coordinate partners, incentives, funding, and development opportunities. Communities themselves recognize this gap as well and have been working with Housing North to find solutions. The Housing Ready Program, piloted in Charlevoix and Emmet Counties, is a step towards this goal. A "housing ready" community is one in which there are opportunities for development that can create a variety of options for all people in the community. With grant funding support, the Housing Ready Program Coordinator will be helping the county fill this gap by guiding projects into the pipeline that address this need.

Northern Homes Community Development Corporation Grant Amount: $65,000

Northern Homes CDC is working to build a 6-unit apartment community in Charlevoix. This project is a "missing middle" project; meaning that all units will be income and rent restricted to 120% of the area median income (AMI). The apartments are one-story townhouse style apartments. There will be two buildings with 3 units in each building. Each unit will have 2 bedrooms and two full bathrooms. The main bathroom will be barrier free for handicap accessibility and there will be a zero-step entry at the back door. The floorplan works well for families, senior citizens, people with disabilities, and roommates. Grant funds will help support this project, which will bring more affordable housing to our community

Northern Homes Community Development Corporation Grant Amount: $7,000

It's time for Northern Homes CDC to create the next iteration of their organization's strategic plan. A lot has changed since the last strategic plan was created, in 2020. Northern Homes has also grown and become more complex. They have started new programs and undertaken new projects and partnerships. For this strategic plan, they have chosen to engage two consultants with extensive background and experience in the affordable housing field in Michigan. Grant funds will support the organization's development of a 2024-2028 strategic plan.

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Human Services

Boyne Eta Nu Charities Grant Amount: $5,000

Many local families struggle to provide all essential needs for their family. Boyne Eta Nu Charities' "Dress For Chill" (DFC) program provides warm outerwear for pre-school and elementary school children in the Boyne City Public Schools. Grant funds will help to purchase winter jackets, snow pants, boots, hats and gloves for Boyne City children.

Child and Family Services of Northwestern Michigan Grant Amount: $5,000

Kids grow best in families. Foster care can be a temporary safe haven for children whose parents are unable, for a variety of reasons, to care for them. Charlevoix County children in need of a foster home may have to be placed in a different county if there aren’t foster families available in Charlevoix County. This causes additional trauma for a child, as they may lose all their familiar surroundings and community supports, including their school, friends and proximity to relatives. To reduce trauma while keeping children safe, CFS needs more licensed foster homes within the county. Grant funds will support marketing and recruitment efforts in Charlevoix County.

Good Samaritan Family Services Grant Amount: $7,000

Good Samaritan Family Services is working to increase awareness and support of the organization. First, they need new signage at both the Family Center and the Food Pantry. The current signs are old, wooden, and have fallen into disrepair, making them difficult to read. New signs will improve visibility and make it easier for people to find the services they need. Second, they plan to host an open house event to showcase the organization's resources and services, while also working to recruit new donors and volunteers. Success in both of these areas will allow the organization to serve more people in need.

Kiersten's Ride Grant Amount: $7,500

Kiersten’s Ride is dedicated to bringing help, hope, and healing through suicide prevention programs in Northern Lower Michigan. It is important to allow for and create learning opportunities here in Northern Michigan to reduce geographical and financial barriers for life saving education. By providing professional caregivers with training opportunities, our most vulnerable community members will benefit. Grant funds will support conference expenses with a focus on speaker cost, continued education, and venue.

Northern Michigan Equine Therapy Grant Amount: $8,000

The Farm Hand position at Northern MI Equine Therapy (NMET) provides daily care for therapy horses, (including feeding, grooming, cleaning stalls, and maintaining health,) maintains facilities and equipment, and assists during therapy sessions as needed. Without the Farm Hand's dedication and expertise, NMET's ability to deliver life-changing equine therapy services would be significantly compromised, negatively impacting the number of clients they could serve, many of whom depend on these programs for improved mobility, reduced anxiety, and enhanced social interactions. By growing direct therapy services, NMET will eventually be able to increase earned revenue with the long-term goal of sustaining this position. Until that goal can be achieved, grant funds will support the Farm Hand position, which will help the organization to build capacity for the future while continuing to meet needs in Charlevoix County today.

PoWer! Book Bags Grant Amount: $5,000

During early childhood, especially ages 0-5, children need constant exposure to love, language, and literacy. Through interactions with parents & caregivers, children’s brains become wired for all future endeavors. Providing children and families with tools at home to promote interactions in the first five years of life improves the outcomes for all children. While adding just one book into a home increases the possibility for a child to do better, feeding children a steady diet of books, writing materials, & language play opportunities invites children to learn, grow, and thrive. There is a strong correlation between the number of books in the home and children's life success academically, socially, emotionally, and as future contributing members of society. Grant funds will help to purchase books and language materials for children in programs like the Maternal Infant Health Program, the Women, Infant, and Children’s Supplemental Nutrition Program (WIC) & at the Immunization Clinics through the Health Department of NW MI.

Women's Resource Center of Northern Michigan Grant Amount: $35,000

In 2023, the Women's Resource Center of Northern Michigan (WRCNM) launched the Empowering Bright Futures campaign to secure funds for a new, renovated facility in Emmet County. A building purchase was approved by the Board of Directors in 2022 following an assessment of current facilities and projected needs and an exhaustive search for properties to rent or purchase. The site requires extensive renovations to meet building codes, and to best meet the needs of WRCNM's clients and programs. The total project cost is $5M and includes all interior components, security features, technology, privacy measures, children's outdoor play area, and all mechanical, plumbing, and electrical needs. The building exterior and footprint will remain, but the interior will be completely rebuilt to meet codes, create energy efficiency, and enhance WRCNM programs through the customized design, which includes thoughtful safety, privacy, and trauma reduction features for all WRCNM clients and families. Grant funds will specifically support the office of one Advocate serving Charlevoix and Emmet Counties at the new facility, approximately 1.02% of the total building square footage.

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Recreation

Charlevoix Area Community Pool Grant Amount: $10,000

The Charlevoix Area Community Pool is now 26 years old. As the pool ages, so do the mechanical systems that control functions like pH, temperature, chlorine levels, alkalinity, volume, pump pressure, and much more. These and other important mechanical controllers are what ensures the safety and functionality of the pool for the public. The Charlevoix Pool has a plan to replace the aging mechanical equipment with new controllers that can also be accessed remotely by staff so they can be notified of and even fix issues remotely, day or night, as needed. Grant funds will help to purchase the new controller system.

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Youth

Charlevoix Kiwanis Youth Foundation Grant Amount: $5,000

The Dolly Parton Imagination Library (DPIL) was previously championed by Char-Em United Way, but was discontinued. During the pandemic, children experienced learning loss in reading and literacy. The Charlevoix Kiwanis Youth Foundation is working to re-establish the DPIL in Charlevoix County, which sends age-appropriate books to children (one per month) from birth to age 5, at no cost to the family. Grant funds will support the costs to bring the DPIL back for Charlevoix County families and children.

President Ford Division DBA Michigan Crossroads Council Grant Amount: $2,500

The Michigan Crossroads Council, Boy Scouts of America, has been a steady partner for families facing the emotional and mental toll that has resulted from their children spending more time indoors, more time in front of screens, and less time spent with their peers. The organization's goal is to teach timeless values, strengthen leadership skills, and guide youth into becoming educated, enlightened, and responsible citizens. To help ensure that all youth can join the Scouting program and participate in the essential experiences of summer camp, a special assistance fund will be created with grant funds, to support families in the area who are unable to afford the full cost of Scouting.

Raven Hill Discovery Center Grant Amount: $10,000

Raven Hill Discovery Center is where children and adults link science, history, & the arts through hands-on activities and explorations throughout its museum and outdoor exhibits. With years of success in offering programming for all ages, Raven Hill is taking steps toward transitioning from a primarily founder-led organization to one that will require a refined staffing model, engaged board of directors, and strategic fund development efforts to effectively support the Co-Founder and current CEO’s transition in five years. Grant funds will support staff and board members in implementing strategies that will establish RHDC as a high-functioning non-profit organization that will continue to serve our community for years to come.

Antrim Conservation District, DBA CAKE CISMA Award: $8,460

Invasive species present an enormous threat to Michigan’s biodiversity - second only to outright habitat destruction. CAKE CISMA, through the Antrim Conservation District, plans to use grant funds to jump-start a Native Plant Restoration Program to complement their existing Invasive Species Management Program. CAKE will promote revegetation with native plants as a strategy to improve the long-term effectiveness of invasive plant control efforts while also supporting pollinators/wildlife with ecologically beneficial species. Most invasive plant seeds love disturbed bare ground. Removal of invasive plants causes soil disturbance, so without native revegetation, the return of invasives is likely. During its inaugural year, the Native Plant Restoration Program will function as a pilot initiative accessible to residents, conservation groups, and schools within Charlevoix and Antrim Counties. The program will include a revegetation guide for landowners, a seed library, and staff time for additional events and educational efforts in Charlevoix County.

Camp Daggett Award: $8,000

There are areas of the Camp Daggett campus where the invasive species, autumn olive, is overtaking the vegetation and needs to be removed. The plant is difficult to eradicate, but Camp Daggett will partner with Habitat Landscaping to accomplish the task. Once the autumn olive is gone, they will install native, sustainable landscaping, including a diverse selection of native woody and perennial species. The new biodiversity will provide habitat for pollinators and birds as well as an education opportunity for campers. The renovated gardens will be used by the summer camp “nature” area director for camper curriculum as well as year-round as part of an upcoming campus-wide STEAM curriculum. Grant funds will support removal of invasive species and installation of sustainable, native landscaping.

Little Traverse Conservancy Award: $7,000

The Elizabeth B Hoffman Nature Preserve, a Little Traverse Conservancy (LTC) preserve in Charlevoix, currently has over 50 acres of agricultural land leased to a local farmer. The long-term plan for this preserve is to gradually transition these fields into native plant meadows that will provide habitat and beneficial relationships for wildlife and people. This fall, LTC plans to start this transition by planting native grasses in an 11.4 acre field after this year’s corn harvest. Many of Michigan’s grassland birds are declining due to a lack of habitat. This field will become a source of food and shelter for native insects and birds in the coming years. Grant funds will help start the work, by providing support for seeds and planting efforts.

St. James Township Award: $7,000

To accomplish their natural resources/recreation goals, St. James Township is working to protect, educate, and improve access at the Gull Harbor Natural Area (GHNA) on Beaver Island. High water, winds, and ice during the winter of 2021/2022 destroyed the interpretive signs and damaged the benches located along one of the hiking trails. With grant funds, they will replace the signage explaining the GHNA story, how to safely access the area, and to help people understand and enjoy the unique ecosystems on this property. Additionally, they will relocate the trail head to higher ground, protecting the two trail heads from motor vehicle traffic to allow better access.

Tara's Meadow Education & Retreat Center Award: $3,500

Tara’s Meadow Education & Retreat Center (TM) engages communities who are environmentally concerned, and creates educational opportunities for those with less environmental knowledge. This year Tara’s Meadow is focusing on local foods and ecological resilience on Beaver Island. With grant funds, they plan to bring Islanders together with expert presenters on soil regeneration, organic waste management, and local foods production. They will also spotlight ecological resilience by hosting “Team Monarch” during the BI Sustainability Week this June. They will bring in a Monarch Butterfly expert from Walloon Lake who will lead the planting of native forbs and collection of Monarch butterfly eggs and caterpillars to protect, raise, and release as butterflies in Charlevoix County.

