Donor information is highly confidential. The Foundation does not share donor names, addresses or fund-related financial information with any individual or organization without express permission from the donor.
Whether you want to know more about the Oceana Community Foundation (OCF), have questions about making donations or obtaining grants, or you want to download instructions, forms or additional information—it’s all right here in one conveniently accessible area. Of course, if you can’t find what you’re looking for, please feel free to contact us. We’ll be happy to respond quickly with whatever you need.
CFOC Quick Facts
| Key Performance Indicators | 2025 | 2024 | 2023 | 2022 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Investment Returns |
18.02% |
11.50% |
16.84% |
-17.40% |
|
Total Assets |
$24,022,800 |
$19,692,766 |
$18,786,222 |
$16,683,768 |
|
Total Gifts/Grants Received |
$4,742,192 |
$3,427,445 |
$2,567,259 |
$2,500,575 |
|
Number of New Donors |
162 |
191 |
320 |
196 |
|
Gift Count/IRA Gifts |
1009/93 |
962/56 |
1119/41 |
1130/31 |
|
Bequest Gifts |
$70,698 |
$145,388 |
$5,689 |
$15,816 |
|
Total Number of Funds |
212 |
205 |
198 |
191 |
|
Total Grants & Scholarships Paid |
$3,843,615 |
$4,222,218 |
$2,676,244 |
$976,213 |
|
Number of Grants Paid |
656 |
616 |
599 |
588 |
We have long-term investment strategies and proven financial practices to make sure the gifts you leave with us are sustained, grown and put to use effectively. Information regarding our foundation fees, investment fees and investment committee will be provided upon request. The Oceana Community Foundation was an affiliate of the Community Foundation for Muskegon County for 30 years until 2019 and now operates as an independent foundation.
Financial Documents
The Oceana Community Foundation (OCF) currently oversees over more than 200 charitable funds created by individuals, families, companies, and organizations, for the benefit of charitable causes and organizations causes throughout Oceana County and beyond. To learn more, visit our About Us page.
We offer a variety of fund options, including: unrestricted funds, designated funds, scholarships, donor advised, committee advised, field of interest, organization endowment, community project and Build A Fund.
Although some donors want to give directly to a particular organization, many are more comfortable giving through us because of our permanence, professional investment management, and oversight role in ensuring that their wishes are met by the recipient organizations.
You can recommend a grant to any organization that falls within the broad mission of the Foundation and is qualified as a public charity under Section 501(c)(3) of the IRS code. We ensure that groups recommended for a grant meet this requirement. Due to federal tax laws, we must reject grant recommendations that would benefit a specific individual, fulfill a personal obligation or support a political campaign or private foundation.
We are focused on the needs of Oceana County, but we allow grants from donor advised and designated funds to any 501(c)(3) nonprofit in the U.S.
In most cases, the minimum for establishing a fund with us is $5,000. Scholarship funds require a minimum gift of $10,000. You can also create a Build A Fund and make periodic contributions up to 5 years until your fund reaches the desired amount.
We accept a range of assets including: cash, stocks and bonds, real estate, personal property such as jewelry and artwork, life insurance policies and IRA assets. Contact us for a copy of our Gift Acceptance Policy.
Nothing. Starting a fund is free of cost. Our administrative fee structure depends on the type of fund and ranges from 1.0% to 2%. Fiscal sponsorship for campaign/project funds are 2-4%. We use these fees to support our overall operations.
Our fees are highly competitive with commercial gift funds and considerably less expensive than starting a private foundation. We handle all administrative tasks, including filing annual tax returns, performing due diligence on grants, and all details associated with processing and tracking grants—and there are no setup fees. We offer you all the options of your own private foundation, but without the hassle or extra cost. We are also the “local experts” on community organizations, projects & development and connecting community needs to resources.
Gifts to the Foundation are irrevocable. The decision to partner with us is a serious one and we encourage potential fundholders to discuss their intent with their financial or legal advisors.
We offer several opportunities to make life income gifts and we’re happy to work with you and your professional advisors to determine which type is right for you.
If you choose a donor advised fund, you may name co-advisors and successor advisors to continue guiding the fund now, and in the future.
Donor information is highly confidential. The Foundation does not share donor names, addresses or fund-related financial information with any individual or organization without express permission from the donor.
We know your fundraising efforts are focused on gaining support for today’s operations. But omitting endowment and legacy giving from your regular messaging translates into lost opportunities. Don’t worry…you don’t need to be an expert in gift planning or invest a lot of time or money. And it doesn’t have to detract from your current fundraising. You just have to let your donors know you’re planning for the future and show them how they can help. Our easy-to-customize materials are a simple way to incorporate endowment and legacy messages into your own donor communication.
