Contribute to an Existing Fund
Amplify change by supporting a cause in motion.
Everyone should feel empowered to make an impact.
There are lots of notions about what philanthropy is, who’s welcome to participate and what participation looks like. The truth is, philanthropy is something we all can do! If you donate to a local school, volunteer at your church or contribute to a crowdsource campaign online, you’re a philanthropist.
When you think about philanthropy, some of the challenges listed here might sound familiar, and that’s exactly why we’re here — to help you overcome these barriers and ensure that regardless of age, race gender or income, your generosity has the power to create meaningful change that stands the test of time.
Limited Giving = Limited Impact
Our hearts are often bigger than our wallets, and our contributions can feel too small to matter.
Donation Decision Overload
There are so many worthy causes, and it’s hard to know where to focus our giving or how to start.
Passive, One-Dimensional Support
For many of us, giving feels more rewarding when it’s hands-on — not just writing a check.
Uncertainty About Impact
Donors may worry that their contributions won’t make a real difference or that they won’t see the tangible results of their giving.
Tax & Legal Complexities
Tax implications and legal considerations of significant charitable contributions can be daunting to navigate.
Balancing Multiple Interests or Causes
Donors who care about multiple issues might struggle to allocate their funds effectively across different causes.
Over 1,000 Established Funds to Choose From
KZCF connects generous donors to the causes they care about that impact our community most, maximize every giving dollar and enhance the philanthropic experience. With over 1,000 funds and partnerships to choose from, every community member has the opportunity to simply and confidently live (and give) into their values.
Kalamazoo Rx Kids
Boldly Reimagining Support for Families & Babies
This innovative program supports families and babies with a no-strings-attached cash prescription from pregnancy through a baby’s first year of life.
Sustaining Leaders Initiative
Thank You to Kalamazoo’s Nonprofit Leaders
This fund provides respite, professional development, executive coaching and wellness grants to nonprofit leaders of color in Kalamazoo County.
CURF
Community Urgent Relief Fund to the Rescue
In response to the May 7 tornadoes, our Community Urgent Relief Fund (CURF) remains open. Requests for funding are reviewed weekly, and Kalamazoo County needs your support!
Follow your giving heart — supporting an existing fund makes it easy. D
Donor-Driven Donation Options for Every Level of Giving
KZCF accepts and assists donors with many kinds of contributions — such as one-time and recurring donations, securities, real estate, life insurance and trusts — for all kinds of giving now and in the future. Not sure how to get started — donor liaisons are always ready to help!
1000+ Vetted Partners & Established Funds
We steward hundreds of funds and support trusted, leading nonprofits so donors can confidently support causes in line with your values making an impact where you live.
Tax Incentives & Stress-Free Asset Transfer Assistance
Our team is ready to guide donors through available charitable deductions and support or completely manage the transfer of complex assets, acting as a partner to financial advisors and an extension of a donor’s advisory team.
Love Where You Live Funds = Easy, Unrestricted Giving
A gift to one of our Love Where You Live Funds is the fastest and easiest way to donate to Kalamazoo Community Foundation.
Got giving trouble? Joanna can help.
To learn more about funds, philanthropy, or our giving process, connect with Joanna Donnelly Dales via the contact form or call 269.381.4416.
Donor Stories, Resources & Updates
Donor-Driven Philanthropy
Everyone has a heart for giving and should be empowered to make an impact.
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.
Black History Month Spotlight Series: Valerie Mitchell
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.