Applications Sought for “Carolyn’s Kids” Grant Program
Applications Sought for Berrien Community Foundation’s “Carolyn’s Kids” Grant Program
Kid-focused grant program awards $100,000 annually
Berrien Community Foundation is now accepting applications for Carolyn’s Kids, a grant program awarding two $50,000 grants to support projects or programming for local youth. Deadline to apply is July 1, 2025.
The grant opportunity was started by Carolyn Hanson, who wanted to ensure the needs of young people are met in the Benton Harbor, St. Joseph or Stevensville communities each year by offering grant opportunities in partnership with Berrien Community Foundation. To for a Carolyn’s Kids grant, visit www.berriencommunity.org/ckapp.
“The children truly are the future,” said Carolyn Hanson. “I care so much about what happens to our kids. I’m so honored, proud and humbled that I can be part of doing something to help kids.”
“Every year we see the incredible creativity and commitment from local nonprofits who apply,” said BCF President Lisa Cripps-Downey. “It’s inspiring to see how these grants help build a stronger safety net for kids and open up opportunities that might not have been possible otherwise.”
The grant opportunity is available to nonprofit organizations, schools, churches doing community work and government organizations.
Carolyn’s Kids looks for programs that improve the lives of children by:
- Meeting basic needs
- Enhancing educational experiences
- Addressing mental and emotional well-being
- Contributing to their safety and security
- Preparing them for the future
“The criteria intentionally reflect a very broad range of ways to positively impact the lives of children,” Cripps-Downey said. “I encourage organizations to be creative and come to us with ideas. It can be supporting an existing program or trying something completely new.”
Applications are now available through the Berrien Community Foundation website at www.berriencommunity.org/grants. Applications are due Tuesday, July 1, 2025. The winning applications will be announced in October at the Berrien Community Foundation’s Annual Meeting & Celebration.
The Berrien Community Foundation is a center of philanthropy in Berrien County, holding endowments and other funds to support programs and projects throughout Berrien County. These Community Foundation funds support the ever-changing needs of Berrien County now and into the future. With more than $100 million in assets, the Foundation provides grants and scholarships plus opportunities for individuals across the County to fulfill charitable intentions through life-end giving and estate planning. For information about BCF, call 269-983-3304 or visit www.berriencommunity.org.