Tip of the Mitt Watershed Council Award: $25,000

Tip of the Mitt Watershed Council is planning the removal of Stover Creek dam, located near the mouth of the stream as it meets Lake Charlevoix near Ferry Avenue in Charlevoix. The dam is an old concrete structure that impounds a significant quantity of sediment, serves as a barrier to the migration of fish and other aquatic organisms, affects hydraulics, and may affect stream temperatures. Debris frequently builds up on the dam’s upstream face, causing flooding during high flows. If the dam fails and sediment is released, it will smother the benthic organisms and fish downstream and could lead to algal blooms at the mouth. Grant funds will help with removing the dam, restoring the stream channel profile, and creating instream habitat, such as step-pool-riffles and woody structure, along with streambank restoration, which will greatly benefit the overall connection between the stream and lake. Restoring the stream's hydrology will provide aquatic organism passage between the lake and stream, discharge cooler and better oxygenated water to the lake, and return normal sediment transport processes. The burden of flooding on adjoining properties will diminish and nearby infrastructure will be better protected as a result.

Walloon Lake Association and Conservancy Award: $5,000

The Walloon Lake Association and Conservancy (WLAC) is working to acquire a truck, essential for advancing their mission and vision of conserving Walloon Lake and its surrounding natural habitats. Staff currently rely on personal vehicles to maintain over 2,300 acres of land in numerous locations around Walloon Lake. This causes inefficiencies in their ability to maintain preserves, as not everyone's vehicle is equipped to transport equipment or handle uneven terrain, and comes at a cost to the organization in the form of mileage reimbursements. Using personal vehicles for preserve maintenance has confused preserve users when they see unbranded vehicles in places they shouldn't be e.g. active-use trails, field areas, etc. Grant funds will help purchase an organizational vehicle, which will greatly improve WLAC's efficiency and ability to complete necessary initiatives in environmental restoration and preservation.

Conservation Resource Alliance Awarded $75,000 over three years, in 2022

CRA will use grant funding to replace three road crossings - Jordan River Road, East and West over the Jordan River, and Fuller Road over Deer Creek. The engineered design for the new crossings calls for full-spanning timber bridges that will be bundled under one contract and implemented over three years (2022 to 2024). Bundling the crossings together allows for cost savings on many fronts and is an efficient use of dollars, time, and management for all involved. The project will improve the overall health of the river and its surrounding habitat by restoring full passage for aquatic species at all life stages, opening a total of 12 miles upstream and 20 miles downstream. The new crossings also will drastically reduce erosion by eliminating 25 tons of sediment each year that currently enters the stream. This project is in it’s final stages, with construction to take place in 2024/2025

Boyne City Area

Boyne Citizen Grant Award: $12,197

The Boyne Citizen is a local, nonprofit news source for the Boyne area, created in response to the "news desert” in our local area. Currently, residents have no regular, reliable, unbiased media covering the local news that is necessary to be an informed citizen. Grant funds will help to support professional writers, and editorial and bookkeeping services.

Boyne District Library Grant Award: $1,672

To inspire later success in children and encourage family bonding, the Boyne District Library Children's Services will host a "Family Battle of the Books," which will meet once a month for four months, starting in January 2025. Families will read a book together, discuss it, and prepare for a fun quiz game at the library. Grant funds will support the purchase of books for families to read and keep as well as dinner to be served at the Battle of the Books event each month.

Boyne Valley Community Greenhouse Grant Award: $10,000

The BVCG’s mission is to help break Northern Michigan's poverty cycle through support, education, hands-on learning, and positive interaction. This year alone, they have provided more than 28,000 pounds of fresh produce to families in need. Now, they are expanding to offer a community space with a classroom and commercial teaching kitchen which will be available to the public at no cost. The classroom space will allow BVCG to "teach people how to fish," so to speak, encouraging them to help themselves, in addition to continuing the important work of providing food directly. Grant funds will support the purchase of commercial kitchen equipment.

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Beaver Island

Beaver Island Wildlife Club Grant Award: $6,000

In 2021, the BIWC installed a modest fishing pier at Lake Genesereth—a popular spot for both locals and visitors. Building on this success, BIWC seeks to significantly expand the project by constructing a larger, ADA-compliant pier that would extend further into Lake Genesereth, ensuring that individuals of all physical abilities have the opportunity to enjoy fishing at one of the Island’s most beloved inland lakes. Grant funds will support the first fully accessible fishing pier on the Island.

Beaver Island Performing Arts Alliance Grant Award: $1,000

Many Islanders work during the summer making it possible for visitors to enjoy BIPAA's offerings, but at the cost of missing many of the events during the busy season. With intentional timing during Small Business Weekend, the proposed holiday concert and outreach not only communicates to Island residents how important they are to the BIPAA mission but also invites them to shop downtown and enjoy the music and sense of community. Grant funds will help support a holiday concert for the entire BI community followed by an in-school performance and educational programming at the Beaver Island Community School.

Tunes Music Makers Grant Award: $9,000

TMM is the only organization currently offering music education on Beaver Island. They aim to expand access to music education for school-age children, thus enriching the educational and cultural experiences of students and providing access to consistent music education. Grant funds will allow the organization to bring in an Indigenous fiddle instructor and to continue offering music lessons.

Beaver Island Historical Society Grant Award: $3,000

In 2016, the BIHS acquired the Miss Bay City, a trap net fishing boat which has a long history of fishing the Beaver Island archipelago waters. The goal is to renovate the Miss Bay City into an interactive museum exhibit. This also enhances another project that St. James Township is leading—a public fishing pier connecting to the Marine Museum with a ramp to the Miss Bay City. Grant funds will specifically help with light renovations and painting of the Miss Bay City.

Beaver Island Rural Health Center Grant Award: $2,374

The BIRHC is doing tremendous work on the Island every single day. Whether it’s caring for the sick or injured, vaccinating people against COVID-19, or educating patients about health and wellness. Research has shown that the straightforward need to replace obsolete equipment, such as office desk chairs, helps make office operations more efficient and improves office morale. Grant funds will help the Center to replace the current 24 year old, worn-out office chairs with new office chairs.

Little Traverse Conservancy Grant Award: $11,250

LTC recognizes that BI is a very special place for people, culture, and wildlife and is seeking support to purchase and protect 40 acres of wetland property. Rare properties like this one are what maintain this essence for the Island—expanded wildlife habitat that offers a sanctuary for diverse species and preserves the natural beauty of BI for future generations, forever. Grant funds will help to purchase and protect this 40-acre wetland parcel.

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Charlevoix Area

Charlevoix Township Grant Award: $10,300

Charlevoix Township has a long-term goal to improve public accessibility to Lake Michigan at Charlevoix Township Park. This park currently provides a degree of public access; however, the beach and lake are inaccessible to many with mobility challenges due to the steep grade of the path connecting the parking lot to the beach. Grant funds will support an engineering study and conceptual site plan which will allow the Township to begin the planning to improve this access gap for all people.

Charlevoix Circle of Arts Grant Award: $10,000

CCA is seeking support for its community outreach programs to reach rural communities, particularly youth and lower-income families, which tend to have fewer cultural amenities. Grant funds will allow CCA to deliver free, high-quality cultural experiences at events such as Apple Fest and the Holiday Parade & Tree Lighting, and many more, to address this gap and work to ensure that all members of the community can engage with the arts.

Charlevoix Historical Society Grant Award: $6,000

CHS has been updating their technology to keep up with the demands of their mission, which is to enrich Charlevoix culture through preservation, education, and engaging experiences celebrating our history. Grant funds will help CHS to replace two old and outdated staff workstations with new equipment that has sufficient hard drive space, the functionality needed to meet the demands of the job, and the ability to be networked to the new server.

Bergmann Center Grant Award: $8,625

Bergmann Center has been serving individuals with developmental, physical, and/or mental disabilities for over 60 years. Recent staff changes and community engagement expansion efforts require an increase in capacity at the Center. Grant funds will support the necessary upgrading of internet equipment and connections to improve efficiency of all staff.

Charlevoix Area Community Pool Grant Award: $2,500

The Charlevoix Area Community Pool is reviving the Stingray Swim Team with the help of Megan Smithburg—a Charlevoix nurse and experienced swim coach. Being a part of a team enhances a child's swimming abilities, physical fitness, and confidence while teaching valuable life skills such as time management and discipline. Grant funds will help to re-start the program with the goal of being self-sustaining after this first year.

Traverse City Dance Project Grant Award: $2,000

The mission of the TCDP is to produce and present professional dance in Northern Michigan, promoting collaboration among artists and actively engaging with the community. As the only professional dance company in the region, the TDCP aims to provide high-quality cultural experiences for all community members including enhancing accessibility to live theater, particularly in rural areas. Grant funds will support bringing a live, professional dance performance to Charlevoix in the summer of 2025 as part of TDCP's 2025 Community Tour.

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East Jordan Area

City of East Jordan Grant Award: $16,000

Memorial Park plays host to nearly all festivals and events in EJ throughout the year, boasts several sculptures as part of the Jordan Art Walk, and hosts boaters, tourists, and locals on a daily basis. Grant funds will support park upgrades and amenities, such as lighting and memorial benches, as part of the current Memorial Park Improvements Project.

Friends of the Jordan River Watershed Grant Award: $20,000

FJR now serves as the head end for the new Don and Eileen Klein Nature Trail. Increased traffic at the FJR Watershed Center has created more interest around the authentic Jordan River flatboat used for fishing in the 1800s. The exhibit, housed in the on-site pavilion, needs restoration and protection from the elements to preserve this piece of EJ history for the future. Grant funds will support a professional redesign of the permanent year-round exhibit that will survive the elements and further inform visitors of this important legacy in EJ history.

Training Wheels Childcare Center Grant Award: $10,275

TWCC provides quality childcare by promoting the growth of physical, cognitive, social, and emotional needs while recognizing that each child is unique and treasured. In order to do this, they must continue improving the childcare center and offering rich learning experiences for East Jordan's precious children. Grant funds will help TWCC to purchase a play structure called the "Smart Play Nook" which will provide sensory, motor skill, cognitive and social skill engagement, and enhancement for children from 6 months and older.

East Jordan Public Schools Grant Award: $18,000

In the past, East Jordan High School performed yearly musical productions that were the pride of the community. After a 13 year hiatus, they are restarting the drama program thanks to staff member and drama program coordinator, Cody Morrison. Grant funds will help to replace the speaker system and amplifiers to provide a quality learning experience for students and performances for the community.

The Depot Jordan Valley Teen Center Grant Award: $6,000

The Depot provides a safe and supportive environment at the Teen Zone facility in downtown EJ where teens have opportunities to be active, interact with peers, build confidence, and learn responsible decision making. Grant funds will help to purchase and install appropriate fencing to increase the safety and security of EJ teens.

