The Sturgis Area Community Foundation (SACF) recently announced its list of micro-grant recipients for the winter cycle, while providing details on each recipient’s proposed project.
According to the foundation, micro-grants are focused on delivering financial support for organizations seeking aid for smaller projects or initiatives of up to $5,000. Projects must benefit the residents of the Sturgis area and St. Joseph County.
Nonprofit organizations interested in seeking grant support from the Community Foundation are encouraged to visit sturgisfoundation.org/grants for additional information about the process.
Editor’s note: The following list of recipients and project summaries were taken directly from SACF’s website, and were not composed by Watershed Voice staff. Any statements or opinions expressed in these summaries should be regarded as those of the organizations that composed them, and not Watershed Voice.
Grant Recipients
Hope United, Inc.
“Getting Ahead in a Just Gettin-By World” Class
“Getting Ahead in a Just Gettin-By World” is a workshop series based on a national model developed with the “Bridges Out of Poverty” framework. It is designed to assist those living in poverty by offering them a safe environment to step outside of their daily struggles and focus on their future. Over 18 weeks, participants, known as investigators, collaborate with three facilitators to explore poverty in their own lives and communities. This program equips investigators with the necessary tools to create their own stories of change and overcome environmental, circumstantial, and psychological challenges, as well as potential resource deficiencies.
The “Getting Ahead” class is a valuable asset to the entire community, as it goes beyond quick fixes and handouts that are typically associated with poverty alleviation. Instead, it offers practical solutions for self-sufficiency, breaking the cycle of brokenness that so many people find themselves in.
Doyle Community Center
Date With Dad
The Doyle Community Center has been organizing the Date With Dad Dance for girls between the ages of 3 and 12 over the past several years. The event’s theme changes yearly, and this year’s theme is centered around the Disney movie Encanto. The Encanto characters are known for giving to their community, and the food items offered at the event will reflect each character’s contribution. The event is packed with activities such as dancing, playing, taking pictures, coloring, and snacking on food. The evening is sure to be a blast with its variety of backdrops, take-home items for the girls, glow necklaces and bracelets, coloring, and, of course, dancing.
Everyone is welcome to attend, including Sturgis residents and dads and daughters from neighboring areas like Bronson, Coldwater, LaGrange, Colon, White Pigeon, Centreville, Burr Oak, and beyond. Join an evening of fun and entertainment on February 23rd from 6:30 to 9:00 PM!
Open Door Art Center
Open Door Community Studio
The Open Door Art Center is dedicated to promoting the arts and community involvement through ceramics as they strive to transform the region’s identity into a hub for creativity and innovation. With the help of SACF grant funding, the Center will enhance its pottery studio with updated equipment and offer classes at a lower cost, catering to diverse age groups, skill levels, and interests. The program provides an affordable way for individuals to explore their creativity and expand their skills while enriching the community’s cultural experience. The pottery studio will also serve as a gathering space for locals that promotes building social bonds and contributes to the well-being of Sturgis residents.
United Community Assistance Program
Utility Assistance
The United Community Assistance Program (UCAP) is dedicated to promoting self-sufficiency and dignity for individuals and families in St. Joseph County, Michigan. They work closely with faith-based communities, organizations, and individuals to coordinate services for those in need.
With the support of a generous grant from the Sturgis Area Community Foundation, UCAP can provide assistance to families and individuals struggling with their utility bills. They are committed to identifying and addressing past-due utility bills in a timely manner to prevent further charges and potential shut-offs. UCAP recognizes the severe impact that utility shut-offs have on families, particularly children, and their physical and emotional health. Providing support not only strengthens our community but also provides stability for the residents of Sturgis.
For more information on grants or donor services, email [email protected].
