Our Story

The Dexter Community Fund is dedicated to upholding the values and vision of its founding members, keeping Dexter and the Dexter area community* united and inspired through thoughtful, strategic grantmaking.

Established in 2014 as part of the Ann Arbor Area Community Foundation, the Dexter Community Fund is a permanent endowment dedicated to enriching the quality of life for everyone who is fortunate to call the Dexter area home, and for many generations to come. Local families and businesses are deeply rooted here and are strongly committed to maintaining its vitality and history.

With the Huron River winding and flowing through town, beautiful local parks, and the growing Border-to-Border Trail, Dexter provides many opportunities to enjoy the outdoors. Specialty shops, local events, art venues, and the welcoming environment all blend together to create this cherished and connected space.

In 2023, the Dexter Community Fund Advisory Committee performed an updated needs assessment, partnering and soliciting input from representatives across local government, schools, faith communities, nonprofits, and public safety. This needs assessment helped define and determine its current focus areas:

• Seniors & Youth  
• Food & Housing  
• Arts & Cultural  
• Mental Health  
• Recreation  

Thanks to our treasured donors, the Dexter Community Fund continues to grow as a maturing source of community capital, available to invest in projects and nonprofit organizations in perpetuity. Through these investments, the Dexter Community Fund preserves the ability to build a stronger, more resilient community—now and for the future.

*The Dexter area community is defined geographically by the Dexter Community School District
 
 

Past Grantees

In 2017, the Dexter Community Fund awarded its first grants. As DCF’s endowment grows, the Fund will address the changing needs of the community and it will have an even greater impact touching the lives of every resident in the Dexter community.