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Urgent Needs

Ronald McDonald House of Western MI Grant Award: $10,000

When a child is facing a medical crisis, the entire family is deeply affected on a financial, psychological, emotional, and social level. By providing families a place to stay, home cooked meals, transportation assistance, and much more, RMHCWM is helping families navigate some of the hardest times in their lives. In the past year, they've served seven families from Charlevoix County and saved them a collective $9,653, not including transportation costs. Grant funds would continue to support Charlevoix County families who need the RMHCWM due to a child's illness. While they have requested $10,000, we know that the real need in any given year could be much higher.

Beaver Island Historical Society Grant Amount: $1,200

The BIHS proposes a collaborative project with the BI Community Center and BI Chamber of Commerce to increase winter activities in the community by providing snowshoes for people to borrow to explore the Island. Grant funds will help to purchase 32 pairs of snowshoes to accomodate various ages and weights.

Peaine Township Grant Amount: $1,000

Peaine Township is a local government entity on BI dedicated to serving and engaging the community, with the mission of enhancing transparency and communication. Grant funds will help the township to purchase video monitors and related equipment to make board meetings accessible to the public even if not physically present.

Northern Michigan Equine Therapy Grant Amount: $1,000

Leadership Charlevoix County Class of 2024 has partnered with NMET - a nonprofit outpatient rehabilitation facility where they harness the healing power of horses to improve lives as a therapeutic tool in occupational therapy (hippotherapy) and their specially developed mental health program, HorseSense® - for their class project. Grant funds will help provide several scholarships for Charlevoix County residents.

First Congregational Church - UCC Grant Amount: $1,000

FCC was advised by a tree service company that the 150 year old horse chestnut tree between the church and the Historical Society Museum is compromised and should be taken down ASAP. Grant funds will support the professional removal of the tree to eliminate the risk to the adjacent buildings and surrounding grounds.

Top of Michigan Mountain Bike Association Grant Amount: $1,500

TOMBBA is seeking funding for trail counters to measure which trails get the most use, so they can more accurately understand the existing impact of their efforts and where they can improve. Grant funds would purchase trail head counters for TOMMBA to better assess the impact of their projects and mission.

Last Dance Rescue Ranch Grant Amount: $1,240

LDRR serves as permanent, lifelong sanctuary for domestic and farm animals, focusing on elderly animals or those with special medical needs. They need an easy-to-navigate website, which will allow them to better communicate their mission, provide education, aid in fundraising, and keep the public updated about animals' conditions or when they have availability to take on more animals. Grant funds will support website development.

Boyne Arts Collective Grant Amount: $1,500

The Boyne Arts Center is bringing interactive art activities to Stroll the Streets this summer, as well as Plein Air painters and artist demos once a month, as part of their mission to inspire, serve, and strengthen community through the arts. Grant funds will help to purchase art supplies and materials for the activities.

Boyne Heritage Center Grant Amount: $1,105

BHC’s is bringing living history activities to Stroll the Streets where staff or volunteers will dress in historic clothes and engage in lumber camp activities - like storytelling, sharpening tools, and playing cards - as part of their renewed vision of bringing history out into the community. Grant funds will help purchase historical clothing in line with early 1900s workwear and the reproduction of a leather dock worker's apron.

First Tee Northern Michigan Grant Amount: $1,000

The “Golf in Schools” program aims to promote character development and values education through the game of golf for students ages 5-17 in Chx Cty schools. Grant funds will support program expansion to more schools.

Great Lakes Chamber Orchestra Grant Amount: $1,200

The GLCO wishes to create a unique opportunity for local community players to perform alongside the orchestra in an upcoming concert with the aim to empower local musicians and create meaningful connections. Grant funds will support expenses related to the cost of sheet music acquisition and preparing 15-20 community players for the performance.

Northern Community Mediation Grant Amount: $1,500

NCM's computers need to be replaced to be compatible with statewide systems and programs such as the State Court Administrative Office, Special Education, and Michigan Department of Health and Human Services. Grant funds will help cover the contractual expenses for the installation of four computers.

Beaver Island Community School Grant Amount: $1,500

BICS’ project seeks to address the Island’s quality child care crisis in two ways: to gather data on the "child care landscape" of BI and provide recommendations of options available to Island residents, businesses, and local governments to address the situation. Grant funds will support the childcare landscape assessment on BI.

Versiti Blood Center of Michigan Grant Amount: $1,500

As the sole blood bank servicing Charlevoix County, Versiti plays a crucial role in sustaining our local healthcare system and saving lives through vital blood donations. Grant funds will support supplies expenses and travel costs to and from the Island for blood drive staff.

Community Reformed Church Grant Amount: $1,000

Safe Haven Ministries (SHM) of the CRC has been supplying Charlevoix Area students with school supplies for the last eight years; however, the cost of supplies and the number of families have increased and donations have not kept up with demand. Grant funds will support closing the gap, so SHM can continue to serve the community.

Beaver Island Association Grant Amount: $600

The BIA is hosting a dedication event to showcase the new Dark Sky Sanctuary on BI. Grant funds will help them to print dark sky viewing maps and dark sky educational materials for the event and for future educational use.

Northwest Michigan Habitat for Humanity Grant Amount: $1,500

During their most recent strategic plan, NWMI Habitat for Humanity identified the goal of improving and growing their volunteer management program. Grant funds will support the addition of a new volunteer management software which works seamlessly with Habitat's existing software.

Preservation Association of Beaver Island Grant Amount: $600

The BI Community Center is committed to providing free to low cost musical concerts to the community. This year, the Community Christmas concert will showcase Island youth and the songs they are learning on instruments through the Tunes Music Makers program. Grant funds will support the holiday concert.

Au Sable Institute Grant Amount: $1,500

ASI’s Restoration Ecology for Young Students (REYS) program is a multi-lesson, field and classroom-based program that actively engages students in authentic ecological restoration to help conserve and protect local environments. Grant funds will provide Charlevoix County students with 1,000 native plants to be used in their restoration project that will take place within the students’ home watershed.

Beaver Island Rural Health Center Grant Amount: $3,323

In order for the BIRHC to maintain optimum hygienic conditions, the Center needed to address a problem it had in cleaning and disinfecting the Health Center's high touch surfaces in the waiting rooms, including seating for all ages and furniture for children. Grant funds helped the BIRHC to purchase new seating and waiting room furniture that comply with today's cleaning standards and will last for years to come.

Beaver Island Rural Health Center Grant Amount: $4,460

Primary care pediatric nurse practitioners offer a continuum of care to patients from birth through adolescence. Grant funds are supporting bringing a pediatric nurse practitioner to the Island for a total of 8 visits in 2025 to help gauge the need for this service, and to provide services to Island residents.

Boyne Valley Pantry Grant Amount: $3,000

The Boyne Valley Pantry currently serves over 200 families per month, which is a 25% increase from last year. They needed to replace their double door, 49 cubic foot food cooler because it was leaking water on the food products and no longer kept food at a consistent temperature. Grant funds went towards the purchase of a new food and health regulation compliant cooler.

Camp Daggett Grant Amount: $1,000

Camp Daggett welcomes over 1,000 campers in 8 weeks of summer camp and hosts school and community groups year-round in their indoor adventure center and climbing facility. They used to share a single operational AED device across the entire campus, which spans 140 acres with multiple buildings. Grant funds helped purchase another AED unit and training module to improve access to this critical safety equipment at camp.

Child & Family Services of Northwestern Michigan Grant Amount: $5,000

CFS currently has 5 licensed foster homes in Charlevoix County, which house 7 children in foster care, 1 family who has been reunified, and soon expect to have several Safe Haven North clients. Grant funds helped address shelter repairs, utilities, safety equipment, food, healthcare, transportation, and other essential items for children and families in and/or from Charlevoix County involved in the foster care system or Safe Haven North.

Manna Food Project Grant Amount: $21,250

The number of people seeking assistance from the Manna Food Project increased by 56% between 2022 and 2023, and by 11% in Charlevoix County alone. Manna’s mission is to not only feed our neighbors, but also to provide a well-balanced and nutritious diet, ensuring everyone has access to healthy foods. Grant funds helped purchase fresh produce, protein, and dairy products, to connect those who are food insecure with the healthiest options possible.

Northmen Den Youth Pantries Inc. Grant Amount: $5,000

Round Lake Education Center (RLEC) is a court-facilitated program for adjudicated high school-aged youth in Charlevoix County that focuses on rehabilitation rather than punishment and seeks to help youthful offenders reform and reintegrate into society. While NDYP has pantries all over Emmet County, this pantry at RLEC is the only one in Charlevoix County. Grant funds helped provide food for students at RLEC.

Ronald McDonald House of Western MI Grant Amount: $10,000

RMHCWM is helping families navigate some of the hardest times in their lives by providing them with a place to stay, home cooked meals, transportation assistance, and much more, while children receive medical care. In the past year, they've served seven families from Charlevoix County and saved them a collective $9,653, not including transportation costs. Grant funds have ensured the continued support of Charlevoix County families who need RMHCWM due to a child's illness.

Mental Health

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwestern Michigan, Inc. Grant Amount: $12,600
Big Brothers Big Sisters has currently matched 50 children with dedicated mentors in Charlevoix County and already has nine youth on the waitlist. When children are paired with compassionate, trained mentors, they gain a trusted ally who can guide them through life's challenges and complexities while providing a safe space where vulnerability is welcomed. Funds will support matching five youth with mentors.

Child & Family Services of Northwestern Michigan Grant Amount: $5,000
CFSNWMI seeks to create an Outdoor Oasis space for families to use at Safe Haven North. Creating physical space for positive interactions during supervised visits reduces the stress levels of youth and children. Adults, too, do better when there is something that facilitates interaction with their child or teen. Funds will supply the safety-approved, heavy-duty swingset with a chin-up bar.

Child Abuse Prevention & Education Council Grant Amount: $5,000
The CAPE Annual Conference, held each spring, hosts nationally recognized speakers to provide professional development opportunities to the diverse field of individuals working with children, families, and parents. Attendees learn how to better understand and engage with youth who may be in crisis and gain tools to support positive relationships between youth, parents, and community members as they navigate social and emotional development together. Funds will help support the overall conference including marketing, venue, presenters, lodging, continued education credits, food and beverage, and supplies.

East Jordan Public Schools Grant Amount: $10,000
Students learn best when all of their needs are met and they are supported within the school environment. EJ Elementary School found that students and staff identified self-management and self-awareness as areas of behavior struggles, with the classroom and playground as the most common sites for referrals. Funds will help purchase supplies and social-emotional regulation tools for spaces in 25 classrooms, the Student Success Room, playground, and indoor hallway.

Northern Michigan Equine Therapy Grant Amount: $2,500
Replacing old equipment enhances the safety, comfort, and overall experience of clients and therapy horses for effective equine assisted experiences. To continue delivering high-quality, safe, and effective services, NMET needs new saddles, adaptive stirrups and tack, helmets, horse care equipment, and protective gear for horses. Funds will help purchase new tack and equipment for therapy services.