Communicate. It’s often said that people need to hear or see something seven times before they take action. Giving to your fund should be mentioned in some way in all of your communications, both spoken and written. It doesn’t have to detract from annual giving, and some donors will really appreciate that you’re building future sustainability for your organization.
Educate. Be sure to let people know how they can give. Include a link to our online giving page on your website and social media pages. Let people know about the simple and free options to leave legacy gifts to the fund, and help dispel the myth that only the wealthy can leave planned gifts.
Celebrate. Let your people know how your fund is doing. Thank donors publicly when new gifts come in…create a special designation for those who plan future gifts…tell stories of what the fund is doing or will make possible. If you don’t have a bank of good stories yet, give us a call. We have abundant examples that you can use to inspire your donors.
Endowment funds are a natural fit for donors who want to leave legacy gifts, which tend to be some of the largest gifts people are able to give. While 70% of Americans give charitably during their lifetimes, only 10% take the step of leaving a gift through their estate. And the number one reason that people don’t leave legacy gifts is because they weren’t asked to. We know Oceana County can do better…especially if our entire nonprofit community is sharing the same message. We are happy to talk with you, your board, a group of your constituents, or an individual donor about giving to your fund. We all benefit when the organizations in our community have sustainable funding sources…let us help you build yours!
People often need to hear or see a message seven times before they act. Using these simple messages throughout your communications can be a consistent reminder to your donors. Place them on letterhead, as a “PS” in letters or emails, in your newsletter, on your website, as social media posts, on your gift envelopes, in your email signature, etc.
Download a Word document of this sample content here.
Article #1
“We don’t like their sound and guitar music is on the way out.”
Decca Recording Company rejecting the Beatles, 1962
The future is hard to predict. But one thing we do know is that we will need resources to fuel our mission in the years to come. That’s why we’ve created the [your organization] endowment fund at the Oceana Community Foundation.
Our fund is professionally invested for the long-term, and each year, 4% of the average fund balance is available to us to support our ongoing needs. The Foundation handles all administrative details and investment responsibilities for our fund, freeing us to concentrate on our mission.
[Include a couple lines about your mission or a mention of someone who has given to your fund or left a legacy gift.] [John & Jane Donor] believe in the importance of our work, which is why they’ve been giving to our fund each year in addition supporting our current operations.
We hope you will consider playing a part in our future. To learn more, please contact [your staff contact] or Tammy Carey at the Community Foundation at 231.869.3377 or [email protected].
Article #2
Did you know that [organization] has an endowment fund with the Oceana Community Foundation?
Building future support to sustain our work in the community is important to us. [Add a line or two about what you do.]
While we still need your direct support for our current operations, we want you to know that anyone can contribute to [organization’s] future with an endowment gift of any size! You can add to our fund today, and think about leaving a future gift through your estate. It’s the perfect way to show your love for your community and to leave your legacy for future generations. It does not require great wealth. It requires generosity of spirit and the desire to share what you have for the benefit of others!
Contributions to our endowment fund are tax deductible and can take many forms. To learn more about making a gift to the [organization] endowment fund, contact [your staff contact] or Tammy Carey at the Community Foundation at 231.869.3377 or [email protected].
Article #3
You can make an important investment in [your organization] that costs you nothing during your lifetime!
By making the [your organization]’s endowment fund at the Oceana Community Foundation the beneficiary of a life insurance policy or retirement plan, you can be assured that your gift will receive expert stewardship and help us meet our mission well into the future.
Using a beneficiary designation form available through your plan administrator, you can specify the entire account or simply a percentage of it. By directing the benefit to “the [organization]’s endowment fund at the Oceana Community Foundation, a 501(c)(3) tax exempt organization,” you are making a lasting gift that does not require that you make changes to your will and trust documents. It’s easy and free!
To learn more about making a gift to the [organization]’s endowment fund, please contact [your staff contact] or Tammy Carey at the Community Foundation at 231.869.3377 or [email protected].
Article #4
While you know we depend greatly on the gifts you give us for our annual operating budget, we want you to know that we are planning for our organization’s future by building an endowment fund at the Oceana Community Foundation.
If you feel good about the impact you’re making with your gifts today, we hope you’ll consider an extra gift to the Fund to ensure that your impact continues far into the future! There are some easy ways to do that:
Your gifts mean so much to this community. Thank you for being steady supporters of the work we’re doing together today, and thank you for considering an extra gift to the future!
Download a Word document of the sample newsletter content here.
Created in Word, this simple flyer is easy to customize with your information and your image. Consider including it in a mailing to donors or having available in your facility.
Download the flyer here.
We award grants to nonprofit, tax-exempt organizations serving Oceana County that have been determined by the IRS to be 501(c)(3) and 509(a) public charaties.
