The Ann Arbor Area Community Foundation (AAACF) has been working to enrich the quality of life in Washtenaw County since 1963. As a permanent endowment, AAACF connects donors, nonprofits, community leaders, and residents to address pressing needs and create long-term solutions. The Foundation’s work is built on a commitment to equity, opportunity, and resilience — ensuring that the region thrives for generations to come.

One way AAACF shares progress and vision with the community is through its Annual Community Meeting (ACM). This gathering not only celebrates the donors, nonprofits, and residents who make impact possible but also reinforces transparency and collaboration which are at the heart of AAACF’s mission.
 

Using Data to Drive Change
AAACF is deeply committed to making data-driven decisions that help identify community challenges and measure progress. The Community Data Hub was created to serve as a central resource for nonprofits, civic leaders, and residents. It compiles and shares reliable statistics about demographics, education, housing, the economy, and more. By turning information into action, the Data Hub helps ensure that resources are directed where they are most needed.

Recent reports underscore how this data is shaping local conversations. The Washtenaw County Housing Affordability and Stability Study highlights the growing challenges families face in finding and maintaining affordable housing within our communities. Similarly, The Economic Gap Report reveals disparities in income & opportunity that persist across the county. These insights are essential for understanding systemic issues and mobilizing targeted solutions - and they reflect why AAACF’s role as both convener and connector is so critical.
 

Impact Investing for the Long-Term
Beyond traditional grantmaking, AAACF also uses impact investing to create sustainable change. By channeling endowed assets into local projects and organizations, impact investing generates both financial returns and measurable community benefits. From affordable housing developments to small business support, this approach allows AAACF to address Washtenaw County’s most pressing needs today while ensuring resources remain strong for the future.


 

2025 Annual Community Meeting
This year’s Annual Community Meeting will take place on Tuesday, September 16, 2025, from 3:00 to 6:00 p.m. EST at Washtenaw Community College’s Morris J. Lawrence Building. The theme, “Rising Together: Celebrating our Collective Impact,” reflects the power of collaboration and connection in creating a stronger Washtenaw County.

2024 AAACF Annual Community Meeting attendees 

“This annual meeting is about honoring the spirit of working together — celebrating the donors, nonprofits, and residents who ensure Washtenaw County thrives,” said Shannon Polk, President & CEO of AAACF.
 

Fun, Food, and Connection
The meeting will open with an hour dedicated to fun and fellowship. Guests can enjoy complimentary refreshments, visit with neighbors and partners, and try their hand at the Cash Grab Money Machine for a playful chance to win grant money for local non-profit organizations. A photo booth will also be on site to capture memories from the afternoon.
 

What to Expect

• Networking & Collaboration — Opportunities to connect with local leaders and community members.
• Impact Highlights — Stories and updates showcasing the results of AAACF’s grants, scholarships, and partnerships.
• Community Voices & Donor Stories — Inspiring stories from donors and residents shaping philanthropy in the region.
• Future Outlook — A conversation with AAACF Board Chair Karen Andrews on the foundation’s strategic direction.

2024 AAACF Annual Community Meeting Attendees

AAACF President & CEO Shannon Polk with Philanthropic Advisors Patrick Naswell & Karen Shellie

Event Details
We invite you to register today to be part of this annual celebration of community impact. Encourage your neighbors, family, and friends who live in Washtenaw County to attend - the more voices and connections in the room, the stronger our collective future becomes!

Date & Time: Tuesday, September 16, 2025 | 3:00–6:00 p.m. EST
Location: Washtenaw Community College, Morris J. Lawrence Building
Who Should Attend: Donors, nonprofits, civic and business leaders, residents - anyone who cares about the future of Washtenaw County

Together, we rise — for good, for ever, for all. We hope you’ll join us for this inspiring afternoon of connection and celebration.
 

AAACF Announces the 2025 Annual Community Meeting

Check out the full press release about AAACF's Annual Community Meeting HERE. To share this press release through your publication channels, please access any of the following:

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