Planned Parenthood of Michigan Grant Amount: $8,000
PPMI seeks to create a digital and printed sexual health education resource toolkit for youth and supportive adults to provide continuous, reliable information and resources. The toolkit goes beyond a single interaction, providing education and advocacy in a new and more sustainable way, while also providing more autonomy, agency and self-determination for youth. Funds will support the creation of the toolkit, a youth and adult advisory board, and continuation of comprehensive, medically accurate and inclusive sexual health education at East Jordan Middle High School and Charlevoix High School.

The Depot Jordan Valley Teen Center Grant Amount: $2,750
The Depot provides programming, mentoring, classes, and various resources to East Jordan teens in 6th-12th grades throughout northern Michigan. Funds will allow the Depot staff to send their teens to equine therapy sessions as an extension of the mentoring and connections they have already created.

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Recreation

Beaver Island Historical Society Grant Amount: $4,000
BIHS’ Kids Camp—a week long daytime camp for 50, mostly local, youth from 4-13 years of age—builds upon wellbeing, sense of place, acceptance and cultural diversity. Customized daily programs incorporate cultural themes, explore the natural landscape, and teach Island history; activites are led by young adults to encourage leadership skills. Funds will help offset the costs of labor, food, and supplies.

Camp Daggett Grant Amount: $4,000
Downtown Daggett, located at the heart of CD, holds significant potential as a key, centrally located social and functional hub for camp counselors. CD would like to revitalize Downtown Daggett to provide a unique and peaceful gathering space for counselors to unwind during camp week. Funds will support landscaping to address runoff issues and the creation of a hammock lounge.

Crooked Tree Arts Center Grant Amount: $5,000
The CTAC School of Ballet trains young people for careers in dance, stagecraft, screendance, lighting, choreography, pedagogy, and Special Needs Artistic Movement. Student choreographers are responsible for creative production, rehearsals, costuming, music, stage light design, working with the stage manager, and publicly speaking about their work. Funds will support a professional dance mentor residency to work with a group of pre-professional dance students in enriching confidence, self-motivation, and a sense of community.

Girl Scouts of Michigan Shore to Shore Grant Amount: $8,585
Girl Scouts builds girls of courage, confidence, and character who make the world a better place. With diverse experiences in STEM, outdoor activities, life skills, and entrepreneurship, GSMISTS programming equips girls with critical skills like teamwork, resilience, and problem-solving, preparing them for success in the region and beyond. Funds will provide essential starter kits, financial aid, and vital program support to new Girl Scout Troops in the Charlevoix County region.

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Education

North Central Michigan College Foundation Grant Amount: $8,500
In 2024, over an eight-week session, NCMC hosted 240 local students across 32 classes, from STEM subjects to the Arts, in their Summer Learning Academy (SLA) program for students in 3rd-8th grade. This program offers students early exposure to the college environment, familiarizes families with NCMC’s resources and programs, and empowers students to pursue future educational and personal development opportunities. Funds will support scholarships and program expenses to ensure Charlevoix County residents can participate.

PoWeR! Book Bags Grant Amount: $10,000
PBB's mission is to increase children’s experiences with language, literacy, and human interactions so that they can better understand themselves, communicate with others, and connect with the world. They partner with community organizations and sites to provide an ongoing supply of literacy materials, suggested activities, and developmental guidelines directly to children and families in their network. Funds will help purchase materials for PoWeR! Book Bags.

Raven Hill Discovery Center Grant Amount: $5,000
RHDC’s mission is to provide a place that enhances hands-on and lifelong learning for all ages by connecting science, history and the arts. The Here or There (HOT) Project is a flexible model for students and teachers to access hands-on learning offered by RHDC through a traditional field trip or an outreach program that brings lessons to the classroom. Funds will offer one field trip/outreach program to 50 students, in addition to teachers and chaperones, at 10 Charlevoix County schools.

Beaver Island Performing Arts Alliance Grant Amount: $1,000
The Beaver Island Performing Arts Alliance (BIPAA) produces the Baroque on Beaver music festival and promotes the performing arts to enrich the cultural life of the greater Beaver Island community. In particular, BIPAA provides the opportunity to experience world-class professional performances of both classical and contemporary music. This year, BIPAA will use funds to strengthen the Baroque on Beaver festival chorus by supporting four choral scholars to perform in the chorus. In recent years, the number of strong amateur singers who have participated in the past has declined, while the importance of choral music in the overall festival has increased. Bringing on professionally trained singers ensures that the quality of the festival chorus will match the high quality of the festival orchestra. Besides strengthening the chorus, choral scholars will gain valuable professional experience, including the unique opportunity to sing with a full orchestra.

Charlevoix Circle of Arts Grant Amount: $1,000

Charlevoix Circle of Arts (CCA) will funds to support core arts programming, which provides children and adults in Charlevoix and surrounding communities with opportunities for expression, connection, and creating through a variety of arts experiences, including fine art exhibits, art workshops, dance classes, youth programs, and lectures. CCA has an increased need for program funding as demand for programs continues to grow. Based on community feedback, CCA recently expanded its offerings to include Art-Ventures, a children’s after school art program, and in the coming months, CCA is also planning to add a ceramics/pottery program with classes for multiple ages and skill levels.

Charlevoix Historical Society Grant Amount: $4,500

The Charlevoix Historical Society will use funds to produce a new exhibit on the maritime history of Charlevoix, which will open at the Harsha House Museum during the 2023 summer season. The display will include over 250 historic images, plus relevant text and maritime artifacts. The exhibit will include topics like: Indigenous Relationships to Water, Improving Waterways (bridges, docks, channels, lighthouses), Coast Guard, Shipwrecks, Vessels, (Steamers, Schooners, Tugs, Passenger Liners, Yachts), Personal Stories from the Lakes, Commerce and Industry (Fishing, Lumbering, Boatbuilders), Regattas and Recreation. Funds will be used to create professional exhibit displays.

Crooked Tree Arts Center Grant Amount: $2,000

Crooked Tree Arts Center (CTAC) is working to update and beautify the CTAC Theater. Situated in the sanctuary of the former Petoskey United Methodist Church in downtown Petoskey, the 220-seat CTAC Theater is a cornerstone in our northern Michigan community. It is not only home to CTAC’s performing arts series but also serves as community resource for other area nonprofit programming, including the Little Traverse Civic Theater, Blissfest Music Organization, Charlevoix Circle of the Arts, and more. Funds will help to repair and paint the walls, stage, ceilings, trusses, windows, doors, and replace the carpeting as part of a $68,000 capital improvement project.

East Jordan Public Schools Grant Amount: $6,000

East Jordan Public Schools is improving infrastructure for arts displays and performances at the school. Purchasing lightweight, durable, professional art display panels will elevate the quality of student art shows and increase student confidence and pride in their art. Replacing the projection screen in the community auditorium and upgrading the screen to be controlled from one location in the auditorium will improve the efficiency and quality of student and community performances. Funds will be used to purchase these important upgrades, thus enhancing the experience for students and the community.

Great Lakes Center for the Arts Grant Amount: $3,500
In the past three years the Dorothy Gerber String Program has almost doubled its enrollment to 200 students, 50 of whom are from Charlevoix County. Through the program, students may participate in free classes for violin, viola, cello, and bass offered in 11 different schools for beginning, intermediate, and advanced levels. These free classes are offered in three Charlevoix County schools: East Jordan, Boyne City, and Charlevoix, plus private lessons for Beaver Island students. As the region's only string instrument education program, the DGSP offers Northern Michigan families and students an opportunity to learn a musical instrument at a young age and to continue their musical education as they move through school. Funds will be used in direct support of the free class program serving Charlevoix County schools and students.

Great Lakes Chamber Orchestra Grant Amount: $4,500
The Great Lakes Chamber Orchestra (GLCO) is planning to host “Women Composers Night,” a concert that will be dedicated to orchestral works of women composers. The GLCO selected this theme in their continued efforts to promote gender equality in arts. Female artists in visual arts, literature, and music have been in the shadow of their male counterparts for centuries. Film directors, producers, authors, and conductors around the world are recognizing this disparity and calling for change through the use of their platforms. Dedicating the September 2023 concert to women composers is another step in the GLCO’s commitment to breaking the barriers of gender inequality in the arts. Funds will help make this production possible for the community.

Raven Hill Discovery Center Grant Amount: $5,000

Raven Hill Discovery Center’s mission is to provide a place that enhances hands-on and lifelong learning for all ages by connecting science, history & the arts. Raven Hill will host another Smithsonian Museum on Main Street (MoMS) exhibit called "Spark! Places of Innovation in Rural America," which will be open from late August to early October, 2023. Funds will help cover September and early October 2023 field trips for Charlevoix County students to experience the national Spark! exhibition and the Center’s related exhibits.

Tara's Meadow Education & Retreat Center Grant Amount: $2,500
Tara's Meadow (TM) has hosted group retreats, individual sojourns, and collaborative events on Beaver Island and on the mainland in Charlevoix and Emmet Counties. Weaving nature, culture, history, and creativity with current social and environmental challenges, they prepare individuals and organizations to become empowered participants in their own lives, the health of their communities, and our global future. The Anishinaabe Water Ceremony, Celtic Blessing, and Strawberry Moon Feast are annual events that anchor the well-attended Beaver Island Sustainability Fair each June. Their purpose is to bring people together to honor and share in traditions from both Anishinaabe/Odawa and Irish/Celtic heritage. Funds will help support this important cultural event.

Arts

Charlevoix Circle of Arts Grant Amount: $5,000
CCA programs provide children and adults in Charlevoix and surrounding communities with opportunities for expression, connection, and creation through a variety of arts experiences, including fine art exhibits, art workshops, dance classes, youth programs, and lectures. CCA has an increased need for program funding because the demand for programs continues to grow. This grant will help CCA in developing new programs and continuing to provide existing, high-quality programs.

Crooked Tree Arts Center Grant Amount: $5,000
Situated in the sanctuary of a former church in downtown Petoskey, the 220-seat theater is not only home to Crooked Tree Arts Center’s performing arts series and a multitude of arts-related events, but also serves as community resource for other area nonprofit programming. Thousands from across the region attend artistic events in the CTAC Theater each year. Most recent renovations to the theater occurred over 20 years ago and this essential community arts space has begun to deteriorate. Grant funding will help to paint the walls, ceiling, and trusses.

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Culture and History

Northern Michigan Antique Fly Wheelers Club Grant Amount: $2,300
NMAF is an educational nonprofit comprised solely of volunteers that hosts an annual show in July which is open to the public and provides a look at life in rural northern Michigan prior to electricity. All Charlevoix County schools, public and private, participate in educational days for fourth grade field trips in September. Grant funds will be used toward the purchase of a new commercial gas grill to replace the old grill. The new grill will be easy for volunteers to use and will improve efficiency of food service by reducing wait times for event attendees while also increasing revenue for the organization.

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Community

Beaver Island Historical Society Grant Amount: $4,000
BIHS works to preserve and share the unique history of Beaver Island and the Archipelago though museums and publications. Recently, the BIHS expanded their capacity and saved the local paper, the Northern Islander, from becoming defunct. BIHS publications help provide a platform for unity as an Island community and help bridge the gap between mainland and Island opportunities. Grant funds will help BIHS to purchase some needed equipment to support the production of the Northern Islander newspaper.

