Community Matters July 2026
As we all work our way through summer activities & fun, it’s a fitting time to reflect on the waves of change happening at the Community Foundation. Exciting things are underway! The final touches are being put on our new building, and we look forward to welcoming you into our new space this fall. At […]
New Foundation Role Will Champion Youth Across Oceana County
The Oceana Community Foundation (OCF) is excited to announce the creation of a new full-time position: Youth Engagement Officer, reflecting the organization’s continued growth and deep commitment to supporting young people across Oceana County. As programs and partnerships continue to expand, this new role will play a key part in strengthening the Foundation’s impact, particularly […]
Beyond the Music: Electric Forest Continues to Invest in Oceana County’s Vibrancy
As thousands of visitors arrive in Oceana County this weekend for Electric Forest, the Festival’s presence is once again evident not only on the Double JJ grounds, but also in classrooms, parks, and community spaces across the region. While the four-day event brings music and energy to Rothbury each summer, its impact extends far beyond […]
Working Together for Greater Impact: Oceana Free Dive Focuses on Systems Change
The Oceana Community Foundation recently hosted its Spring Oceana Free Dive focused on Systems Change & Collective Impact, bringing together 47 individuals representing more than 30 organizations from across Oceana County. Community members, nonprofit leaders, educators, healthcare professionals, business representatives, and local government all gathered for a morning centered on one important idea: we all […]
Leadership Learning Lab Reaches Milestone of 50 Local Participants
The Leadership Learning Lab (LLL), a regional professional development program for nonprofit and community leaders, has reached a significant milestone in Oceana County: 50 local leaders have now participated in the program. Since its launch, the Lab has steadily expanded its impact by supporting leaders from a wide range of organizations and sectors. Participants have […]
Oceana Community Foundation to Host Spring Oceana Free Dive Focused on Systems Change
The Oceana Community Foundation invites local nonprofits, community partners, and stakeholders to attend its Spring Oceana Free Dive, a collaborative learning and networking event centered on systems change. The session will take place on Thursday, May 21, from 9:00 to 11:00 AM at the West Michigan Research Center in Hart. Designed as an opportunity to […]
Foundation kicks off the 6th Annual Migrant Child Task Force Donation Drive
The Oceana Community Foundation, in partnership with Oceana County’s Department of Health & Human Services (DHHS) Migrant Outreach team, has launched the 6th Annual Migrant Child Task Force Donation Drive. This coordinated effort makes it easy for community members to support local migrant farmworker families by donating high‑need items identified and distributed directly by DHHS. […]
Oceana Community Foundation Announces Spring Community Grant Awards
The Oceana Community Foundation awarded $85,768 in total grants to 20 organizations in this year’s Spring Community Grant round, providing funding to all applicants and in some cases meeting the full program cost. These investments help support a wide range of initiatives across our county, focusing on youth leadership and literacy, community parks and recreation, […]
Honoring a Legacy of Joy: The Cindy Lewis Memorial Fund
Some people leave a mark on a community that time can never erase. Cindy Lewis was one of those people—someone whose warmth, creativity, and boundless enthusiasm shaped Oceana County in unforgettable ways. What began as a small farm market grew—through Cindy’s vision, passion, and sheer determination—into Lewis Adventure Farm & Zoo, a beloved destination where […]
Foundation welcomes Cindy Bengston as Administrative Assistant
The Oceana Community Foundation is pleased to announce the hiring of Cindy Bengston as its new Administrative Assistant. Bengston brings a rich blend of experience in education, client engagement, hospitality leadership, and cross‑cultural communication—skills that will strengthen Community Foundation operations and support its mission to enhance the quality of life in Oceana County. Prior to […]