AAACF Dedicated Grant Program 2025

The Ann Arbor Area Community Foundation (AAACF) has launched the 2025 Dedicated Grant Program, which is now open for applications. The AAACF is a local philanthropic organization committed to supporting impactful community initiatives across Washtenaw County, Michigan. With a focus on enhancing quality of life and addressing diverse community needs, the foundation has developed this grant program around four specialized Field of Interest Funds. In total, over $60,000 will be distributed in competitive grants to nonprofit organizations delivering services aligned with the specific purposes of these funds. Each of the four funds within the Dedicated Grant Program is tailored to support distinct communities or service areas. The African American Endowment Fund focuses on initiatives that aim to improve physical, economic, social, and educational conditions affecting African Americans in the Ann Arbor and Ypsilanti areas. The Barden Family Fund for Enhancing Community supports efforts that benefit veterans and their families, promote aviation education, uphold Catholic values of service and social justice, and foster general community-building initiatives. This fund targets organizations operating within Washtenaw County. The Dexter Community Fund supports efforts within the Dexter community that aim to enrich quality of life. This includes programs and services for seniors, mental health services for both youth and adults, initiatives that enhance outdoor recreational opportunities, services for teens and homebound individuals, and programs that promote arts and culture. Finally, the Junior League of Ann Arbor/Parke Davis Pharmaceutical Research Domestic Violence & Dating Prevention Fund addresses the needs of women and children facing domestic and dating violence. Grants from this fund support early intervention and prevention programs specifically within Washtenaw County. Applications are to be submitted through the AAACF Application Portal. The grant portal includes an eligibility quiz, within which applicants will find a slide presentation that provides essential details about the program. An optional information session will be held via Zoom on Monday, June 9, 2025, at 10 AM for those seeking further guidance. Prospective attendees must register by Friday, June 6, 2025, at 5 PM by emailing Maryellen Ferro. A Zoom link will be emailed on the morning of the session to those registered. The application deadline for the Dedicated Grant Program is July 8, 2025, at 5 PM. Late applications will not be accepted. Although specific application questions and evaluation criteria are not detailed in the announcement, applicants are encouraged to review all materials available through the application portal and contact the funder directly with any questions. For further assistance, applicants may contact Maryellen Ferro, Community Investment Officer, at (734) 663-0401 x116. General inquiries can also be directed to [email protected]. The AAACF office is located at 301 North Main St., Suite 300, Ann Arbor, MI 48104.

Applicants are encouraged to attend the optional information session and review the slide deck available in the portal's Eligibility Quiz section.