City of Boyne City Grant Amount: $10,000
By combining traditional public safety methods with drones, the Boyne City Police Department (BCPD) and its partners can significantly improve missions involving the protection of life and preservation of property. In an effort to ensure that they are positioned to help, especially when minutes matter, BCPD is continually seeking out more effective, efficient, and safe ways to act on behalf of those who need them most, when they need them most. This grant will support the acquisition of 4 drones that will be available to all of Charlevoix County through partnerships with BCPD and other first responding agencies.

City of Boyne City Grant Amount: $4,450
Local trail systems in the Boyne Area have expanded in the last few years, resulting in a large increase of 911 responses to the trail system to perform remote rescues for injured bikers. Access to the areas is complex and many areas where bikers need assistance can be miles from the place where first responders gain access. Boyne EMS partnered with Top of Michigan Mountain Bike Association in 2021 to obtain a specialized litter wheel to help with remote rescues. Now, grant funds will help to purchase an appropriate basket to use with the wheel for remote rescues.

North Central Michigan College Foundation Grant Amount: $15,000
With fewer high school graduates, and those graduates going on to college at a lower percentage, combined with COVID-related retirements, the workforce in critical industries has decreased dramatically. Seeing this problem, NCMC introduced Fast Track programs. These non-credit programs are short, intensive, and offered in a variety of fields such as Health Care, Manufacturing, Skilled Trades, and Business. Grant funds will help provide financial support to students to enroll and complete Fast Track programs so they can start filling local jobs and earn a livable wage to support their families.

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Environment

Little Traverse Conservancy Grant Amount: $12,500
LTC has the rare opportunity to protect 56 undeveloped acres of pristine forest on Lake Michigan, the largest piece from the Mackinac Bridge to Charlevoix with 1/4 mile of shoreline. Grant funds will help LTC to protect this special place as a nature preserve complete with a universally accessible trail to view the splendor of Little Traverse Bay.

Village of Boyne Falls Grant Amount: $2,000
The Village of Boyne Falls is helping to determine the fate of the Boyne Falls Dam that is under their ownership and impounds the pond near the M-75 and US-131 intersection. The dam has surpassed its 100-year lifespan and scores a significant hazard potential rating. The Village and partners are pursuing funding for a feasibility study to explore removing the aging dam, restoring a healthy stream channel, returning the river to its relic pattern, determining new crossing options for the connected M-75 and Cherry Hill Road sites, and attending to the century-old, upstream remnants of the former grist mill dam and railroad bridge. Grant funds will help develop and print an outreach pamphlet that will describe the overall project and help to clarify confusion about which dam is being discussed.

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Health

Beaver Island Rural Health Center Grant Amount: $2,094
BIRHC will improve patient care with two high-priority purchases: a trauma room stretcher/gurney and specialized x-ray software. The stretcher/gurney has been in service for well over the recommended lifespan. With the Center's recent and strategic investment in a new x-ray machine, Center clinicians now have an opportunity to take speedier and more accurate x-rays by adding specialized software. This ensures patient callbacks are kept to a minimum, reducing patient exposure to radiation, and offers expeditious and accurate care for patients. Grant funds will help with both purchases, improving patient experience and care.

City of Charlevoix Grant Amount: $2,000
Through the development of a new health and wellness initiative called Charlevoix Fit, the City of Charlevoix Recreation Department hopes to help reduce obesity and the prevalence of chronic disease by providing opportunities to increase physical activity in a variety of forms; provide a connection to nature, which studies demonstrate relieves stress levels, improves interpersonal relationships, and improves mental health; and foster overall wellness and healthful habits and engage users in opportunities that enrich or add balance to life. Grant funds will support hiring fitness instructors for the first year of this new program.

East Jordan Ambulance Association Grant Amount: $7,000
In order to continue meeting its mission of delivering exceptional patient care, the East Jordan Ambulance Association must ensure the quality training, education, and wellbeing of the crew, as well as have adequate facilities in which to operate. The proposed expansion of the main station facility will include a fitness center, a boardroom, a drive-through wash bay, and additional offices and storage. With this expansion project, they have an opportunity to remain stationed at the current location, build something to benefit both EMS and the Fire Department, and provide a new facility for the City, Schools, and Department of Public Works of East Jordan. Grant funds will help EJAA to get initial designs and schematics for the project.

Hospice of Michigan Grant Amount: $7,500
As loved ones go through their unique grief journey, Hospice of Michigan’s (HOM) Grief Support Services are there to provide guidance, compassion, and care. Grief Support Services offer grieving and bereavement counseling tailored to meet the needs of both adults and children who are grieving regardless of whether they or a loved one was cared for by HOM. Grant funds will help to provide Grief Support Services to Charlevoix County residents in 2023.

Northern Michigan Equine Grant Amount: $8,000
NMET is dedicated to using the healing nature of horses as a therapeutic tool to enhance independence, self-confidence, and quality of life for those living with physical and mental health needs. Programs are offered by licensed and certified professionals. From autism, depression, at-risk youth and high anxiety, to spinal cord injuries and strokes, their promise is simple - horses heal humans. Due to inflation, costs of horse feed, hay, supplements, and vet care have increased exponentially. Grant funds will be used toward therapy horse costs.

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Human Services

Northern Community Mediation Grant Amount: $10,000
NCM helps people meaningfully and cost-effectively resolve their conflicts by providing mediation services as an alternative to litigation. In March, NCM fulfilled a long-time goal of owning its own facility with handicap accessibility, convenient parking for clients, technological capacity, and a professional appearance. The office provides more capacity for the organization to meet their mission, but it was unexpected. Grant funds will help NCM with this one-time unexpected increase in operational costs.

Women's Resource Center of Northern Michigan Grant Amount: $18,000
The Children's Advocacy Center (CAC) was developed in response to an identified need for community services that address child sexual assault, sexual abuse, physical abuse/neglect, and any other form of harm inflicted on children and youth. The nationally recognized, evidence-based CAC model has been shown to reduce further traumatization, improve access to supportive resources, and increase offender accountability. Grant funds will help support the CAC for Charlevoix County families.

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Recreation

Challenge Mountain Grant Amount: $1,906
Winter adaptive recreation is the core of Challenge Mountain’s year-round programming and volunteer ski instructors have always been the heart of the organization. It has been over twelve years since Challenge Mountain purchased volunteer ski instructor jackets and the supply no longer serves the growing number of volunteers. Jackets help participants and their families identify volunteer ski instructors, snowmobile drivers, and helpers on the ski hill and also builds pride and awareness among volunteers both at the ski hill and in the community.

Charlevoix Area Community Pool Grant Amount: $10,000
The CACP is celebrating 25 years in operation in 2023 and will use grant support to build capacity and replace aging equipment. Labor shortages in our area have made recruiting lifeguards a challenge. At the same time, the community is looking for the pool to be open more on weekends. Grant funds will help the pool to run more lifeguard trainings and recruit more lifeguards with the goal of being open for a few hours on Sundays to meet community need. Additionally, funds will help the pool get a new pool vacuum to replace the old one, which is increasingly unreliable.

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Youth

Char-Em ISD – Great Start Collaborative Grant Amount: $10,000
Two government programs provide free preschool to children based on financial need and risk factors, but they leave a gap in eligibility, which leaves many children in need of support. The Great Start Preschool Scholarship Project (GSPSP) fills the State & Federal preschool funding gap in Charlevoix and Emmet Counties. Going beyond the capacity of government-funded preschool programs, GSPSP provides preschool tuition for eligible children ages 3-5 and placement into preschool programs that participate in the state's Quality Improvement Process. Funds will help place Charlevoix County students in need into quality preschool programs and could also help some families in need to keep their children in tuition based preschool if their circumstances change unexpectedly during the year.

East Jordan Public Schools Grant Amount: $10,000
Boswell Stadium, at East Jordan Public Schools, is a place where students are and have been challenged, supported, and nurtured. This gathering space is important for the entire community. Grant funds will help support phase 1 improvements to Boswell Stadium, including bathroom upgrades, repairing the area in front of the concession stand, and replacing the damaged flagpole.

Power Book Bags Grant Amount: $1,000
The mission of PoWeR! Book Bags is to increase children's experiences with language, literacy, and human interactions so that they better understand themselves, communicate with others, and connect with the world. Early relational health is fundamental to future health, and life success depends on the daily interactions with parents and caregivers in a child's world. PoWeR! Book Bags works in conjunction with community partners to bring parents/caregivers resources to use at home with their children to promote language, literacy, and early relational health. With each visit to a strategic community partner (like the Health Department or Women's Resource Center), children and families are invited to select new, age-appropriate books. Once a year, they also receive a PoWeR! Literacy Bag with brand new age-appropriate tools to promote language, play, and interactions. Grant funds will help purchase books and literacy materials for children in Charlevoix County.

Antrim Conservation District, DBA CAKE CISMA Grant Amount: $5,000
The Charlevoix, Antrim, Kalkaska, and Emmet Cooperative Invasive Species Management Area (CAKE CISMA) is one of twenty-two CISMA's located throughout the State of Michigan. They work to protect the natural resources, economy, and human health of Northern Lower Michigan through collaborative outreach and management of invasive species. During the summer field season, they travel the four-county region, making at least 400 individual site visits to map and treat invasive species. In addition to on-the-ground management, CAKE CISMA also participates in many outreach events to raise awareness about the impact of invasive species on Michigan's environment. To grow their capacity they need a reliable, low-mileage truck to transport the crew and tow a trailer. Funds will help purchase a gently used vehicle from a local Northern Michigan dealership.

Beaver Island Historical Society Grant Amount: $2,000
The Beaver Island Historical Society's (BIHS) mission includes not only sharing and preserving the local history, but also educating the public about the delicate balance of natural history and preserving resources to move toward a healthy Island ecosystem. BIHS plans to create a sustainable garden on the Print Shop Museum grounds filled with native pollinator-friendly plants. These plants will help sustain diminishing populations of vital pollinating insects and the interpretive signage they plan to install will educate the public about the flora, fauna, and role of pollinators in the Island ecosystem and beyond. Grant funds will help purchase soil, plants, seeds, and other garden supplies.

Beaver Island Rural Health Center Grant Amount: $8,000
The Beaver Island Rural Health Center (BIRHC) provides care for a community of 600 to 700 year-round residents, more than 40,000 visitors, and 3,000 to 4,000 seasonal residents. The HC offers primary and urgent care, preventive medical care, and chronic condition treatment as well as dental, mental health, substance abuse, chiropractic, physical therapy, optometry, and podiatry services through visiting providers. The HC is looking for ways to lower energy costs while maintaining safety, improving patient experience, and reducing the HC's carbon footprint. Grant funds will help transition all lighting at the HC to LED, which will significantly reduce costs and energy output, while also improving the health and safety of health center staff and patients.

Camp Daggett Grant Amount: $5,000

Camp Daggett's footprint includes 140 acres of land and 1,425 feet of Walloon Lake frontage. The health and sustainability of the land and water on which they reside is instrumental in executing and furthering their mission. With grant funds, they will correct a poorly designed drainage system in a steep shoreline slope and preserve an historic cabin. Work will include removal of a failed underground drainage system, removal of a failed retaining wall, and replacement of the existing retaining wall. The new wall will retain the important root structure of existing vegetation at the top of the steep slope and drainage will be corrected and managed to reduce the threat of erosion.

