News & Events

On October 6, Fremont Area Community Foundation hosted more than 60 donors for lunch and an update on the organization’s strategic planning. The luncheon was held at The Shack Country Inn on Robinson Lake in White Cloud.

Shelly Kasprzycki, the Community Foundation’s president and CEO, welcomed guests and, after lunch, shared updates on what the organization has learned through its strategic planning process. Data gathering to begin the process included analyzing research on local needs as well as interviews and focus groups with donors, nonprofit leaders, and other community members.

Data showed that while poverty has fallen since 2010, the pandemic and inflation have increased food insecurity. Affordable housing continues to be an issue as well, with estimates showing our area is around 250 houses short of the local need.

Kasprzycki noted that feedback from donors highlighted the Community Foundation’s stewardship and integrity. “For staff and trustees, that’s the highest compliment,” she said. She also shared feedback from grantees, which included interest in a proactive response to big issues and creating a more streamlined, transparent grantmaking process.

“We’re thinking about these emerging themes and how we build them in,” said Kasprzycki, who expects trustees to approve a final strategic plan by year’s end. “We’re always listening and always interested in what you need from us.  We’re so grateful for people like you.”

More than 50 colleges, job training programs, military organizations, and community resources were represented at College and Career Night Out on September 29 at Fremont High School.

The annual event drew hundreds of students and families from across Newaygo County to learn more about post-secondary education and job training, financial aid, and more. WE CAN! Newaygo County—the local career and college access network—and Fremont Area Community Foundation partnered on the event.

Melissa Miller, administrator of career and college readiness for the Newaygo County Regional Educational Service Agency, said that the event was designed to spark curiosity and connection regarding college and career opportunities for local students.

“With so many factors that can influence a student’s decision to pursue higher education or training after high school, this event continues to serve families by bringing numerous career and college resources and representatives under one roof,” said Miller. “Families are able to make connections, get their questions answered, and hopefully realize there are many resources to support them as they navigate this selection process.”

Attendees enjoyed pizza and were able to attend informational sessions on financial aid, choosing a college, the Promise Zone, and career preparation through apprenticeships. After informational sessions concluded, a college and career fair in the gym allowed students to speak with representatives from a wide variety of public and private colleges and universities, military branches, trade schools, and career training programs.

Representatives from Early College Newaygo County, Gerber Foundation, Michigan Works! West Central, Michigan Student Aid, Newaygo County Area Promise Zone, Newaygo County Career-Tech Center, Telamon, and the Community Foundation were also available to share more about the resources their organizations offer to students and families.

Event organizers extend their thanks to their hosts at Fremont High School, the community members and students who volunteered during the event, session presenters, and the local businesses who supported food and beverages, including Biggby Coffee, Family Fare, and Walmart.