
Fueling Equity & Racial Justice Since 1925
KZCF is dedicated to our mission to create a thriving community where people, resources and expertise are mobilized to advance racial, social and economic justice in Kalamazoo County.
What is a community foundation?
It’s simply a type of charitable organization that pools donations from individuals, families and businesses to support charitable initiatives within a specific geographic area — ours has and always will be Kalamazoo County.
4 Keys to Community Greatness
KZCF’s Equity-Focused Priorities Explained
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Wealthis attainable and people have resources to meet their needs and invest in their futures.
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Housingis safe, affordable and available for every individual and family.
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Educationis accessible and learners are supported on their journey.
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Neighborhoodsare vibrant and community spaces nurture health, safety, and strong social connections.
Breaking Barriers to Build Generational Wealth
We believe that financial security and opportunity should be within reach for everyone. By addressing wealth equity in Kalamazoo County, we can create a future where everyone has access to the tools, resources and pathways needed to meet their needs and invest in their future.
We will focus on strategies and initiatives including but not limited to:
- Expanding access to capital and financial empowerment education.
- Supporting small businesses and entrepreneurs, especially those from historically excluded communities.
- Equipping our workforce with training and credentials to access well-paying jobs with upward mobility.
- Closing the racial wealth gap by investing in equitable economic development.
Increasing Access to Safe & Reliable Housing
We believe that safe housing is a right for all and that increasing affordable housing in Kalamazoo County is not only necessary but within reach.
We will focus on strategies and initiatives including but not limited to:
- Protecting unhoused and unstably housed community members.
- Preventing evictions and housing loss.
- Preserving accessible housing stock through housing repairs and rehabilitation.
- Investing in new and innovative affordable housing developments countywide.
Opening Doors Through Education & Opportunity
We believe that every community member deserves access to a high-quality education that leads to a future filled with possibility. Investing in education equity ensures that all learners — regardless of zip code, background or age — receive the support and opportunities they need to thrive.
We will focus on strategies and initiatives including but not limited to:
- Increasing access to early childhood education.
- Supporting literacy development for all ages.
- Enhancing K-12 outcomes with tutoring, mentorship and enrichment programs.
- Expanding pathways to college, career training and workforce readiness.
- Removing barriers to education by addressing basic needs like transportation and technology.
Thriving Neighborhoods Strengthen Us All
We believe that vibrant, well-resourced neighborhoods create a stronger, healthier, more connected community. When we invest in public spaces and make critical resources accessible to people where they live, we foster a sense of belonging, security and opportunity for all.
We will focus on strategies and initiatives including but not limited to:
- Making mental, physical, and behavioral health and healthy foods more accessible to people where they live.
- Strengthening community bonds through improved community spaces, cultural events and civic engagement.
Impact By the Numbers
See how our donor-driven philanthropy is measuring up and making a difference.
Impact Investments
Approved to support new projects and developments across Kalamazoo County.
Impact Investment Dollars
Allocated in total to support a thriving Kalamazoo County.
Nonprofits
Supported through one-time and multiyear funding.
Donor Advised Funds
Started and stewarded with community members, families and organizations.
Community Events
Sponsored, creating opportunities to connect, celebrate, learn, work and grow together.
Grant Dollars
Awarded to support nonprofit progress in Kalamazoo.
All data reflects numbers for the 2024 calendar year.
Our Latest Annual Report:
Celebrating a New Era for KZCF & Kalamazoo County
Individual & Community Transformation Rooted In Healing & Love
It is our deepest belief that when people and families experience the transformative power of equity, wealth, housing, education and neighborhood vitality, they get all the benefits of a re-imagined, prosperous and loving community.

Nonprofits, businesses and startups are no longer working in isolation; they are part of a vibrant, interconnected ecosystem where equity is the foundation of prosperity.
Everyday people once burdened by pervasive inequity now experience a sense of belonging and empowerment.
Communities are transformed into spaces where trust is rebuilt, relationships are authentic, and everyone has a place and a purpose.
Everyone has the chance to contribute their unique talents, creating a community that is not only just but joyful, resilient and full of life.
Renewed hope and freedom lead to a flourishing of creativity, innovation and collaboration.
Community Impact News & Updates
Maximizing Investing Efforts to Close the Economic Gap & Bring Community Visions to Life
KZCF understands that eliminating economic disparities for our community members is one way to establish a thriving Kalamazoo County.
Envisioning Something New: How Charles Hanks Aims to Reimagine Occupational Therapy for Kalamazoo Residents
Charles Hanks is a personal trainer at the Kalamazoo Athletic Club and a graduate student at Western Michigan University (WMU). He received a Kalamazoo Community Foundation (KZCF) Emergency Scholarship in 2023.
Black History Month Spotlight Series: The Honorable Carolyn H. Williams
During this Black History Month, the Kalamazoo Community Foundation (KZCF) is honored to shine a spotlight on the incredible contributions of our Black and African American donors. Through their generous donations, which have spanned the course of decades, KZCF has been able to continue the work of helping to make Kalamazoo the most equitable place to live.
Make a Gift That Keeps on Giving!
Contributions to KZCF ensure your gifts will continue to benefit our community forever. Help us make an impact that lasts for generations to come by giving a gift today.