East Jordan Public Schools Grant Amount: $5,500

East Jordan Public Schools aims to expand outdoor and environmental learning opportunities for students, while also protecting the delicate aquatic ecosystem at Brown's Creek. Currently, students from both the Elementary and Middle High Schools utilize this area, but it has become run down and unsafe at times. EJPS will use funds to upgrade, repair, and add to the existing boardwalk system to make it safe for students and staff to access the area. This project will impact students by connecting them to the resources and landscape around them. It will give them the opportunity to not only learn about the abundant natural resources around them but will also extend classrooms outdoors where hands-on learning can take place.

Friends of the Jordan River Watershed Grant Amount: $5,000
The Friends of the Jordan River Watershed's (FJR) mission is to conserve the natural resources and protect the environmental quality of the Jordan River and its watershed. The proposed Don & Eileen Klein Nature trail will travel right by the FJR Watershed Center when it's complete. FJR plans to have the center open for visitors to help educate the public about conserving and protecting our natural resources. To prepare for this, FJR will need the Watershed Center building in pristine condition. Grant funds will support building maintenance such as painting and staining the exterior of the building and making necessary repairs.

Little Traverse Conservancy Grant Amount: $4,000

Little Traverse Conservancy (LTC) works to protect the natural diversity and beauty of northern Michigan by preserving significant land and scenic areas and fostering appreciation and understanding of the environment. The Hoffmann and DeNardis Nature Preserves contain about 30 acres of wetland habitat including cedar swamp and wet meadow areas where the invasive reed canary grass has taken over. LTC plans to remove invasive species and to follow up with native plantings. Additionally, because there is currently no trail on the DeNardis Preserve, and the most interesting habitats are in and around the wetlands, LTC plans to install a new trail and bridge connecting to the existing trail on the Hoffmann Preserve. Funding will support LTC in invasive species removal, native plant installation, and boardwalk and bridge creation.

Tara's Meadow Education & Retreat Center Grant Amount: $3592
Building on successes over the last few years, Tara's Meadow (TM) will use funding to continue expanding sustainability initiatives on Beaver Island, including events around the Beaver Island Sustainability Fair, as well as research into the Island’s current energy usage, areas of energy weakness and susceptibility, anticipated future energy needs, and current electric and fossil fuel costs. TM will coordinate meetings with stakeholders, host community conversations, and facilitate leadership education regarding potential renewable and sustainable energy strategies such as solar, micro-grid systems, geothermal, wave energy, etc. TM will also engage youth mentees and adult mentors in strategy planning, education, and hands on projects during the week leading up to the Beaver Island Sustainability Fair.

Walloon Lake Association and Conservancy Grant Amount: $5,000
A primary focus of Walloon Lake Association & Conservancy's (WLAC) most recent Strategic Plan is elevating and accelerating conservation efforts via community engagement. Through their boat cleaning station initiative, they are targeting local residents, visitors to the area, and all recreational boat users. Grant funds will help WLAC purchase a permanent boat cleaning station in Charlevoix County, which will be a solar-powered, high-pressure air cleaning system. These units include a vacuum for removing water from bilges and live wells, tongs, plug wrench, cleaning brush, and data collector to track usage metrics. The station will be used to clean boats coming in and out of Walloon Lake to prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species by removing plant and animal particles before moving the watercraft from one lake to another.

Boyne City Area

Concord Academy Boyne Grant Amount: $4,400

Concord Academy Boyne (CAB) is a K-12 charter school in Boyne City that focuses on small class sizes and providing enriching learning experiences. Grant funding will allow the school to travel to Ohio to witness a total solar eclipse, which will be a unique experience for all, and perhaps a once-in-a-lifetime experience for some, as many of the students have never traveled outside of Northern Michigan. Students will hypothesize the effects of the eclipse beforehand and then test their scientific hypothesis during the eclipse to see what actually happens. Grant funds will help provide this opportunity for CAB middle school students.

Boyne Area Skate Park Grant Amount: $4,500

Boyne Area Skate Park is working to provide a safe, permanent, concrete, well-maintained skate park for local youth and adults in the Boyne City area. Research indicates that youth who are not active in extracurricular sports are more likely to engage in promiscuous/dangerous behavior. This park will offer youth who prefer independent activity an opportunity to be active and physically challenge themselves as well as find safety and connection in the community. Grant funds will help to produce construction documents, which is the next step toward construction of the park.

City of Boyne City Grant Amount: $2,500

In honor of their 100-year anniversary, the Boyne City Rotary Club is erecting a picnic pavilion at Peninsula Beach in Boyne City. This pavilion will provide beach-goers the opportunity to have some shade, get out of the rain, or have a picnic under cover and off the ground. Construction of the picnic pavilion started in 2022 and while they have completed the site work, foundation, and construction of the pavilion including the roof, increased costs of materials caused delays. To complete the project, grant funds will help to purchase and install the ceiling, siding, and cupola and to restore the site around the building.

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Beaver Island

Beaver Island EMS Grant Amount: $23,816

Grant funding will allow Beaver Island EMS to purchase the Philips Tempus Pro, a new cardiac monitor. Their current cardiac monitors are becoming obsolete. The manufacturer no longer services the existing units, and BI EMS must buy AED pads through a third party since they are no longer in production. The equipment this grant would allow BI EMS to purchase is tailored to address the unique challenges of rural settings, empowering local emergency medical services to deliver accurate diagnoses, precise treatments, and proactive interventions, thus enhancing their capacity to manage a diverse range of medical scenarios in remote locations.

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Charlevoix Area

Charlevoix Historical Society Grant Amount: $9,000

Charlevoix Historical Society has an obligation to protect and preserve the iconic structures of Charlevoix: the Museum at Harsha House, the Train Depot, and the South Pier Lighthouse, as well as their collections. Grant funds will replace the roof at the Train Depot in order to restore and preserve the building’s historic value and place in the larger Charlevoix cultural and historical communities. Replacement will also protect the building’s interior, exhibit space, and the artifacts displayed and stored there.

Rotary Club of Charlevoix Charities, Inc. Grant Amount: $10,000

The Rotary Club of Charlevoix actively seeks unique opportunities to meet the needs of local youth that are not being addressed by other entities. When they learned that a playground at Mt. McSauba was listed as a high priority project for youth in the City of Charlevoix’s Master Plan, but was as yet unfunded, they got to work. Grant funds will help the Rotary Club to build and install a new playground at Mt. McSauba in Charlevoix.

Charlevoix Circle of Arts Grant Amount: $3,000

The Charlevoix Circle of Arts (CCA) has been a cornerstone of the local arts scene, serving the Charlevoix community for 15 years by offering a diverse array of exhibitions, workshops, and programs. The gallery space is the heart of their organization, serving as a platform for artists, a place of inspiration for the community, and an educational resource for individuals of all ages. However, this space is in dire need of upgrades to continue fulfilling its vital role. Grant funds will help support upgrades in art-hanging infrastructure, lighting, and signage.

Charlevoix Area Community Pool Grant Amount: $2,450

The Charlevoix Area Community Pool's (CACP) mission is to provide a wide range of aquatic programs promoting health, fitness, recreation and water safety. They provide swim lessons, water safety classes, lifeguard classes, and a wide-range of water activities including Aqua Exercise classes, open swim, and Independent Adult Fitness pool times. To keep things running smoothly, the CACP will use funds to replace outdated equipment such as computers, a storage cabinet, the pool accessible wheelchair, and pool exercise equipment. Additionally, they plan to add new equipment at the front desk that will increase safety for pool staff and volunteers.

Charlevoix Kiwanis Youth Foundation Grant Amount: $3,000

The Kiwanis Club of Charlevoix has a close partnership with the Charlevoix Public Schools to help with reading programs. During the pandemic, the youngest students were greatly impacted by the lack of class interaction and fell behind in reading. They are now in fourth and fifth grades. Additionally, 61% of low-income families do not have children’s books in their homes, which correlates to lower reading scores. Grant funds will help to purchase books for various reading programs including for pre-school and summer school programs, and stocking the book vending machine at Charlevoix Elementary School.

Greensky Hill Indian United Methodist Church Grant Amount: $1,500

Greensky Hill's mission is to remain a sanctuary of love in a setting of natural beauty, preserve a unique Native American heritage, invite people to experience community, and empower people to serve all in need. One of their main priorities is “The Greening of Greensky Hill,” a comprehensive creation care plan that includes carbon-free energy and land protection. Grant funds will help to install a new solar energy system, which will power heating, cooling, food preparation, and air-purification systems that will make available one of the safest gathering spaces in Charlevoix County.

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East Jordan Area

City of East Jordan Grant Amount: $21,000

The Shoe Club and American Legion, in partnership with the City of East Jordan, envision the continuing development of GAR Veterans Park in downtown East Jordan. Grant funds will help with the next phase of this project. Specifically, to construct a pavilion, add signage and a fence around the park, develop landscaping, sidewalks, and add a military relic and irrigation. These developments will add outdoor community gathering space, improve the aesthetic look of the park, and honor heroes; past, present and future.

City of East Jordan Grant Amount: $15,805

A grant to the City of East Jordan Parks Department will fund upgrades to Centennial Park, which currently includes four Pickleball courts. Pickleball is a racket or paddle sport that can be played with either two or four players and has gained popularity over the last several years. The current Pickleball Courts stay full in the summer time with players often waiting to play. Grant funds will help the City to add an additional two courts with fencing and gates in place of the current under-utilized skate park.

Training Wheels Childcare Center Grant Amount: $5,176

The number one goal at Training Wheels Childcare Center is to offer childcare that is nurturing, loving, and gives children the ability to learn, grow and explore in a safe environment. Nurturing children in this way can be messy, and without laundry facilities on site, soiled sheets and clothing are taken home by staff on weekends to be cleaned. This is problematic for meeting the needs of children and the extra hours of working (taking laundry home) contributes to staff burnout. Grant funds will help purchase washing and drying machines for the facility, thus improving quality of care for children and relieving staff of these extra duties so they can focus more fully on “loving them like grandma does.”

Little Traverse Conservancy Grant Amount: $21,000

The Don and Eileen Klein Nature Trail is being constructed as a universally accessible trail connecting Sportsman's Park to the Rogers Family Homestead Nature Preserve in East Jordan. The trail is a true partnership with efforts by the City of East Jordan, the Little Traverse Conservancy, the Friends of the Jordan River Watershed, and the East Jordan Trails Group. Grant funds will help to purchase and install two critical portions of the wetland boardwalk section, the bumpout seating areas, and the overlook access platform.

East Jordan Public Schools Grant Amount: $14,000

East Jordan Public School facilities are a place where students shape their talents, interact with others, and perform for the community. Boswell Stadium, one facility that brings the community together, is in need of some updates and improvements, including replacing the drinking fountain with a water bottle fill station/drinking fountain combo, landscaping to keep kids safe, updated signage on the press box and main entrance, fresh coats of paint, and adding amenities in the locker room for improved conditions for players, coaches, and athletic directors. Grant funding for these upgrades will keep Boswell Stadium in tip top shape and greatly benefit EJPS staff and the community.

