Branch County Community Foundation

Overview

The Branch County Community Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to enhancing the quality of life in Branch County and Colon, Michigan. Founded in 1991 by a group of individuals affiliated with local Rotary clubs, it aims to foster community generosity and promote sustainable community development.

Mission and Vision

• Mission: The organization seeks to bring together passionate individuals and resources to create lasting positive impacts in the community. It promotes philanthropy, builds endowments, and connects community resources to support local needs.

• Vision: It envisions a prosperous, collaborative, and welcoming community where residents experience a strong sense of belonging and pride, with opportunities for growth and thriving.

Purpose and Activities

The foundation acts as a proactive leader and partner in addressing community needs. It connects donors and community partners to support projects that enhance the quality of life in Branch County. Key activities include:

• Promoting Community Philanthropy: Encourages generosity and giving within the community.
• Building Philanthropic Funds: Manages over 140 funds, offering donors the option to contribute to existing funds or establish new ones.
• Grant Programs: Supports local organizations and residents through its grant initiatives, including the Community Good Grant Program fueled by The Forever Fund.

Financial Performance

In recent years, the foundation's financial activities have included:

• Revenue: Primarily generated from contributions, investment income, and sales of assets. Contributions typically account for a significant portion of total revenue.
• Expenses: Focus on executive compensation, other salaries and wages, with minimal professional fundraising fees.
• Assets and Liabilities: Holds substantial assets while maintaining low liabilities, indicating robust financial health.

Community Engagement

The foundation is committed to equity and inclusion, working with diverse community groups. It also involves younger generations through initiatives like the Youth Advisory Council, which organizes service projects and promotes community engagement.

Types of Funds and Giving Options

Donors can personalize their philanthropy by creating named funds or contributing to existing ones like The Forever Fund, which supports unrestricted grants. This flexibility allows donors to align their giving with specific community needs and goals.

Grant Application Process

The foundation offers structured grant cycles with clear deadlines and guidelines. Applications must be complete and timely to be considered for funding. The process includes staff review and evaluation by a grants committee.