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Discover grant opportunities in Jackson, MI! Support local non-profit organizations and explore scholarship options with the Jackson Community Foundation. Apply Today! GRANTS Grant opportunities are available to Jackson County, Michigan: 501(c)3 Nonprofits Governmental Agencies School Districts Churches Community Groups Out of County organizations serving Jackson County Competitive grant funding comes from our Community Needs Fund which includes many named unrestricted funds from individuals and families that chose the Jackosn Community Foundation in their giving plans. We honor the following individuals that chose to support our community in perpetuity: Named Unrestricted Funds GRANT REPORT 2024 ALL GRANTS IN ALPHA ORDER 2023 ALL GRANTS IN ALPHA ORDER MEDIA LIST & PRESS RELEASE INFORMATION COMMUNITY NEEDS ENDOWMENT FUND GRANTMAKING PRIORITY, AIMS, AND GUIDELINES GRANT RESOURCES: Program Grant Budget Operational Grant Budget Sample Financials You Matter Grant for Driver's Education The You Matter Fund, a component fund of the Foundation, is hosting a grant round focused on driver's training for students. The grant will give low-income students access to Driver's Training programs. Eligibility: 501(c)3 nonprofit organizations and school districts providing Driver's Training programs for students in Jackson County, Michigan. Grant Amount: Up to $5,000 Deadline: Currently not accepting applications Youth Impact Grant The Youth Advisory Committee (YAC) is a youth-focused and youth-administered grant committee within the Jackson Community Foundation. YAC addresses the needs of youth in Jackson County by awarding grants to community organizations that benefit youth. At the same time, it provides the students involved in the program an opportunity to volunteer their time and talents to better their community while developing philanthropic leadership skills and valuable experience. Eligibility: 501(c)3 nonprofit organizations, school districts, churches and units of government impacting youth in Jackson County, Michigan for youth related programs and projects Grant Amount: Up to $3,000 Deadline: Currently not accepting applications Teachers Fund Teachers Fund was established in 1992 with a grant from the Hurst Foundation. Grant proposals are reviewed by an advisory committee consisting of educators representing public and private schools in Jackson County. The Teachers Fund is dedicated to rewarding creative and innovative K-12 (public, private and home school) classroom educational projects up to $3,000.The Teachers Fund is dedicated to rewarding creative and innovative K-12 classroom educational projects. Grant Amount: Up to $3,000 Deadline: Currently not accepting applications Community-Building Grants The Jackson Community Foundation (JCF) focuses a small amount of grantmaking dollars each year to support local community-building events that also align with our Mission, Vision, Values, and our Community Needs Endowment Fund Grantmaking Priority, Aims, and Guidelines. Grant Amount: Typically between $200 - $500 Deadline: September 30, 2026 at 5PM or until all funds are spent. APPLICATION Systems Change The Jackson Community Foundation will support coalitions of organizations actively and authentically collaborating with Jackson County’s most economically challenged communities and neighborhoods and working together to find solutions to our most persistent and complex problems. We are looking to support systems change efforts that align with one or more of our “Grantmaking Aims”: We Are Healthy We Reach Our Full Potential We Live in a Socially Just Community We Are Safe Our Basic Needs Are Met Grant Amount: Up to $35,000 Deadline: June 30, 2026 at 5PM APPLICATION Communities in Action Purpose: To support the determination and passion of Jackson County’s grassroots, “boots on the ground,” community-based organizations, neighborhood groups, etc. that help residents actively join together to improve their city block, neighborhood, or community. Eligibility: Grassroots, community-based organizations, or neighborhood groups that meet several criteria. Grant Amount: up to $3,000 Deadline: Currently not accepting applications Jackson Young Professionals This Fund was created with collaborative grants from the Consumers Energy Endowment Fund, the Asset Map Special Project Fund and the President’s Discretionary Fund, all component funds of the Foundation. The Jackson Young Professionals grew out of the Anchor Initiative, a program that supports living, buying and innovating in downtown Jackson. The group was established to promote social & career development as well as encourage community outreach and volunteerism. Grant focus are programs designed to improve the quality of life for Jackson County residents. Eligible Applicants: Nonprofit 501(c)3 organizations serving Jackson County, Michigan Grant Amount: Up to $1,000 Deadline: Currently