East Jordan Public Schools Grant Amount: $14,000

The East Jordan Community Pool provides a source for aquatic programming for all ages. Due to the naturally corrosive environment of a pool, the current metal lockers are no longer functioning as they should, due to rust and corrosion, and need to be replaced with a more resilient material. The new lockers will be made of a plastic composite, which is anti-rust and pool-friendly. Grant funds will support the replacement lockers, which are more user friendly, can withstand water damage, and will hold up over time in the pool environment.

East Jordan Public Schools Grant Amount: $13,514

East Jordan Public Schools has utilized and maintained the current baseball and softball facilities since the early 80’s and that has served the district and community well. However, these fields are in need of some immediate improvements as well as some long term solutions. The biggest immediate need is to update and upgrade the entry to the district’s most well-recognized building: the Middle/High School. Grant funds will help to replace the fence safety toppers, install fence screening in the outfield, and replace the concession stand door.

The Depot Jordan Valley Teen Center Grant Amount: $3,000

Programming at The Depot includes classes, activities, and experiences designed to support teens in their own personal development and obtain the skills needed to achieve their dreams. Grant funds will support the "Life Skills & Culture," track, which includes a series of classes, trips, and experiences that teach art skills using a variety of mediums such as watercolors, mixed media, fabrics, and more. The classes and local field trips will culminate in a Spring 2024 trip to the Detroit Institute of Art where the teens will receive a guided tour and an instructor-led, hands-on activity to learn more about various works of art.

Northern Community Mediation Grant Amount: $1,000

For the past 20 years, NCM has been investing and saving funds to purchase their own property which is now located in Petoskey. Grant funds will help pay for the costs of moving furniture to the new office.

St. James Township Grant Amount: $911

BI residents and visitors need to prepare for emergencies differently than is usually done on the mainland. St. James Township would like to create a tri-fold brochure and flip book to share information such as how calling 911 is different on the Island as well as Charlevoix County resources for assistance. Funds will help to create and distribute informational materials to Island residents and visitors.

Beaver Island Performing Arts Alliance Grant Amount: $1,000

The Baroque on Beaver summer music festival takes place in several venues on BI which requires quickly moving the piano between sites. BIPAA will use grant funds to purchase, insure, and ship a piano moving jack to the Island, so that both the instrument and the movers are protected from harm.

Top of Michigan Trails Council Grant Amount: $1,000

The Leadership Charlevoix County Class of 2023 is working with Top of MI Trails Council to safely connect the Boyne Valley Trailway with the Boyne City to Charlevoix Trail by adding signage to improve trail safety and navigation. Grant funding will help purchase Boyne City Connection Trailhead signage that will be installed at Veteran’s Park in Boyne City.

East Jordan Public Schools Grant Amount: $1,000

EJPS has initiated a new course called “Here to Out There” (H2O) Class for high achieving 3rd through 8th graders where students help spearhead initiatives that will help to address youth mental health concerns by developing a positive group identity and fostering the development of problem-solving and leadership skills. Grant funds will provide support for the 40 students to participate in a teambuilding day at Camp Daggett's Adventure Center, building communication, problem solving skills, and trust among the group.

Charlevoix Kiwanis Youth Foundation Grant Amount: $350

To ease the transition from Elementary School to High School, the Kiwanis club plans to provide graduating 6th grade students with “The Playbook: 52 Rules to Aim, Shoot, and Score in This Game Called Life” that helps provide inspiration and encouragement. Grant funds will help purchase books.

Child Abuse Prevention & Education Council Grant Amount: $1,000

The Charlevoix and Emmet County C.A.P.E. Council is returning to an in-person annual spring conference to support the prevention of child abuse and neglect in our area by addressing current mental health needs. Funds will support the conference and bringing in relevant speakers.

Jordan Valley Public Safety Employee Association Grant Amount: $612

EJ Ambulance Association needs a wall mount in their primary ambulance for the LUCAS - a life saving device used to deliver chest compressions during CPR - to ensure the safety of crew/patients and prevent any possible damage to the device itself ($20k). Grant funds will go toward the purchase of the mounting system.

Boyne City Preschool Grant Amount: $3,800

There are three large, dead trees on BC’s playground that need to be removed ASAP to ensure safety on the playground for students and staff. Grant funds will help pay for professional tree removal.

Northwest Michigan Habitat for Humanity Grant Amount: $1,000

NW MI Habitat for Humanity is requesting funds to help them replace the summer tires on their construction truck, which also doubles as their plow truck in the winter. Grant funds will go toward tire purchase.

Boyne Area Skate Park Grant Amount: $1,000

A geotechnical report is required prior to design development of Boyne Area Skate Park (BASP) in order to ensure the land is suitable for this type of project. Grant funds will help BASP to complete the survey.

Boyne Arts Collective Grant Amount: $1,000

BAC is planning a Holiday Artisan Market and needs more display platforms and pedestals for this event and others. Grant funds will help BAC purchase materials to build these displays.

Beaver Island District Library Grant Amount: $500

The Beaver Island District Library is participating in the national Collaborative Summer Library Program to engage kids in summer reading and activities. Registered kids receive a grab and go bag loaded with activities, crafts, and books. Grant funds will provide books for the 30 kids signed up for the program.

Kiersten's Ride Grant Amount: $1,000

After an unexpected increase in printing costs for materials necessary to continue to provide suicide prevention information to the community, Kiersten's Ride has determined it would be more efficient to purchase their own printer and supplies. Grant funds will help purchase printing equipment.

Charlevoix Historical Society Grant Amount: $1,000

CHS’ iconic white pergola at the formal Depot Heritage Garden is a major feature and attraction for visitors to relax and take photos while on their walks to the beach and garden. Water damage to the pergola needs repaired, and it needs a fresh coat of paint. Grant funds will help pay for these repairs to be made by a professional contractor.

Beaver Island District Library Grant Amount: $500

The BIDL is trying to address the gap in organized activities for babies and toddlers on BI by providing a weekly activity to promote early literacy, socialization, and parent support. Grant funds will be used to purchase books for storytime and supplies for sensory play.

Charlevoix Area Community Pool Grant Amount: $700

To make the CACP 100% ADA accessible, they need a new wheelchair with larger wheels to help clients with mobility concerns to access the pool via the ramp. Grant funds will purchase a pool wheelchair.

Boyne City Public Schools Grant Amount: $500

In August of 2023, C3F held a special event to welcome new President, Sara Ward, and to reintroduce the entire C3F team to the community, since many staff members were new or had changed roles. At the event, attendees each wrote the name of a favorite nonprofit organization serving Charlevoix County and at the end of the event, one name was chosen to win a $500 grant. The Boyne City Early Learners program was the winner of that grant.

BASES Grant Amount: $5,000

First responders have extremely stressful jobs. BASES began providing them with acute crisis counseling services in 2020 to positive reviews. The funding had run out, but the need has not. BASES proposed continuing the crisis counseling, to reduce first responders' trauma response, reduce their long-term stress, and increase their job retention. This grant allowed BASES to continue providing services while also working to identify new funding sources to sustain the program.

Serenity House Alano Club Charlevoix, Inc. Grant Amount: $2,000

The Serenity House - Alano Club of Charlevoix hosts self-help groups year-round, in person and via Zoom, for people of all ages who struggle with addictions. They typically see over 150 different people each week, with an increase of over 500 people per week during the busy summer months. As our population ages and is reflected similarly in the participants at the Charlevoix Alano Club, there are more concerns for on-site cardiac arrests. Now that they are hosting more in-person activities they wanted to complete a previous plan to have an AED machine on location. This grant helped them purchase the AED unit and provide trainings for volunteers and program participants.

Manna Food Project Grant Amount: $15,000

The Manna Food Project is fighting food insecurity in Charlevoix County by offering the Food 4 Kids backpack program. In 2022, Manna distributed 20,280 backpacks to children in need in Charlevoix County. In 2023, there was an increased need for funding for this program, partly because Manna has expanded the Food 4 Kids program throughout the summer months by partnering with the Boyne and Charlevoix Libraries to distribute the backpacks when kids aren't in school. The Manna Food Project will use grant funds to continue offering the backpacks of food all year round. Recently, Manna has taken steps to improve the nutritional value of the food included in the backpacks by including ready-to-eat, shelf-stable items, reducing the amount of sugar, and adding protein to the bags. More nutritious food is also more expensive to source. Each backpack costs about $5 each and contains 12 items. Manna expects to distribute at least 21,000 backpacks in 2023 throughout Charlevoix County.

St. James Township Grant Amount: $9,000

St. James Township participated in an emergency exercise last spring, hosted by the Charlevoix County Sheriff Department with support from 10 other local, state, and federal agencies (the US Coast Guard was a lead agency). The emergency exercise involved 100+ officials and numerous island-based volunteers. The goal of the exercise was to test the mainland's emergency response to a major incident on Beaver Island. Emmet County's Sheriff and 911 mobilized to help on the Island as needed but also covered for the mainland portion of Charlevoix County given the absence of county-based first responders on the mainland. The test was called "Beaver Island Maritime Resolve" given the access issues to a remote populated island. Funds helped support feeding, housing, and transporting people to participate in this important event. The exercise revealed weaknesses that the first responder agencies are now working to address.

Beaver Island EMS Grant Amount: $3,750

Beaver Island EMS has a goal of continuing to improve emergency medical care and response for the residents of Beaver Island. Due to their remote location, it can be challenging for other EMS agencies to respond in the event of a multi-casualty incident, so it’s best to be prepared. A good triage system is essential in emergency medicine as it allows healthcare providers to prioritize patients based on their medical needs. Additionally, BIEMS transports all patients via air ambulance to the mainland for continuing emergency care, as required by Michigan state law. The air ambulance is extremely loud, and communication with other crew members, the patient, or their family is extremely difficult. Grant funds helped to purchase both the triage kit and the wireless headsets to improve emergency medical care and response for BI residents. Having the ability to communicate with wireless headsets allows the EMS team to communicate more effectively with all crew members, the patient, and their family and has been greatly appreciated by all parties.

Child and Family Services of Northwestern Michigan Grant Amount: $4,000

There are many pressures (financial and emotional) on foster families as they care for youngsters who have been neglected and/or abused. Challenges can include caring for children with severe emotional or behavioral characteristics. Retaining foster families can be challenging. When a licensed home closes, there is a gap for the safe and healthy placement of children. Providing support for urgent needs in existing foster homes will improve the quality of life for those foster children and youths, and ease pressure on the families, potentially lengthening their stay in a home. Fewer transitions between homes means fewer traumas, and the chance to build a stable life. Grant funds helped CFS address urgent needs for foster and adoptive children and families as they arose last year, helping them to maintain or access food, shelter, safety, healthcare, mental health services, transportation, and more.

Health Department of Northwest Michigan Grant Amount: $927

Many SNAP recipients are not aware of the opportunity to access local, healthy foods at farmers markets. Grant funds will help achieve the overarching goal of this proposal - to inform Charlevoix County SNAP participants, through the Health Department of NW MI, about using SNAP and Double Up Food Bucks at local farmers markets. This project increased awareness about access to local healthy foods for recipients of food assistance benefits.

