As a community foundation, GACF offers a variety of fund types for donors to consider. Unrestricted Funds provide permanent flexibility and are considered the Foundation’s most important assets, capable of addressing community needs as they change over time. The GACF Unrestricted Fund, along with the affiliated Lakeview Area Community Fund (LACF) and the Montcalm Area Community Fund (MPCF) are essential for meeting local needs, including future needs that cannot yet be anticipated. The assets of these unique funds have been built through gifts, both big and small, by those who want to give back to their community.  

The GACF Unrestricted Fund was established in 1991, the first general endowment at GACF. Since then, the fund has awarded over $800,000 to libraries, museums, schools, festivals, municipalities, and more. The fund’s largest grant was $48,525, awarded to the City of Greenville Fred Meijer Trail Hub as part of the project’s total funding.  

The LACF and MPCF Unrestricted Funds are geographically specific, focused on enhancing the quality of life in the Lakeview and Panhandle areas. They support a variety of needs, from educational programs and community events to infrastructure improvements and social services. Two recently funded grants include the Howard City Senior Action Center remodel and update supported by MPCF, and an LACF grant to the Sonshine Worship Center Abby’s Kitchen Food Pantry.  

Unrestricted funds are the cornerstone of a community foundation’s ability to adapt and respond to ever-changing needs. These funds ensure that the generosity of donors can continue to make an impact for generations, no matter how community needs evolve. 

As GACF celebrates its 35th anniversary, we bring together the collective stories of donors, nonprofits, students, and community members to demonstrate the power of philanthropy in creating lasting impact and a stronger future.