The holiday season is a time to reflect on gratitude - and in Washtenaw County, it’s also a time to come together in support of our neighbors. This year, the Ann Arbor Area Community Foundation (AAACF) is honored to partner with Eastern Michigan University (EMU) for the 2025 “Thankful to Go” community event, a drive-through Thanksgiving meal ingredient pickup event helping local families enjoy a warm, nourishing holiday.

A Community Tradition Rooted in Care

Taking place on Wednesday, November 20, 2025, at EMU’s George Gervin GameAbove Center, Thankful to Go will provide local families with frozen turkeys or hams, baked goods, pies, and fresh local produce - ensuring households across Ypsilanti and surrounding communities can celebrate the season with dignity and support.

The event is hosted by EMU President James Smith and Connie Ruhl-Smith, EMU Director of Development for International Relations, whose longstanding commitment to community engagement has helped strengthen this annual tradition.

“The Ann Arbor Area Community Foundation is deeply appreciative of the countless ways Eastern Michigan University supports our community,” says Christopher Lemon, AAACF’s Vice President for Community Investment. 

“Partnering with EMU to provide food for families during the holiday season is a meaningful way for our two organizations to come together and deliver immediate impact for those who need it most.”

Highlighting Community Partners & Resources

AAACF is also proud to uplift one of our valued community partners: Riverside Arts Center (RAC), a creative home in Ypsilanti dedicated to expanding access to the arts for all.

Through affordable classes, free programs, exhibitions, and youth camps, RAC provides welcoming spaces where people of all ages can learn, create, and connect. Guided by The Big Idea, RAC believes everyone deserves the chance to experience and participate in the arts.

This year, we’re excited to help promote RAC’s annual Holiday Art Fair, a joyful celebration of local artists and handmade gifts:

2025 Holiday Art Fair
📅 Nov. 22 | 11am–6pm
📅 Nov. 23 | 11am–4pm
📍 76 N. Huron Street, Ypsilanti
💵 $1 suggested entry

More at riversidearts.org/art-fair

Events like this make Washtenaw County vibrant, creative, and connected - and AAACF is grateful to stand alongside partners like RAC who uplift the community year-round.

Looking Ahead: Community Scholarship Program Opens December 2025

As we support families today, AAACF also remains committed to investing in tomorrow’s leaders. Our Community Scholarship Program (CSP), opening its scholarship portal in December 2025, provides first-generation students, low-income students, and youth of color with up to five years of holistic, trust-based support.

CSP Scholars receive:
• Up to $20,000 in scholarship funding
• A $3,000 Tech Budget
• Access to Emergency Aid & Financial Assistance
• A dedicated College Success Coach offering academic guidance, financial aid support, and ongoing systems navigation

CSP’s impact is significant - 65% of scholars earn a degree within five years, compared to 34% of low-income students countywide.

Learn more at aaacf.org/scholarships.

Gratitude in Action

“Ensuring a higher quality of life for all residents of Washtenaw County begins with grateful service,” says Shannon Polk, D.Min., J.D., President & CEO of AAACF. 

“AAACF is grateful to serve alongside EMU, Riverside Arts Center, and our many community partners as we support our neighbors and continue building a stronger, more caring community together.”

AAACF is thankful for the residents who make our community strong - and grateful to collaborate with EMU for the 2025 Thankful to Go event. Together, we are building a more connected, creative, and equitable Washtenaw County - one family, one student, and one act of generosity at a time.