What are you most proud of in 2018? What are you striving for or working toward in 2019? The end of the year is a time for reflection, but also for dreaming and hoping. 

Here at Grand Rapids Community Foundation, we've spent the last year working on continuing to become a convener and connector. We've revamped ways that we engage with and listen to community voice. We've reconsidered our resource allocation model. We've discovered new ways to live into our North Star. But, the work is not over yet! 

We've asked some of our friends to share their hopes and dreams for 2019 and would love for you to join in. Connect with us on social media (@GRCommFound) and let us know what your wish for our community in 2019 is! We know that hopes and dreams aren't enough - we need to work together to make these dreams reality. We look forward to working side by side with you in 2019 to build and sustain an inclusive economy and thriving community for all. 

My wish for our community in 2019 is…

One of my hopes for 2019 is that all of us will spend a little more time finding ways to be more involved in our community. The issues that face us often seem overwhelming but I’m reminded that every journey begins with that first step. Every one of us can have an impact on Grand Rapids being a truly thriving community if we step up and try to make a difference. I am optimistic that the best is yet to come!
Laurie Beard, former trustee

Smile, believe in yourself, dreams do come true.
Tennille Harkness, Dream Fund Committee member

In 2019, I hope we can look beyond "single stories." Everyone has a unique culture that can't be fully understood or appreciated from the surface. Continuing to broaden and strengthen our diversity and our community programs would be awesome to see in the coming year.
Christina Vann, Youth Grant Committee member

To believe every child in our community deserves access to a quality learning environment with the technology and tools they need to succeed.
Chi Benedict, Dream Fund Committee member

2019 will hopefully be the year that we can give the most to a community has given so much to us already. Nobody has all the things the city represents but GRCF tries to make everything inclusive and that will not stop in the year to come. The new year will hopefully bring us new people with new experiences.
Antony Pena, Youth Grant Committee member

To have a community that is ready for change, equality, diversity and a positive future.
Jayanna Carter, Dream Fund Committee member

I hope that through the Youth Grant Committee’s grants, resources, and services, organizations who address the needs of Grand Rapids will be affirmed in their work. It’s amazing to witness the impact when a small idea unfolds because it was supported and met with a springboard. I hope that we not only be that springboard but also help others to help one another in turn. I’m excited to see what growth 2019 brings.
Hope Chun, Youth Grant Committee member

To do and achieve the unexpected. My wish for our community is to dream and dream big and believe your dreams can be achieved.
Kiki Gary, Dream Fund Committee member