not accepting applications I Love My Community Grant The "I Love My Community Endowment Fund" was established in memory of Barbara Ramp. "My grandmother, Barbara Ramp, was one of the most genuine, giving people I have ever known. While thinking about setting up this fund I was reminded of her generous spirit," said Carolyn Moser, Fund Representative. Does your nonprofit organization have a great idea? If so, the "I Love My Community Endowment Fund" wants to hear all about it! Grant Amount: Up to $1,000 Deadline: Currently not accepting applications YAC Youth Mental Health Grant The Youth Advisory Committee (YAC) is a youth-focused and youth-administered grant committee within the Jackson Community Foundation (JCF). The MiPHY survey is administered to 7th, 9th, and 11th grade students every other year. This county-wide survey showed youth mental health is a top concern, so YAC dedicates its yearly grant round to funding mental health projects for Jackson County youth. Eligible Applicants: 501(c)3 nonprofit organizations, school districts, churches and units of government impacting youth mental health in Jackson County, Michigan Grant Amount: Up to $3,000 Next Grant Round: December 2026 So All Youth Can Play Sports This grant round made possible by the Wirebaugh Family Youth Sports Fund. "Our family has always been active in sports, both participating and watching, and feel these activities contribute to becoming a successful, well-rounded person. It helps keep kids out of trouble and some companies like to hire those kids who have played sports because they have learned how to get along with others and become team players." -The Wirebaugh Family To support youth (up to age 18) of Jackson County, Michigan in their active participation in sports, whether organized by schools, youth leagues, or local nonprofits. These grants are intended to help youth to participate in sports who may not otherwise be able to afford to play. Grant Amount: Up to $500 Deadline: Until all fund are spent APPLICATION YAC Mini-Grant The YAC Mini-Grant program accepts K-12 student written grants for classroom projects. This unique program originated here at JCF and is now replicated around the state. Designed to introduce the concept of a community foundation and our work, students complete a grant proposal and budget. Funds can be used for materials, projects or programs that benefit youth, encourage volunteerism and enhance the school environment. Grant Amount: Up to $500 Deadline : Open through March 2026 To Apply: Email mnorris@jacksoncf.org for an application Program & Operational Support Grants The Jackson Community Foundation is awarding Operational Support and Program grants to cover the short-term operating needs of 501(c)3 nonprofit organizations and the programmatic expenses of 501(c)3 nonprofit organizations, school districts, and governmental entities serving Jackson County. Grant Amount: Up to $20,000 Deadline: March 2, 2026 at 5PM *For Program Budget, Operational Budget, and Sample Financials, please see Grant Resources above. APPLICATION

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Explore the Jackson Community Foundation's mission to uplift our community with endowment funds, scholarships, and grant opportunities in Jackson, MI. The Results are In! Check out our Annual Report Calendar! DONATE NOW ABOUT US The Jackson Community Foundation, a nonprofit with over 70 years of service to our community! Since 1947, we have been working hard to make Jackson an even better place to live and work. Together, we can make a difference. DONATE Our Donate portal shares fund information. We welcome suggestions. JCF prioritizes donors and community by managing gifts effectively. SCHOLARSHIPS To learn more about any of our scholarship history, eligibility requirements, or to donate to an individual scholarship GRANTS Grant opportunities are available to Jackson County, Michigan: 501(c)3 Nonprofits Governmental Agencies School Districts Churches Community Groups Out of County organizations serving Jackson County

Get involved with Jackson Community Foundation! Find news on local non-profits, community endowment funds, and scholarship and grant opportunities in Jackson. The Class of 1985 Scholarship: Supporting the Students Who Don’t Always Get Seen What kind of student were you? Maybe you were the one who believed anything less than a 4.0 GPA meant you were falling behind. Maybe school never felt like your place, and you found your strengths outside the classroom, learning skills that don’t show up on a transcript. Or maybe, like so many others, you were somewhere in between, wishing your value wasn’t measured solely by grades, but by the full story of who you were becoming. Read Full Story> Donor-advised Funds Combat Local Food Instability When SNAP benefits were paused nationwide late last year, the effects were felt quickly in Jackson County. Local food pantries saw shelves thinning just