Mt. Pleasant Area Community Foundation

For good. For ever.

306 South University Avenue Mount Pleasant, MI, 48858 United States

(989) 773-7322

Our mission is to enhance the quality of life for all citizens of Isabella County, now and for generations to come, by attracting and holding permanent endowed funds from a wide range of donors, addressing needs through grant making and providing leadership on key community issues.

Community Foundation Welcomes Communications Associate

May 19, 2020  /  Guest User

Liz Fredendall headshot

The Mt. Pleasant Area Community Foundation (MPACF) welcomes Elizabeth “Liz” (Whittemore) Fredendall to the newly-created role of Communications Associate. Fredendall joined the staff in March and is responsible for the communications, marketing, and public relations functions of the Community Foundation.

Fredendall studied at St. Clair County Community College before transferring to Central Michigan University (CMU) in 2014. After receiving her Bachelor of Science in Photojournalism from CMU, Fredendall worked as a freelance photojournalist for publications such as Epicenter Mt. Pleasant and Catalyst Midland.

“We’re thrilled to expand our team with this position,” said MPACF CEO, Amanda Schafer. “We can lift each other up through positive news, and with a Communications Associate, we are able to tell better, more compelling stories about the amazing things happening in our community.”

Join us in welcoming Fredendall to this new role. She can be reached at liz@mpacf.org.

COVID-19 Community Response

March 16, 2020  /  Guest User

The Mt. Pleasant Area Community Foundation (MPACF) is continuing to actively monitor the status of the Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak and collaborate with partners around anticipated local needs. We’re also gathering insight on how we can continue to support communities through the various phases of this situation, especially for vulnerable populations. We are fortunate to be part of a caring, generous, and resilient community. The health and safety of our partners, staff, and neighbors is always our top priority.

Donations: Administered by the Mt. Pleasant Area Community Foundation, the COVID-19 Community Response Fund for Isabella County will provide flexible resources to organizations in our area working with communities who are disproportionately impacted by COVID-19 and the economic impact of this outbreak.

Community Members volunteering to provide food and supplies
MDHHS COVID-19 hotline image.jpg

Information and Support: We encourage all of our friends to closely monitor updates and review valuable health and safety resources from the State of Michigan, Central Michigan District Health Department, and Centers for Disease Control (CDC). Michigan's Department of Health and Human Services has developed a hotline to answer health-related questions about COVID-19. For non-health related support, we encourage community members to dial 211.

Our Office: Based on recommendations from public health officials related to social distancing, the Hersee House is now closed to the public. We encourage the use of phone and email communications over in-person visits at this time, to help protect our community and stop the spread of the virus. Scholarship application and donation processing will continue.

Investment Strategy: This global health pandemic has led to increased financial market volatility over the past month. COVID-19 uncertainty will continue to affect the financial market outlook. We have been in touch with IPEX and Isabella Bank/FCI, our investment managers, and our Finance Committee. We are monitoring the situation but remain invested for long-term growth and currently plan to maintain our passively managed approach.

Thank you for your support, strength, generosity, and resiliency in these unprecedented times. Stay informed, healthy, and safe.

-Amanda Schafer, CEO

Four Local Nonprofit Leaders Chosen for Leadership Learning Lab

March 13, 2020  /  Guest User

For the third year, several local nonprofit leaders have been selected by the Mt. Pleasant Area Community Foundation to attend an eight month Leadership Learning Lab. Facilitated by NorthSky Nonprofit Network, the Leadership Learning Lab seeks to connect and empower nonprofit leaders and give them the skills to strengthen the organizations and communities they serve. Funded by the Frey Foundation and the Mt. Pleasant Area Community Foundation, the Leadership Learning Lab aligns with the Foundation’s strategic efforts to support capacity building among local nonprofits.

The 2020 emerging leaders are Kim Friedrich, Mike LeValley, Lisa Phelps and Meg Schubert.