To become a 501(c)(3) organization you must file an application with the IRS.
We have two competitive community grant rounds each year in the Spring & Fall. With deadlines per year: March 31 and August 31.
For grant application guidelines (link) and more information about our priorities (link) for awarding grants, please visit the Grants section of our website.
Because of limited financial resources at this time, the Foundation generally makes only one-time grant commitments up to $5,000. Longer term commitments may be considered for initiatives that show exceptional promise for community impact.
Begin by contacting a member of our grant staff to discuss your proposal. Afterwards, you will be directed to the online application. Visit the Applying for a Grant (link) page of our website for additional information.
The grant process takes around 8-10 weeks from application to announcement of awards.
We do not accept applications for specific donor advised funds, which are advised by individuals, families or companies. However, we do bring funding ideas to the attention of these donors through our Community Wish Lists and through connecting donors to projects and programs that match their charitable interests.
We award grants to faith-based organizations that fall within the broad mission of the Foundation and are qualified as public charities under Section 501(c)(3) of the IRS code. The United States has over 650,000 IRS-approved charities, which includes most faith-based programs. We ensure that groups recommended for a grant meet this requirement. Due to federal tax laws, we must reject grant recommendations that would benefit a specific individual, fulfill a personal obligation or support a political campaign or private foundation.
We value your partnership and understand that multiple organizational funding needs may arise, therefore we allow for more than one submission in a calendar year. If an organization presents two grant proposals in one calendar year, they should be for distinct programs.
You can apply for grants as opportunities arise, but please keep in mind that our funding is designed to support innovative projects and initiatives, rather than provide ongoing operational support. We encourage you to explore other funding sources for sustainability, as our goal is to help as many organizations as possible achieve their mission. By coming to the well too often, you may limit opportunities for others in our community.
Our volunteer advisory committees, with staff support, review requests for funding and then present recommendations to our Board of Trustees for final approval.
The following are just a few of the many reasons it’s important to discuss giving with your clients.
As a member of the community, we know local issues and leaders, and how to bring government, community and nonprofit players together in meaningful ways. Using us as a resource for giving makes everything simpler and easier for you and your clients. Our purpose is to provide support and expertise, so we can work entirely in the background or we can attend every meeting with you—it’s up to you and your client.
The Foundation is a cost-free resource for charitable and estate planning and we’ve been working with professional advisors since 1989. When legislative or tax changes impact your clients, we’ll keep you informed.
If any of the following points describe your clients, they may benefit from knowing more about CFOC. We’d be happy to help you introduce them to our work.
We offer the maximum charitable tax advantages available by law. is The Foundation is not subject to the taxes and regulations affecting private foundations, and we have greater flexibility on matters such as minimum payout, so more money goes toward the cause.
We offer a variety of fund options, including: unrestricted, designated, scholarships, donor advised, committee advised, field of interest, organization endowment, charitable unitrust, community service/nonprofit support and build a funds.
If you want to discuss the many benefits of charitable giving with your clients without recommending specific causes or organizations, the Foundation is a simple solution. A community foundation provides a single, trusted place where clients can address issues they care about, while gaining the maximum tax benefit under state and federal law. We offer many giving options, including the ability to set up a fund in your client’s name or company name. Clients can suggest grants to the nonprofit of their choice each year, or select one or more organizations to give to, perpetually.
Although some donors want to give directly to a particular organization, many are more comfortable giving through us because of our permanence, professional investment management, and oversight role in ensuring that their wishes are met by the recipient organizations.
Your client can support a favorite charity through either a donor advised fund, or a designated fund. We handle all of the administration, recordkeeping and financial statements for both options. With donor advised funds, donors have direct control and decide which organizations and programs receive grants. Designated funds provide endowment funding for a specific nonprofit organization and can be set up to allow building of the fund over time. Each year, the fund’s earnings can be distributed to the nonprofit or kept for future use.
Your client can recommend a grant to any organization that falls within the broad mission of the Foundation and is qualified as a public charity under Section 501(c)(3) of the IRS code. We ensure that groups recommended for a grant meet this requirement. Due to federal tax laws, we must reject grant recommendations that would benefit a specific individual, fulfill a personal obligation or support a political campaign or private foundation.
We are focused on the needs of Oceana County, but we allow grants from donor advised and designated funds to any 501(c)(3) nonprofit in the U.S.
In most cases, the minimum for establishing a fund with us is $5,000. Scholarship funds require a minimum gift of $10,000. You can also create a Build A Fund and make periodic contributions until your fund reaches the desired amount.
We accept a range of assets including: cash, stocks and bonds, real estate, personal property such as jewelry and artwork, life insurance policies and IRA assets.
