Growing Community Impact: For Good. For Ever. For All.

At the Ann Arbor Area Community Foundation (AAACF), our mission has always been rooted in a simple but powerful promise: For Good. For Ever. For All. For more than 60 years, we have worked alongside donors, nonprofit partners, and community leaders to strengthen Washtenaw County and expand opportunity for everyone who calls it home.

Today, that commitment continues through S.E.E.D.S., our guiding framework for philanthropy, partnership, and long-term community investment. Like planting a garden, meaningful change takes intention, care, and time. By investing in resources, relationships, and ideas, we help create the conditions for communities to grow stronger and more resilient.

As the philanthropic hub of Washtenaw County, AAACF stewards nearly half a billion dollars in charitable assets and distributes approximately $40 million annually in grants and scholarships. Through S.E.E.D.S., these resources are directed toward long-term solutions that strengthen the social and economic foundations of our region.

The Meaning Behind S.E.E.D.S.

S.E.E.D.S. represents five interconnected priorities that guide AAACF’s work. At the heart of the framework is strengthening community voices. The most effective solutions come from those closest to the challenges and opportunities. By listening to residents and community partners, AAACF ensures that initiatives reflect lived experience and respond to real needs.

Equity at the center is another core priority. Thriving communities require fair access to resources, opportunities, and pathways to success. Through grantmaking, partnerships, and targeted investments, AAACF works to reduce barriers and expand opportunities so every resident can participate in shaping Washtenaw County’s future.

The framework also emphasizes expanding rural reach, recognizing that rural communities are essential to our county’s identity and vitality. These areas often face unique challenges in accessing resources and services, and AAACF is committed to strengthening connections to ensure opportunity extends to every corner of the county.

Investing in and developing the next generation is equally critical. Through scholarships, youth leadership programs, and educational partnerships, AAACF helps young people build the skills, confidence, and opportunities needed to become tomorrow’s leaders and changemakers.

Finally, S.E.E.D.S. focuses on securing the future through impact investing. By aligning financial investments with mission-driven goals, AAACF supports projects that strengthen housing, childcare, local businesses, and food systems - creating both immediate impact and long-term economic mobility.

Together, these priorities form a holistic approach that addresses current needs while building toward lasting, systemic change.

Planting S.E.E.D.S. to Grow Action

At AAACF, our work comes to life through the collaboration of dedicated teams, each playing a vital role in advancing our mission and strengthening our community. Our Community Investment team partners with nonprofits to direct grants and scholarships toward essential programs and services that support residents across the county. Through Philanthropic Services, donors are connected with causes aligned to their values, transforming generosity into meaningful, lasting community impact. The President’s Office helps guide AAACF’s vision while fostering partnerships and collaboration, ensuring the Foundation continues to listen, respond, and lead alongside the community.

Meanwhile, Systems and Finance teams provide responsible stewardship of charitable assets, along with data and insights that help measure outcomes, ensure transparency, and guide decision-making. Together, these teams act as stewards of community trust, ensuring every investment and partnership strengthens the roots of the region.

Seeds Taking Root

The impact of S.E.E.D.S. is already visible across Washtenaw County. Guided by AAACF’s mission to improve the quality of life and advance economic mobility for all residents of Washtenaw County - today, tomorrow, and for generations to come - the Foundation continues to invest in meaningful, community-driven change.

Through the Community Scholarship Program, students receive support to pursue higher education and career pathways that shape their futures and strengthen the broader community.

Impact investments are also helping expand access to critical services. For example, support for organizations like Apple Playschools helps increase access to high-quality early childhood education, giving families reliable childcare and children a strong foundation for learning.

Across the region, AAACF continues to partner with nonprofits addressing housing stability, food insecurity, healthcare access, and economic mobility. Each collaboration represents another seed planted - strengthening the systems that support community well-being.

Cultivating a Lasting Legacy

S.E.E.D.S. invites the entire community to take part in shaping the future of Washtenaw County - where every act of generosity helps cultivate opportunity, connection, and long-term growth. From supporting existing funds to establishing new ones aligned with emerging needs, donors and partners play a vital role in building innovative solutions and strengthening our region for a lasting legacy.

True impact is measured not only by what we achieve today, but by the opportunities we create for future generations. Through S.E.E.D.S., AAACF is committed to fostering resilience, expanding opportunity, and building a legacy of shared prosperity.

As Rev. Dr. Shannon Polk, President and CEO, shares:

“I am incredibly proud of the work we are doing at AAACF and through the S.E.E.D.S. initiative. Every grant, partnership, and investment represents our commitment to growing opportunity, strengthening community, and building a legacy that will benefit Washtenaw County for generations.”

By investing in these efforts today, we help ensure our community continues to grow and thrive for years to come.

For Good. For Ever. For All.