Kim Friedrich, Mike LeValley, Lisa Phelps and Meg Schubert with MPACF logo in middle

Kim Friedrich is attending on behalf of Habitat for Humanity of Isabella County, where she has served as Executive Director for two years. She is eager to fine tune her skills as a leader and expand her knowledge of non-profits. She looks forward to strengthening Habitat for Humanity’s relationships within the community by learning to become a more adaptive leader.

Mike LeValley is attending on behalf of the Chippewa Watershed Conservancy, where he has served as Executive Director for the past seven months. He believes the Leadership Learning Lab will directly address the challenges he faces as a new executive director. He is excited for the opportunity to interact and collaborate with other nonprofit leaders so that they might compare experiences and learn from each other.

Lisa Phelps is attending on behalf of the Mt. Pleasant Discovery Museum, where she has served as Executive Director for the past seven months. She is interested in the Leadership Learning Lab helping to find ways to sharpen her leadership skills and gain new insights and ideas about leadership.

Meg Schubert is attending on behalf of the Isabella County Child Advocacy Center, where she has served as Executive Director for the past five months. She hopes the Leadership Learning Lab will advance her strategic decision-making, critical analytical thinking and knowledge of organizational behavior. The resource of the lab will allow the ICCAC to continue to advance its mission, protecting and advocating for the children of our community.

Foundation Announces 2020 Opportunities

January 06, 2020  /  Guest User

The Mt. Pleasant Area Community Foundation (MPACF) is now accepting applications for more than one hundred (100) scholarships. Most are available to local students who will be completing their senior year of high school or GED this spring. There are also more than a dozen scholarship opportunities for students already enrolled in, or planning to return to, some form of higher education. Frequently asked questions and a link to the online application system can be found online. The application deadline is Wednesday, March 4, 2020.

Amanda Schafer and Kaden Campbell
YAC Members check presentation

The Community Foundation is also accepting grant applications for its spring competitive cycle. Applications are due May 20, 2020. Charitable organizations, schools, and units of government may apply. Though all program types are encouraged, the Community Foundation’s Board of Trustees is most interested in ideas that address one of the greatest concerns expressed in Isabella County’s most recent Community Needs Assessment: 1) Lack of jobs that pay enough to live on; and 2) Crime, violence, or bullying. Potential grantees are encouraged to attend a Grantseeker Information Session on Wednesday, January 8, 2020. Contact Program Officer Jaimie Capen-Cascaddan at (989) 773-7322 to register for the 10:00 am or the 3:00 pm session. Both will last approximately 2 hours. For more information on grant eligibility, and ways to support the endowed funds that make these grants possible, explore our website.

Finally, the Community Foundation is pleased to be partner with the Frey Foundation and NorthSky Nonprofit Network to present the 2020 Leadership Learning Lab. Emerging leaders heading Isabella County charitable organizations are eligible to apply for the 9-month opportunity designed to connect and empower nonprofit leaders and give them the skills to strengthen the organizations and communities they serve. Board approval and a $100 participation fee are required if selected. Contact Program Officer Jaimie Capen-Cascaddan for an application. Applications are due Friday, January 31, 2020.

John and Judy Williams Challenge Shepherd Community

October 04, 2019  /  Guest User

John and Judy Williams

Fifth generation resident John Williams feels strongly about Shepherd, Michigan, and he is ready to show it. Along with his wife, Judy, Williams has issued a challenge to fellow community members. The couple will match all gifts, dollar for dollar up to $30,000, made to the Shepherd Community Fund or the Shepherd Public Schools Scholarship Fund at the Mt. Pleasant Area Community Foundation.

The Shepherd Community Fund was established in 1998 in honor of Robert H. Bates, an active and beloved resident of Shepherd who passed away in 2008 at age 99. For the last twenty years, an advisory board has worked to raise approximately $200,000 in support of the Shepherd community—holding a Spring Dinner and a Fall Reverse Raffle. Both a former teacher and business owner, John Williams has been part of that group.