Nothing. Starting a fund is free of cost. Our annual fee structure depends on the type of fund and ranges from 1.0% to 2%. The Foundation uses these fees to support our overall operations.
Our fees are highly competitive with commercial gift funds and considerably less expensive than starting a private foundation. We handle all administrative tasks, including filing annual tax returns, performing due diligence on grants, and all details associated with processing and tracking grants—and there are no setup fees. We offer you all the options of your own private foundation, but without the hassle extra cost.
Although giving may be an essential part of any financial plan, there are times when you may need some recommendations on the best ways to begin that discussion. Just give us a call. We can provide a variety of suggestions on how you can get that conversation started.
Donor information is highly confidential. We do not share donor names, addresses or fund-related financial information with any individual or organization without express permission from the donor.
Navigating the scholarship process can be challenging, and we’re here to help. Whether you’re applying for a scholarship or have already received an award, these frequently asked questions provide helpful guidance every step of the way.
How many applications do I need to fill out to be considered for 60 scholarships?
Only one. Our single application automatically matches you to every opportunity we have available.
What is the most important part of the application?
Your Story. We want to know who you are beyond your transcript.
Can scholarships be used for more than tuition?
Yes! You can use the funds for books, housing, or tools for trades and apprenticeships.
Do I need to use my scholarship right away?
No. We can be flexible regarding when your scholarship is used; just keep us in the loop.
Can scholarships only be used at 4-year colleges and universities?
No. They apply to trade programs, 6-month certificates (like welding or CDL), and nursing certifications to help you get to work faster.
Are there scholarships for specific majors or career paths?
Yes. We have dedicated scholarships for many fields, including: Nursing, Pre-Med, Education, Skilled Trades, Engineering, Agriculture, and the Arts.
What if I am interested in a very niche career, like aviation or barbering?
We have specialized funds for unique paths!
Are there scholarships for students attending specific colleges?
While many are flexible, some funds give preference to students attending Michigan State University, Central Michigan University, or Michigan Tech.
Are scholarships only for high school seniors?
No. We support high school seniors, current college students, grad students, and returning adults.
Are there scholarships for “non-traditional” students or adults returning to school?
Yes. See our Complete Your Degree program.
I don’t have a high GPA. Is there something for me?
Yes, for many of our scholarships GPA is not a factor.
Does financial need determine who gets a scholarship?
While not required for all, some funds give preference to students demonstrating financial need. Many others focus on leadership, community involvement, or specific career paths regardless of income.
When is the scholarship deadline?
The application is due within the first week of March.
How often are scholarships awarded?
Our scholarships are awarded once per year.
When will I find out if I was selected?
Recipients are notified in May. High school seniors are typically recognized at their school’s awards ceremonies, while college and non-traditional students receive notification by mail.
How do I claim my scholarship?
To receive your scholarship, you must complete the Acceptance & Agreement Form online: goapply2.akoyago.com/OCEANA/
To help ensure your school receives funds in time for fall, please submit your form by June 10.
When and how are funds sent?
After you complete the acceptance requirements, scholarship funds are typically sent directly to your college, university, or training program in July for the 2026–27 academic year.
Awards are usually split evenly between fall and winter/spring, but we can sometimes adjust timing if your program doesn’t follow a traditional semester schedule (for example, earlier, later, or all at once).
Please accept your scholarship first, then contact us if you need to discuss a different schedule—we’ll help you to determine the best use of your awards.
How can I use my scholarship funds?
Scholarships may be used for qualified educational expenses included in your cost of attendance, such as:
If you are pursuing a skilled trades, apprenticeship, or other hands-on training program, funds may also be used for tools, equipment, uniforms, or certification and licensing costs required for your program.
If you have expenses outside of a traditional college billing structure, please contact us after accepting your award—we can often work with you to support your specific needs.
What if I miss the June 10 deadline?
You can still submit your acceptance form after June 10. However, your school may not receive funds before your first payment due date for the fall semester.
If you have not accepted or requested a deferral by October 1, 2026, we reserve the right to cancel all awards.
Can I defer my scholarship?
If you plan to delay your education (for example, starting in the spring or taking a gap year), contact us as soon as possible.
To keep your scholarship:
If we do not hear from you by these deadlines, your scholarship may be canceled.
What if my plans or information change?
Please keep us informed so we can support you and ensure your funds are sent correctly.
Let us know if you:
Is my scholarship renewable?
Check your award letter—if your scholarship is renewable, it will be listed by year with your awards.
To renew:
Are there tax implications?
If the amount of your award exceeds the tuition and fees required to enroll, such as if used for books, supplies and equipment that are required for the courses, may be considered taxable income.