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 the same time, we’re having thoughtful conversations about how our grants program can evolve to better meet the needs of the nonprofits we serve. We are enhancing our understanding of the funding capacity we have – with the intention of supporting you where you are today and to best prepared for community needs in the future.
We’re also growing our team. We are currently seeking a Youth Engagement Officer who will focus on our scholarship program and our Read Early. Read Often. initiative. And, as you may have noticed, my title has changed from Program Officer to Community Impact Officer. In this new role, I will be focusing more deeply on community development, nonprofit relationships, and strengthening our grants programs.
With so much happening, I encourage you to stay connected! Follow us on social media and keep an eye on your inbox so you don’t miss any updates and opportunities.
And speaking of change! Is there something new happening at your organization? A new program, staff member, partnership, or milestone? We’d love to hear about it. Let us know what’s happening so we can celebrate and share the great work being done throughout our community.
Yours in Partnership,
Hannah Naples, Community Impact Officer
Save the Date!
Fall Oceana Free Dive October 7th
FALL COMMUNITY GRANTS
We are gearing up for the opening of our Fall 2026 Community Grant Round application cycle. While applications are not yet open, now is a great time to begin preparing your proposal and reviewing our funding priorities.
In the meantime, prospective applicants are encouraged to:
- Review our Grant Guidelines to learn more about eligibility requirements and the application process
- Explore our Grant Priorities to determine how your project aligns with our funding goals:
- Create an account in our GoApply portal to ensure you’re ready when applications open
- Connect with Foundation staff to discuss your proposal, ask questions, and determine whether your proposal may be a good fit. Contact us at 231-869-3377 or by email at [email protected].
Join us for a Grant Workshop!
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HELP SPREAD THE WORD!
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 in youth development and post-secondary success.
A Role Focused on Student Success
The Youth Engagement Officer will serve as the heartbeat of the Foundation’s scholarship program, guiding students through the application and acceptance process while ensuring a seamless experience for both recipients and donors. This role will also support broader youth-focused efforts, including the Read early. Read often. (RERO) early literacy initiative, helping to grow partnerships and expand access to books, resources and family engagement activities across the county.
Strengthening Access and Connections
In addition to scholarship administration and program coordination, community engagement is essential for this role, working closely with local schools, colleges, nonprofits, and partners to ensure students are aware of and supported in accessing available opportunities.
“We’re looking for someone who is not only highly organized and detail-oriented, but also passionate about building relationships and helping young people succeed,” said Tammy Carey, CEO. “This is a unique opportunity to make a lasting difference in our community while growing professionally within a supportive and mission-driven team.”
Help Us Build Capacity for Youth Needs
The ideal candidate is a collaborative, community-minded individual with strong communication skills, the ability to manage multiple priorities, and a commitment to lifelong learning. Experience in nonprofit work, education, or program coordination is preferred, though meaningful lived experience and local connections are equally valued.
The position is expected to begin in August, with scheduling flexibility based on organizational needs and candidate availability.
How to Apply
OCF invites interested candidates to take a slightly different approach—rather than submitting a traditional cover letter, applicants are asked to respond to a series of prompts designed to highlight their experiences, values, and approach to teamwork and learning. For more information about the position and how to apply, visit About Us – Community Foundation for Oceana County.
Community Grant Final Reports
Grantees,
Do you have a final grant report lingering from a Community Grant Report?
Remember our reports are two-step:
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Submit Required Documents: Log in to the GoApply grant portal and upload your final budget, photos, and an impact story.
Please take a moment to ensure everything has been submitted.
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Connect with Us: Our final reports are designed to be a conversation rather than a formal report. This approach saves you time while helping us build a stronger relationship and learn more about your impact. Choose what works best for you – a Teams Call, phone call, or site visit – and let’s get it on the calendar!
Reminder: If you’re already completing reports for other funders or preparing updates for your board, we’re happy to align with that work to avoid duplication. Just let us know!
Thank you for all you do to make a difference in our community. We truly appreciate your partnership and are here if you need anything. 💙
THIS & THAT
Complete Your Degree
Do you know anyone who lives in Oceana County and is interested in returning to school and completing their degree or certification? Share the word, YOU may be the person that encourages someone to turn “some day” into today and make the investment in themselves. Current adult learners at WSCC, MCC and Baker College are also eligible to apply into the program – the benefits are worth it (see below)!
In partnership with Baker College, West Shore Community College and Muskegon Community College, adult students can apply to join our CYD program. Students can access renewable academic scholarships, emergency aid funding for barriers (like child care, food, medical care, and transportation needs), and work with a Success Coach. This program is for associate level degrees and certificate training.
For more information about the CYD program, visit the Foundation’s website here or call our office at 231-869-3377 and ask for our Scholarship & Student Success Coordinator, Elly Bainbridge.
Community Matters is a periodic publication of the Oceana Community Foundation that shares news, information, and resources with nonprofit partners throughout Oceana County. Each issue provides updates on foundation programs, funding opportunities, community initiatives, and other resources that help strengthen the organizations serving our communities.