The Shepherd Community Fund is endowed, so grants are awarded solely from the interest earned on the invested capital. Grants are made in three cycles each year as part of a competitive process facilitated by Mt. Pleasant Area Community Foundation staff and Shepherd Community Fund advisory board volunteers. All grants made from the Fund have benefited the Shepherd community. To date, 58 grants have been made, totaling more than $60,000. The Fund has awarded several grants over the years to the Village, Shepherd Public Schools, and the Police Department. They also help with the Shepherd After Prom Party each year and projects such as Wishing for a Washer, the Shepherd Santa House, and the restoration project for the Little Red School House Museum.

The Shepherd Public Schools Scholarship Fund was established in 1995 and was one of the very first endowed scholarship funds started in the county. Shepherd community members, businesses and local organizations have contributed nearly $50,000 to this Fund over the years. Scholarships have been awarded to graduating seniors from Shepherd Public Schools who have been active community volunteers, exhibiting outstanding attitude toward school and community. They must have maintained a 3.0 minimum grade point average as well. This past spring, the 48th, 49th, and 50th scholarships were awarded. The recipients are now using their scholarships to further their education at a college, university, technical or vocational school.

Because of the capital invested in the Shepherd Community Fund and the Shepherd Public Schools Scholarship Fund, there remains a balance in both endowments greater than the sum of money contributed to them.

“I like to see things happen in our little town,” Williams said. “And this challenge is a way to encourage other people in the area to help.”

Community members may contribute to either endowment fund at the Community Foundation through December 31, 2019 in order to take advantage of the Williams’ match offer. Donations may be made at mpacf.org, and checks may be mailed to MPACF, PO Box 1283, Mt. Pleasant, MI 48804.

Community Foundation Welcomes New Program Officer

August 19, 2019  /  Guest User

Jaimie Capen-Cascaddan

The Mt. Pleasant Area Community Foundation welcomes Jaimie Capen-Cascaddan to the role of Program Officer. Mrs. Capen-Cascaddan will be responsible for managing the Foundation’s grantmaking and scholarship activities. She will serve as a resource for local nonprofits, schools, and units of government interested in pursuing funding through the Foundation, as well as assist local students applying for funds to continue their education. In addition, she will provide support for nonprofit capacity building and community leadership initiatives undertaken by the Foundation.

A Central Michigan University alumna and resident of the Great Lakes Bay Region, Mrs. Capen-Cascaddan has previous nonprofit experience working with Leader Dogs for the Blind and the Michigan Humane Society. Prior to moving back to the region, she worked for the Muscular Dystrophy Association.

“We’re thrilled that Jaimie moved back to the area,” said CEO Amanda Schafer. “Her knowledge of charitable work and passion for our local community make her an excellent fit here at the Community Foundation.”

Mrs. Capen-Cascaddan begins training this month, and takes over for former Program Officer Brittany Sherrill. “Brittany did an outstanding job for the Foundation,” said Schafer. “The Trustees and I are grateful for her dedication over the last three years and wish her well in her new role at CMU.”

Community Foundation Grants Nearly $60,000

July 17, 2019  /  Guest User

The Mt. Pleasant Area Community Foundation Board of Trustees recently awarded $59,287.14 in grants to organizations making an impact in Isabella County.

Central Michigan University received $3,040 from the Kellogg Youth Fund and Harold and Milli Verleger Family Fund for Connections that Count, a program that supports students with disabilities and their families by providing activities that promote a sense of belonging, build confidence, and improve self-esteem.

Central Michigan University received $650 from the Darlene Bond Memorial Youth Fund to purchase supplies for Family Camp, a program that assists children with behavioral and emotional problems.

Clothing INC received $1,175 from the Staples Family Fund to purchase a safer ladder that will give volunteers access to storage totes on the highest shelves, as well as storage carts that will provide easy access to undergarments and socks for guest shopping.

Grant Recipients with check

Community Compassion Network received $3,000 from the Mt. Pleasant Oil Industry Food Pantry Fund to provide supplemental food to residents in Isabella County.

Cultural and Recreational Commission of Isabella County received $15,000 from the Kellogg Youth Fund, Women's Initiative Fund, and Gail E. Gorton Women in Sports Fund to build a permanent locker room for female athletes at the ICE Arena.