as more families were walking through their doors, searching for reliable access to nutritious meals. Recognizing the urgency of the moment, the Jackson Community Foundation issued a call for help in the fall. “Due to recent budget cuts and the federal government shutdown, many food banks and pantries are struggling to meet increasing demand with fewer resources,” the Foundation shared. With South Michigan Food Bank supplying many of Jackson County’s pantries, support for its work became critical to ensuring families did not go without healthy food options. Read Full Story> Welcome to Our Site What kind of student were you? Maybe you were the one who believed anything less than a 4.0 GPA meant you were falling behind. Maybe school never felt like your place, and you found your strengths outside the classroom, learning skills that don’t show up on a transcript. Or maybe, like so many others, you were somewhere in between, wishing your value wasn’t measured solely by grades, but by the full story of who you were becoming. Students with high GPAs and test scores often receive the bulk of scholarship support. Recognizing this imbalance, Daniel Herbert and Dr. Susan Holmes‑Walker set out to create something different: a scholarship designed for the kind of student who may not qualify for traditional academic awards, but who has the drive, character, and potential to thrive after high school. “I was an a***** in high school,” Daniel says, “I was more of a ‘Let’s skip class and go to the Roxy for breakfast’ kind of student.” His high school years ended in an unexpected way, and that experience stayed with him. Wanting to make a difference for a student who might be walking a similar path, he reached out to his classmate, Dr. Susan Holmes‑Walker. Together, they envisioned a scholarship that would support a graduating senior planning to pursue education after high school, whether through a traditional college, a trade program, or a technical school. Daniel and Susan began fundraising among their classmates, sharing their vision for a scholarship that valued determination and potential over perfect grades. Their classmates responded with enthusiasm. Over time, the Class of 1985 raised more than $25,000, enough to establish an endowed fund at the Jackson Community Foundation. The scholarship was officially launched in October 2025. The goal was simple but powerful: to support a student who might otherwise be overlooked. For Daniel, this work is deeply personal. “If we can help just ONE young person like me improve themselves and either get out of Jackson or (better yet) stay there and make a difference, then it’s worth it.” The Class of 1985 Scholarship is more than financial assistance. It’s a message to students who don’t see themselves reflected in honor rolls or award ceremonies. It’s a reminder that potential isn’t limited to those with perfect transcripts. And it’s a tribute to the teachers, administrators, and classmates who shaped the Class of 1985 in ways that went far beyond academics. By investing in students who need a different kind of support, the Class of 1985 is helping open doors and honoring the belief that every student’s story matters. Read More Check out our 2024 results!

January 2026 Newsletter February 2026 Newsletter

Build your legacy today! Support local non-profit organizations and explore scholarship and grant opportunities with the Jackson Community Foundation in Jackson, MI. CREATE YOUR FUND CREATE YOUR LEGACY Our Funds are tailored to you and what you wish to accomplish. We have options from having no involvement at all to more hands-on involvement in grantmaking. It's your choice. And whatever you choose, ALL funds provide the opportunity to create a lasting legacy that carries on your name or the name of a loved one. FUND OPTIONS GIVING WORKSHEET DO YOU WANT TO SIMPLIFY YOUR GIVING WHILE MULTIPLYING YOUR IMPACT? Consider the Community Needs Fund. COMMUNITY NEEDS FUND DID YOU KNOW THERE IS AN OPTION TO RETAIN YOUR INVESTMENT ADVISOR? Gifts of $250,000 or more may qualify for an Individually Managed Fund allowing you to keep your investment advisor while getting the tax advantages and resources at a community foundation. Please refer to our Individually Managed Funds Policy. If you have any questions, we would be happy to set up a personal meeting. Please call the office or email us today! SIX EASY STEPS TO START YOUR FUND AND LEGACY TODAY! 