Through our work, AAACF seeks innovative and effective solutions to community-wide issues. Our key initiatives include:
Impact Investing
We believe that philanthropic capital can further the betterment of Washtenaw County through grants as well as investments. Impact Investing unlocks additional capital and thus, in turn, more opportunity to pursue and achieve lasting positive change on critical issues—such as affordable housing, access to healthy food, transportation, high-quality education—and it can aid in growing and strengthening our local small business community.
Community Scholarship Program
The AAACF Community Scholarship Program provides multi-year scholarships and holistic support systems to increase college access and graduation rates for Washtenaw County students who are economically disadvantaged, youth of color, or first generation college students.
Healthy and Fulfilling Aging
AAACF's Healthy and Fulfilling Aging initiative is dedicated to creating enduring outcomes for vulnerable seniors and their caregivers in Washtenaw County, supported by data and research commissioned by the Community Foundation.
EmpowerMENt Fund
The vision and purpose of the EmpowerMENt Fund is to empower and support young Black men and boys in Washtenaw County while promoting their educational success.
Arts and Culture
Arts and Culture is a strategic initiative that seeks to promote economic prosperity for our region by investing in and strengthening arts & culture nonprofits in Washtenaw County.
Community Grantmaking
Our Community Grantmaking supports “Rewarding Success” operating support grants; “Strengthening the Nonprofit Sector” capacity‐building grants; and “Encouraging Innovation” grants for “bold ideas.” Within this three‐pronged program, grantees are evaluated on leadership & governance; high‐quality, impactful programs; and financial strength.
Youth Council
AAACF's Youth Council provides Washtenaw County high school students with a unique opportunity to make a meaningful difference in our community through philanthropy, grantmaking and community service.