Deerfield Township Fire Department received $6,201.30 from the Rise Family Fund to replace expiring firefighting boots with those that are more resistant to carcinogens and have improved traction on ice and snow.

Eagle Village received $5,000 from the Kellogg Youth Fund and Weisenburger Family Fund to assist families in paying for intervention and counseling service at Eagle Village.

Experimental Aircraft Association Chapter 907 received $2,000 from the Harold and Milli Verleger Family Fund for their Youth Aviation Project. This program empowers youth to build planes alongside skilled mentors, enabling them to develop skills in metal work, wiring, plumbing, reading blueprints, and the use of machinery.

Isabella County Child Advocacy Center grant recipients with check

Isabella County Child Advocacy Center received $879.00 from the Paula Arndt Women's Fund for the Sleep Safe Initiative. The program provides low-income families with a brand new (safety checked) pack-n-play, sleep sack, pacifier, book, video, and educational information on the importance of safe sleep for babies.

Life Choices of Central Michigan received $2,311 from the Fabiano Family Fund to provide new technology and curriculum for the Empower Life Parenting Programs. These programs provide skills and knowledge critical for new parents to give the best care to their babies.

Beal City High School received $1,000 from the Tumbl Trak Fund for Youth Fitness in honor of Doug Davis and Diana Hughes to offset camp and training expenses for their cheer program.

Sacred Heart Academy received $450 from the Tumbl Trak Fund for Youth Fitness in honor of Doug Davis and Diana Hughes to offset camp and training expenses for their cheer program.

BSA Troop 648 received $291 from the Bob and Nancy Wheeler Fund for Scouting to purchase supplies for an Eagle Scout Service Project.

Chippewa Watershed Conservancy received $1,000 from the Optimist Club of Mt. Pleasant Fund for their Wilderness Wanderers and Preschool Preservers programs. These programs promote environmental education among underserved youth, cultivating a love of nature and developing mentor relationships.

MidMichigan Health Foundation grant recipients with check

MidMichigan Health Foundation received $17,289.84 from the Dick and Mary Ellen Brandell Family Hospice House Fund, Bob and Jeanne Long Hospice House Fund, Lon Morey Family Hospice House Fund, Bill and Dolores Myler Hospice House Fund, Dennis and Sandra Olson Hospice House Fund, Jim and Naomi Stark Hospice House Fund, and Bill and Janet Maar Strickler Hospice House Fund to provide for unreimbursed care at Woodland Hospice House.

Applications for the next competitive grant cycle are due September 25, 2019. For more information on grant eligibility, and ways to support the endowed funds that make these grants possible, visit www.mpacf.org.

Community Foundation Welcomes New Directors

July 08, 2019  /  Guest User

The Mt. Pleasant Area Community Foundation is pleased to announce the appointment of two new Directors to its Board: Erika Ross and Mark Smith.

Erika Ross and Mark Smith

Ross is a graduate of Mt. Pleasant High School, Central Michigan University and the Rollie Denison Leadership Institute. She has served the banking industry for the past 18 years, the last 14 of which have been at Isabella Bank where she is currently the Vice President of Operations. Ross is also a graduate of the University of Madison’s Graduate School of Banking and the Dale Carnegie Executive Development Program. She enjoys volunteering her time with Junior Achievement as well as the Mt. Pleasant Public Schools Education Foundation, Women’s Initiative, and the Mt. Pleasant Area Community Foundation’s Scholarship Committee. She lives in Mt. Pleasant with her husband Brian and two sons, Wyatt and Ben.

 “Our Community Foundation has a solid reputation of bringing individuals and groups together to have an impact on our community today as well as into the future,” Ross said. “I look forward to serving on the Board where I can work with other community members to identify present and future needs and solutions that will create a lasting impact on our community.”