1. Choose your fund name 2. Choose your fund purpose 3. Select which type of fund 4. Sign a fund agreement describing your charitable intent 5. Make a gift of cash, securities, etc. to establish a fund or provide a gift through a bequest 6. Watch you fund grow by investment and additional contributions CARING FOR OUR COMMUNITY'S FUTURE NEW FUND RESOURCES INVESTMENT ADVISORS Your Partner in Philanthropy Carter Wickwire Society First Codicil Community vs. Private foundations Endowment Fund Policies Donor Advised Brochure Investment Policy Bequest Form COUNCIL OF MICHIGAN FOUNDATIONS RESOURCES Planned Giving Guide Tax Planning Issues Charitable Contributions LEGAL DOCUMENTS Articles of Incorporation Bylaws THE CARTER WICKWIRE SOCIETY CARING FOR OUR COMMUNITY'S FUTURE JCF was founded in 1948 with two special gifts. During World War II, the families of Lt. John L. Carter and Pfc. John Gilbert Wickwire donated proceeds from the life insurance policies in the name of their sons, both of whom lost their lives in battle, to ultimately form the Jackson Community Foundation. The Carter and Wickwire families understood the importance of planning for the future and creating a legacy for their families. By naming the Jackson Community Foundation in your will, you can join a distinctive list of individuals and families who are doing the same. Learn more here THANK YOU MEMBERS Matthew D. and Sharon A. Augustine Jody Bacon Mary Baird Jackie and Jerry Booth Carole Briggs and John Briggs John and Lisa Butterfield Susan Diebold Georgia and Travis Fojtasek Jim and Joyce Grace Mr. Richard Allen Iverson Mary Theresa Mills Family R. Dale Moretz Monica Moser and Steven Trosin Chad Noble Hendrik Schuur Drs. James P. and Wendelyn A. Serino Richard Sigers Al Spiess, Jr. Sandra Svoboda Ric Walton Carlene Walz Lefere Lisa Gaynier and Hap LaRoe

Stay updated on grant opportunities and community endowment funds for local non-profit organizations in Jackson, MI, with our media release for grantees. Grantee Forms & Information Press Release Press releases are a great way to share news about the grant with our community. Please email a press release announcing your grant and your upcoming work to local media. Choose at least one organization from the list that is most relevant to your organization. When sending the release to your local media contacts, we recommend including it in the body of the email instead of as an attachment. Social Media - Spread the Good News! We'd want to publicize your work! If your organization uses Facebook: 1. Like us on Facebook 2. Post your media release and any photos on your page and tag us in your message by adding @jacksoncommunityfoundation. 3. We will then share it on page as well. If your organization does not use social media, now is a great time to consider jumping on board and sharing news with your network! Pictures We love photos! We encourage you to submit photographs to the Foundation that tell the story of how your grant provided for the community. These photos may be used on our website, in annual reports and other appropriate publications which will further publicize the good work of your organization. We welcome digital (preferably high-resolution) or hard copy (which we can scan and send back to you). By sending us a picture, the Foundation will assume you have received permission for use of the photograph for marketing purposes. Logo If you would like to feature our logo on print or online materials relating to your grant, we would be happy to provide you with a high-resolution file. Please contact our Marketing & Communicatons Director, Lisa McDaniel, at lmcdaniel@jacksoncf.org . Include a note briefly describing the materials and how you plan to feature the logo, and she will send you the file Media List

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Learn about the Myer and Lois Franklin Scholarship, fostering educational access for all in Jackson, MI, through the Jackson Community Foundation. Myer and Lois Franklin Scholarship Myer and Lois Franklin, life long residents of Jackson, Michigan, were highly appreciative of the success they enjoyed as a result of the opportunities afforded them in the Jackson community. In order to give back to others, they chose to leave a legacy of education. As strong believers in the powe r of education, the Myer and Lois Franklin Charitable Trust was established to be utilized as a vehicle for providing scholarships to residents of Jackson County. The ability to give back to the community and the right to an education for all was of extreme importance to the Franklins. They created the trust to provide scholarships embracing all members of the Jackson community no ma tter what their background in an effort to promote acceptance and access to education to those seeking same. All s cholarship recipients are expected to be a role model for the Jackson community and to demonstrate the qualities and perform the activities which enabled them to be selected as an outstanding scholarship recipient. Application Deadline: When we receive 200 completed applications or February 12, 2025, whichever comes first. Eligibility Requirements: Resident of Jackson County, Michigan Those enrolled in the Jackson County Early College may apply in their 13th year of after Previous recipients are encouraged to reapply, however renewal is not guaranteed Renewable: Yes Scholarship Award: Between $1,000 - $5,000 Scholarship Use: Tuition and fees Application