The Youth Advisory Committee (YAC) is a youth-focused and youth-administered grant committee within the Jackson Community Foundation. YAC addresses the needs of youth in Jackson County by awarding grants to community organizations that benefit youth. At the same time, it provides the students involved in the program an opportunity to volunteer their time and talents to better their community while developing philanthropic leadership skills and valuable experience.

Eligibility:   501(c)3 nonprofit organizations, school districts, churches and units of government impacting youth in Jackson County, Michigan for youth related programs and projects

Grant Amount: Up to $3,000

Upcoming Grant Round: Not currently accepting applications

Deadline: TBA

Teachers Fund was established in 1992 with a grant from the Hurst Foundation. Grant proposals are reviewed by an advisory committee consisting of educators representing public and private schools in Jackson County. The Teachers Fund is dedicated to rewarding creative and innovative K-12 (public, private and home school) classroom educational projects up to $3,000.The Teachers Fund is dedicated to rewarding creative and innovative K-12 classroom educational projects.

Grant Amount:  Up to $3,000

Deadline: Not Currently Accepting Applications. Check back Spring 2025.

The Jackson Community Foundation (JCF) focuses a small amount of grantmaking dollars each year to support local community-building events that also align with our Mission, Vision, Values, and our Community Needs Endowment Fund Grantmaking Priority, Aims, and Guidelines.

Grant Amount:  Typically between $200 - $500

Deadline: Throughout the calendar year

APPLICATION

The Jackson Community Foundation will support coalitions of organizations actively and authentically collaborating with Jackson County’s most economically challenged communities and neighborhoods and working together to find solutions to our most persistent and complex problems. We are looking to support systems change efforts that align with one or more of our “Grantmaking Aims”:

• We Are Healthy

• We Reach Our Full Potential

• We Live in a Socially Just Community

• We Are Safe

• Our Basic Needs Are Met

Grant Amount:  Up to $20,000

Deadline: September 30, 2025, at 5:00 PM or until funds run out, whichever comes first.

APPLICATION

Purpose:  To support the determination and passion of Jackson County’s grassroots, “boots on the ground,” community-based organizations, neighborhood groups, etc. that help residents actively join together to improve their city block, neighborhood, or community.

Eligibility:  Grassroots, community-based organizations, or neighborhood groups that meet several criteria.

Deadline: Not currently accepting applications. Check back in 2025.

This Fund was created with collaborative grants from the Consumers Energy Endowment Fund, the Asset Map Special Project Fund and the President’s Discretionary Fund, all component funds of the Foundation.

The Jackson Young Professionals grew out of the Anchor Initiative, a program that supports living, buying and innovating in downtown Jackson.  The group was established to promote social & career development as well as encourage community outreach and volunteerism. Grant focus are programs designed to improve the quality of life for Jackson County residents.

Eligible Applicants: Nonprofit 501(c)3 organizations serving Jackson County, Michigan

Grant Amount: Up to $1,000

Deadline: Not currently accepting applications.

The "I Love My Community Endowment Fund" was established in memory of Barbara Ramp. "My grandmother, Barbara Ramp, was one of the most genuine, giving people I have ever known. While thinking about setting up this fund I was reminded of her generous spirit," said Carolyn Moser, Fund Representative. Does your nonprofit organization have a great idea?  If so, the "I Love My Community Endowment Fund" wants to hear all about it!

Grant Amount: Up to $1,000

Deadline: Not currently accepting applications.

The Youth Advisory Committee (YAC) is a youth-focused and youth-administered grant committee within the Jackson Community Foundation (JCF).   Over 800 local high school students completed the YAC Needs Assessment survey each year.  The results clearly indicate that youth mental health concerns are a significant issue for the youth of Jackson County.  Based on these findings, YAC l conducts an annual grant round focusing only on youth mental health projects.

Eligible Applicants: 501(c)3 nonprofit organizations, school districts, churches and units of government impacting youth mental health in Jackson County, Michigan

Grant Amount: Up to $3,000

Deadline: Not currently accepting applications.

This grant round made possible by the Wirebaugh Family Youth Sports Fund. "Our family has always been active in sports, both participating and watching, and feel these activities contribute to becoming a successful, well-rounded person.  It helps keep kids out of trouble and some companies like to hire those kids who have played sports because they have learned how to get along with others and become team players." -The Wirebaugh Family

To support youth (up to age 18) of Jackson County, Michigan in their active participation in sports, whether organized by schools, youth leagues, or local nonprofits.  These grants are intended to help youth to participate in sports who may not otherwise be able to afford to play.

Grant Amount: Up to $500

Deadline: 

Summer-Fall Sport Programs: April 8th at 5PM

Winter-Spring Sport Programs: November 13th at 5PM

The YAC Mini-Grant program accepts K-12 student written grants for classroom projects. This unique program originated here at JCF and is now replicated around the state.  Designed to introduce the concept of a community foundation and our work, students complete a grant proposal and budget.  Funds can be used for materials, projects or programs that benefit youth, encourage volunteerism and enhance the school environment. 

Grant Amount: Up to $300

Deadline: October 1st - March 31st

To Apply: Email mbouman@jacksoncf.org for application

The Jackson Community Foundation is awarding Operational Support and Program grants to cover the short-term operating needs of 501(c)3 nonprofit organizations and the programmatic expenses of 501(c)3 nonprofit organizations, school districts, and governmental entities serving Jackson County.

GRANT ROUND 1:

Application Opens: Mid-February 2025

Deadline:  March 3rd at 5PM

Award Notification:  By early June 2025

GRANT ROUND 2:

Application Opens:  Mid-July 2025

Deadline: September 8th at 5PM

Award Notification:  By early November 2025