Good Neighbors Food Pantry of Boyne City Grant Amount: $5,000

Good Neighbors Food Pantry has been using a trailer (loaned to them each week by a friend of the pantry) to pick up the weekly 1,800 pounds of food from Manna Food Project in Harbor Springs, to stock the pantry in Boyne City. This trailer was old and in need of major repairs to make it safe for volunteer drivers. Grant funds helped Good Neighbors Food Pantry to purchase a new trailer with a braking system, which will provide the pantry with many years of reliable service.

Northmen Den Youth Pantries Inc. Grant Amount: $7,500

The Round Lake Education Center (RLEC) in Charlevoix County is a court-appointed high school and many of its students are from families who are experiencing food insecurity. So, the Northmen Den Youth Pantries (NDYP) stepped in to provide access to a reliable source of supplemental high-quality food for disadvantaged middle and high school youth and their families. The School-based Pantry Program is a mini-grocery store where students can shop for free brand-name, supplemental, nutritious food. Last year, the RLEC's Youth Pantry provided more than 360 students access to breakfast, lunch, and take-home food for themselves, younger siblings, and other family members from the pantry. Helping students in need is critical. Students can't learn if they are hungry. Grant funds helped to stock the pantry for the school year.

Boyne City Public Schools Grant Amount: $2,400

Boyne City Middle School (BCMS) received support for the Winter Outwear Assistance Program to provide proper outwear for students and families in need. Middle school students still go outdoors for recess and other activities in the winter months. Grant funds will help them meet their goal in 2023 - to be able to provide gear to 50 students and families in the 5th and 6th grade due to growing need.

The Salvation Army Grant Amount: $14,500

The Salvation Army of Petoskey (SA) is seeing a large increase in need caused by pandemic fallout and inflation for low-income individuals, families, and seniors in Charlevoix County. The Emergency Financial Assistance Program (EFAP) provides emergency financial assistance to individuals or families experiencing a financial crisis to provide a safety net to help them regain financial stability by providing assistance with heat, electricity, water, shelter, and other basic needs that threaten a household’s livelihood or an individual's ability to maintain a stable household. Demand for services has continued to increase due to inflation and pandemic fatigue which has ended moratoriums and exhausted emergency resources. Last fiscal year, The SA disbursed $740,000 in emergency financial assistance; up $90,000 from last year’s $650,000 in their tri-county service area. Including case management services provided, the SA is providing nearly triple the annual amount that they were providing pre-Covid. Grant funds are assisting approximately 27-31 households in Charlevoix County.

Ronald McDonald House of Western Michigan Grant Amount: $8,000

When a child experiences a medical crisis, the entire family is affected on a financial, psychological, emotional, and social level. This is where Ronald McDonald House Charities West Michigan (RMHCWM) can intervene to assist families in mitigating as much of that burden as possible. They achieve this through the Family Support Program, which provides a no- cost resting place, the Ronald McDonald House, for caregivers, including comfortable beds, warm meals, snacks, transportation to and from the hospital, toiletries, and engaging activities to keep siblings entertained so families' sole focus can be on the healing journey of their sick child/sibling. Grant funds are used primarily to provide food and transportation to Charlevoix County families in need.

Resort Bear Creek Fire Department Grant Amount: $6,370

Resort Bear Creek Fire Department serves the most populated two thirds of Bay Township in Charlevoix County. Their firefighters play a crucial role in providing immediate assistance during medical emergencies such as cardiac events, where time is of the essence in saving lives. While their dedicated team is well-trained and equipped to handle a range of emergencies, the addition of two AEDs will significantly improve their ability to respond to cardiac incidents, increasing the chances of survival for those affected. Dependable radio communication is also critical to a rapid response in lifesaving efforts. Acquisition of one additional radio will mean all firefighters will be properly equipped. Grant funds helped the department to purchase the mentioned AEDs and radio equipment.

Youth Mental Health

Child Abuse Prevention & Education Council Grant Amount: $3,500

The CAPE Council annual conference held each spring brings nationally recognized speakers to the community to provide education on child development. The conference audience includes educators, nurses, social workers, caregivers, court and law enforcement officials, and anyone working with children and families. Content will address youth mental health, adverse experiences, and dysregulation while also providing strategies for strengthening and creating resiliency for children and families. Grant funds will support the keynote speaker expenses and technology equipment.

Northern Michigan Equine Therapy Grant Amount: $8,500

Northern Michigan Equine Therapy will use grant funds to support the development of a new strategic plan to maximize capacity and better serve youth in the community. NMET plans to identify how they can sustain current donors, clients, and infrastructure, but also explore how they might expand services to meet the increased demand. The new plan will provide guidance and goals for the next 5+ years, especially the ability to maintain services and increase treatment sessions.

Women's Resource Center of Northern Michigan Grant Amount: $20,000

The Women's Resource Center of Northern Michigan (WRCNM) recently purchased a 14,000 square foot building in Petoskey to provide space for program expansion, enhancement, and to bring services together. Grant funds will support building renovation expenses to construct spaces specific to psychosomatic therapies, such as play and art therapy, for child and youth survivors of gender-based violence. The trauma-informed, custom-built space for psychosomatic therapies will expand and enhance mental health services available to child and youth survivors from Charlevoix County.

Child and Family Services of NW MI Grant Amount: $5,000

C hild and Family Services is opening Safe Haven North, a supervised visit and safe child exchange program in Harbor Springs. Safe Haven removes children from parents’ conflict, encourages healthy relationships with both parents, and eliminates a chance for violence to occur during supervised visits and transition times. Grant funds will support funding for the furniture, toys, and games for the Safe Haven North Visit Room to make visits more comfortable, as well as security cameras that are required to offer this service and open the building.

Boyne District Library Grant Amount: $2,230

The Boyne District Library's Youth Services Department plans to hold a Family Dinner Book Club in March 2024. The Family Book Club will meet weekly for four weeks with up to 15 families with elementary aged youth. A dinner, group read aloud, discussion, and craft are included at no cost to families. The books selected focus on a variety of youth mental health topics to show children how to reach out to supportive adults and gives those adults the words and behaviors to use when a child encounters those feelings. Funds will allow every family to go home with a copy of each book read, to encourage further discussion.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of NW MI Grant Amount: $10,500

Big Brothers Big Sisters' (Bigs') mission is to create and support one-to-one mentoring relationships that ignite the power and promise of youth. The program is designed to allow Littles to recognize their capabilities, expand their knowledge of community and the greater world, and find their unique place within it, by providing them with another caring adult. The mentoring relationship results in improved self-confidence, which in turn allows for a significant impact on a child's intellectual, social, emotional and physical well-being. Grant funds will support the one-year costs to establish five mentoring matches in Charlevoix County.

Char-Em ISD - Behavioral Health Department Grant Amount: $6,250

The Char-Em ISD Behavioral Health Department will use grant funding to partner with local schools and community agencies to identify and support the unique cultural and social emotional needs of English Language Learners (ELL) and Indigenous youth through various kits. Social emotional kits for ELL youth will provide tools to help students adjust to a new school environment and find universal ways to connect with school staff. Indigenous comfort kits will provide tools that reflect a trauma-informed space and the importance of culture in healing and emotional wellness. These kits will provide opportunities for staff to learn about, understand and respect other cultures and traditions, which directly correlates to acceptance, safety, identity, and representation for indigenous and ELL youth.

The Depot Jordan Valley Teen Center Grant Amount: $4,900

The Depot will use grant funding to address the anxiety and depression concerns of teens through Metal Health and Wellness programs. The program is multi-faceted with a cohesive, holistic approach that includes classes, programs, and activities, and the relationships that produce a stronger teen, family, and community. Program components include dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) skills or talk therapy workbooks, volunteer training on mental health topics, quarterly dinners with parents, leadership experiences, and yoga and meditation equipment.

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Recreation

Camp Daggett Grant Amount: $1,380

Schools across the Charlevoix-Emmet Intermediate School District have partnered with Camp Daggett staff to facilitate the Positive School Climate Program through the Adventure Education Program. Positive School Climate is synonymous with positive school culture and is integral in shaping the health of the educational environment. A healthy academic culture feeds positive outcomes including academic performance, job readiness, social and emotional development, and safety. Grant funds will replace climbing harnesses and ropes used for the program.

Rotary Club of Charlevoix Charities Grant Amount: $2,500

The Rotary Club of Charlevoix actively seeks unique opportunities to meet the needs of local youth that are not being addressed by other entities. When they learned that a playground at Mt. McSauba was listed as a high priority project for youth in the City's Master Plan but was as yet unfunded, they sprung into action to begin fundraising. Grant funds will help the Rotary Club to build and install a new playground at Mt. McSauba in Charlevoix.

Beaver Island Historical Society Grant Amount: $4,000

Beaver Island Kids Camp is a week of engaging activities for Island youth ages 4-14. Customized programs incorporate cultural themes of the Beaver Island Community, such as Native American storytelling & crafts, the natural environment, outdoor hikes, the pollinator garden, and a family community day. Camp participants develop an understanding of the local wildlife, create artwork, sing and dance, and engage in outdoor play activities. Grant funds will offset the cost of planning Kids Camp for staff, youth counselors, and the youth camp leaders.

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Education

Char-Em ISD STEM Grant Amount: $5,000

The Char-Em Street STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) program brings experiences and materials, such as coding, robotics, direction following, problem solving, circuits, measuring, and much more, to schools, teachers, and students. The program allows teachers to learn alongside students and explore new ways to incorporate STEM learning experiences in their classrooms to accomplish a learning target. Magnets can be a challenging concept to learn and teach without physical objects students can use, so grant funds will help to purchase magnetic levitation train kits for 3rd grade classrooms in Charlevoix County.

Power Book Bags Grant Amount: $2,000

PoWeR! Book Bags works to increase access to language, print, and literacy materials in the homes of children from primarily low-income families. The bags provide brand new books and materials for playing, writing, and reading, as well as resources on children’s growth and development. Families are establishing book reading routines, reading more frequently to their children, playing/engaging with the materials and suggested games, and strengthening their overall relationships/bonds. Grant funds will help to purchase the items and materials to assemble the PoWeR! Book Bags.

Planned Parenthood of Michigan Grant Amount: $8,000

Planned Parenthood of Michigan will use grant funding to provide in-school sexual health education programs in Charlevoix Middle High School as well as East Jordan Middle and High School. They will also recruit high school youth to participate in focus groups that ask youth directly about the gaps they are facing in accessing sexual health information. The focus group results will inform adult education events for supportive adults to break down the stigma and silence between youth and adults so that supportive, trusting, and honest conversations can happen more fluidly and frequently.

East Jordan Public Schools Grant Amount: $6,000

As part of the "EJ Honor and Service" project, Shoe Club seeks to connect local GAR Park history to an end of the school year trip to Gettysburg Military Park. Grant funds will be used to support lodging costs for the 30 Shoe Club members. The purpose of this trip is to teach students about the Civil War and the impact veterans have made by exposing them to various historical programs, exhibits, battlefields, and presentations in Gettysburg. The trip will promote teamwork, critical thinking, and reflection among Shoe Club members as they walk the battlefields and tour museums.