The Shiawassee Community Foundation is actively participating in a nationwide celebration from November 12 to 18, 2023, to acknowledge and highlight the increasingly vital role played by community foundations in fortifying local communities and addressing pressing social issues such as homelessness, polarization, and discrimination.
For well over a century, philanthropic institutions have been steadfast allies and valuable resources, impacting millions’ lives and contributing to the prosperity of vibrant neighborhoods through their mission-driven initiatives. During this annual celebration, community foundations gather to exchange insights and contemplate the impactful stories of their recent endeavors.
Kim Renwick, the Executive Director of ShiaCF, emphasized community foundations’ significant influence, citing their extensive reach, expertise, and established relationships. She expressed a renewed determination to collaborate with partners, fostering innovative and enduring solutions that will contribute to the flourishing of communities.
Community foundations, operating as independent public entities, play a crucial role in managing philanthropic resources sourced from institutional and individual donors. They channel these resources to support local nonprofits, embodying one of the fastest-growing forms of philanthropy. The collective efforts of community foundations, spanning diverse communities, both urban and rural, are poised to make a profound impact as they actively seek solutions to community challenges.
Established in 1989 by former President George H.W. Bush, Community Foundation Week is a dedicated time to recognize the commendable work of community foundations across America. It underscores their collaborative approach in working alongside the public, private, and nonprofit sectors to address and overcome community problems.