Raised in Isabella County, Mark Smith had excellent examples of community involvement and philanthropy in his parents, Brian and Kay (Krapohl) Smith. Mark is General Manager/Partner of Krapohl Ford & Lincoln. He has served on the boards of the Mt. Pleasant Area Chamber of Commerce Board and the Pardee Cancer Treatment Fund; he currently serves on the board of the Renaissance Public School Academy. Mark has represented his parents and grandparents through funds of the Community Foundation, and he and his wife Shelly were the youngest members of the Denison Legacy Society at the time they joined. They have three children (Alec, Samuel, and Hayden) who keep them very busy.

"Mom was very active in so many areas of this community but one of my earliest memories was her passion for the Equal Rights Amendment, which led to her holding organizational meetings in our living room for the creation of the Mt. Pleasant Area League of Women Voters. Dad faced an entirely different type of challenge when he helped create the first recreational Soccer League in Mt. Pleasant and eventually the boys and girls varsity soccer teams at Mt. Pleasant High School," said Mark. "I also watched Shelly work for years, through countless struggles, to help create the Mt. Pleasant Discovery Museum. So I am excited to work with the Community Foundation in their efforts to help people find and fund the causes they love."

Ross and Smith join twenty-one other directors leading the Mt. Pleasant Area Community Foundation, a tax-exempt public charity. Its mission is to enhance the quality of life for all citizens of Isabella County, now and for generations to come, by attracting and holding permanent endowed funds from a wide range of donors, addressing needs through grantmaking and providing leadership on key community issues.

Census 2020: Michigan Nonprofits Count Campaign Grants Available

June 25, 2019  /  Guest User

Background: The Michigan Nonprofits Count Campaign is a collaborative, coordinated, statewide effort to encourage participation in the 2020 census in communities that are at significant risk of being undercounted. Led by the Michigan Nonprofit Association, the campaign will mobilize nonprofits to encourage participation in the 2020 census by:

  • Providing trainings and tools for nonprofits on effective outreach tactics;

  • Assisting nonprofits in identifying historically undercounted communities;

  • Award grants to local nonprofits; and

  • Working with government officials to avoid duplication of efforts and enhance government’s communication and outreach efforts to support a fair and accurate census count.

What’s at Stake: As required by the U.S. Constitution, the federal government conducts the decennial census once every ten years to count the population of the United States. In addition to providing critical demographic data that guides the work of nonprofits, the census:

  • Influences the allocation of more than $14.5 billion dollars annually in federal government resources to communities across the state;

  • Helps state and local officials, community leaders, and nonprofit organizations identify current and future needs for health care, education, housing, food and income security, rural access to broadband, and other services;

  • Determines how many seats Michigan will have in the U.S. House of Representatives and how many electoral votes we will have; and

  • Guides private-sector investment decisions on where to invest in job creation, new facilities and marketing.

The census has historically missed certain communities—communities of color, urban and rural low-income households, immigrants, and young children—at disproportionately high rates. Being undercounted deprives these communities of equal political representation and private and public resources. The 2020 census is especially alarming since there will likely be less follow-up with non-responding households due to the Census Bureau’s change in its model for collecting responses, funding challenges and reduced number of Census Bureau employees at the local level.

Learn more about grants available to local nonprofits to help ensure an accurate count in Isabella County here.

Community Foundation Awards 103 Scholarships

April 30, 2019  /  Guest User

The Mt. Pleasant Area Community Foundation (MPACF) will award 103 scholarships totaling $118,700 to local students during a reception on June 5, 2019. Established by individuals, businesses, and organizations wanting to help local students achieve their educational goals, most scholarships support high school students planning to attend an accredited college, university or trade school in the fall. Each scholarship is unique and reflects the values and interests of those who established it.

For more information, or to support any one of these scholarships, contact Amanda Schafer, Executive Director, at (989) 773-7322 or visit www.mpacf.org.

 

The 2019 Community Foundation Scholarship Recipients are:

The Mt. Pleasant Area Community Foundation seeks to enhance the quality of life for all citizens of Isabella County, now and for generations to come, by attracting and holding permanent endowed funds from a wide range of donors, addressing needs thr…