The winter issue of PARNTERS in community is a letter of gratitude to you, our partners. Through the twists and turns of 2020, you have been there. You have been showing up for your neighbors, your community and yourselves. We see you. We appreciate you.

Inside you'll read stories of donor partners shaping our community, ways that community philanthropy is being reimagined and redefined, and updates on grant partnerships established by volunteer-led committees. Throughout the entire issue, you'll find inspiring stories of generosity and resilience. Thank you for your part in making this work possible! Read the entire magazine here.

10 Reasons We're Grateful for Your Partnership

The staff and trustees of Grand Rapids Community Foundation could not let this year come to a close without taking a moment to express our deepest gratitude and appreciation for you. Read notes and a short list of just a few of the reasons we are grateful for your partnership. Click here to read.

One Hundred New Philanthropists: Elliot Talen

Elliot Talen knows that complex problems do not have simple solutions, so he values organizations that take the time to understand community need and convene many partners to address complicated issues. He believes that partnering with the Community Foundation ensures his resources are used with flexibility and adaptability to address the most pressing issues of the day. Click here to read.

Equitable Educational Attainment: An update on our approach

For many decades, education has been a key focus of Grand Rapids Community Foundation's work in Kent County. Our region's overall health and future depend on quality education and student opportunities. We have used multiple tools of philanthropy - including scholarships, grantmaking and community leadership initiatives - to make an impact. Read an update on our approach. Click here to read.

PARTNERS in progress

Learn about some recent grant partnerships approved by our Board of Trustees and by grantmaking committees that target specific identity-based causes. Click here to read.

Reimagining and Redefining Community Philanthropy

One of the ways Grand Rapids Community Foundation has been focusing on disrupting broken systems in philanthropy over the last year has been through addressing the racial inequities that exist in philanthropy. Over the last year, our partnerships with the Latinx Advisory and African American Heritage Fund committees have focused on research, discovery and deep relationship building. The Community Foundation strives to honor the longstanding history of giving in these communities and discover how we might reimagine and redefine community philanthropy. Click here to read.