Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan

The multi-use lane on the new Gordie Howe International Bridge has opened up a path to bike and trail tourism between Detroit and Windsor. The opening comes amid a 30% drop in Canadian tourism and the loss of $1 billion in revenue in Metro Detroit this year amid tensions between the two countries over tariffs put in place last year by the Trump administration. With Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan, Michigan Department of Natural Resources, WATERFRONT REGENERATION TRUST From Crain's Detroit Business: https://lnkd.in/gj2uJ3Xd

“Who are we and what do we want the next generation to carry forward?” 💭 Building a meaningful philanthropic legacy requires intentionality, shared purpose, and a clear vision for the future. In our latest guest blog, Randall Ross, Vice President of Donor Services at the Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan, outlines 5 essential lessons every family foundation should consider when planning for the future. Read more: https://lnkd.in/gn2WneKg

Giving is one of the most powerful ways we shape the communities we live in. Whether it's expanding economic opportunity, closing gaps in health equity, or preserving the public spaces we share, philanthropy allows individuals to invest directly in the outcomes they want to see for generations to come. An Endowed Field of Interest Fund is built for exactly that kind of long-term impact. Rather than a one-time gift, it's invested over time, so your support for the causes you care about continues well into the future — creating a lasting legacy rather than a single moment of generosity. For donors who want their giving to reflect their values and have staying power, this is a meaningful way to make it happen. Learn more about how an Endowed Field of Interest Fund works at https://bit.ly/4fCPydC. #EndowedGiving #FieldOfInterestFund #CommunityFoundation

Wafa Dinaro, Executive Director of the New Economy Initiative, published a new op-ed in The Detroit News on one of the biggest hidden challenges for entrepreneurs: finding the right resources at the right time. She points to Detroit entrepreneur Jordan Smith, who grew Just Elevate Fitness Club with help from TechTown Detroit, ProsperUs Detroit, Michigan Black Business Alliance, Black Leaders Detroit, and Motor City Match — yet still hit friction finding the right resource at the right time. His experience is part of what inspired MI Small Business Helper, NEI's free platform linking founders to 100+ trusted resources across the region. An everlasting impact. Read the full op-ed to learn how NEI is making collaboration something entrepreneurs actually experience.  Link in comments. #SmallBusiness #CommunityFoundation

This summer, there is no shortage of ways to invest in the region we call home. From showing up for youth sports to supporting local businesses and gathering with neighbors, the opportunities to strengthen southeast Michigan are all around us. The Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan is proud to support the organizations and spaces making those moments possible.  Swipe through for a look at some of the ways to get involved this season.

Across southeast Michigan, collaboration is at the heart of the work. This month, justice advocates connected with national leaders to bring new ideas back to the state and local level. Nonprofit leaders gathered to share resources and strengthen relationships. Coaches came together to expand access to sport for more young people. And entrepreneurs and small business owners networked to fuel growth across Metro Detroit. Swipe through to see the latest from the Michigan Justice Fund, Pontiac Funders Collaborative, Project Play Southeast Michigan, and New Economy Initiative.

What role does a community foundation play in building a stronger region? From funding community needs today to building endowments that serve generations of nonprofits tomorrow, the Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan exists to connect the generosity of our donors with the work that makes this region stronger. Swipe through for a quick look at how it all comes together, and visit https://bit.ly/4poGwWh to learn more about how the Community Foundation helps turn generosity into lasting impact.

The Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan has long supported several significant milestones in building and preserving public spaces across our region — from trail designations and park renovations to riverfront revitalization and greenway connections. These investments reflect our belief that thriving communities depend on vibrant, accessible public spaces for everyone. Swipe through the timeline to see how that commitment has taken shape in recent years.

Building a legacy of giving is about more than just estate planning. A legacy of giving is made in the conversations you have, the values you model, and the stories you pass down. This June, the Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan hosted family philanthropy expert, Susan Schoenfeld for a half-day conversation on the human side of wealth and giving. Swipe through for five of the most resonant lessons from that morning. Read her full advice at the link in the comments.

The Webster Community Center is a beacon of light and hope, providing support and resources to the Pontiac community. From an accessible community garden to shared community spaces and support services, the center has become a hub where nonprofits and residents come together to build a stronger and more connected Pontiac. This fall, the center will welcome Head Start and Early Head Start classrooms through a partnership with the Oakland Livingston Human Service Agency (OLHSA). Soon, the center will also feature a new playground, giving school children and local families a space to gather, play and thrive together. On July 9, Program Officer Erin Marie McDonald represented the Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan and the Pontiac Funders Collaborative at the groundbreaking of the new playground site. This moment reflects what's possible when residents, city and county officials, funders and nonprofits work together toward a shared vision. We're proud to support the Webster Community Center and the Micah 6 Community for their continued efforts in creating a space where Pontiac residents can find support, opportunity and community. The playground is set to be completed by the start of the 2026 school year. We look forward to seeing it come to life. Learn more about OLHSA: https://bit.ly/4piRqNf Learn more about Micah 6: https://bit.ly/44qtfCX Learn more about the Webster Community Center: https://bit.ly/3RcswSM