The Chelsea Community Foundation exists to help nonprofit organizations achieve their mission to address community needs and opportunities to improve Chelsea's quality of life.
Chelsea Community Foundation leads and collaborates to bring permanent, positive change in Chelsea through thoughtful giving. We are dedicated to enhancing the quality of life in Chelsea through supporting local nonprofits. With the generous support of individuals, families, and businesses, we are building an endowment for the Chelsea Community and helping fulfill charitable goals. Our permanent charitable endowment of $2.7 million has granted $2 million to impactful nonprofit organizations within the Chelsea School District.
Our roots trace back to merging two philanthropic organizations in 1994: the Civic Foundation of Chelsea and The Foundation for Community Care, established by the Chelsea Community Hospital. In 1995, we became an affiliate of the Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan, benefiting from their expertise in local investments and donor support. Through strategic grantmaking, we prioritize projects in the categories of Arts & Culture, Medical & Intergenerational Healthy Aging, Trails, Parks & Transportation, and Youth & Education. Our focus is on sustainability, community impact, leverage, and collaboration.
In response to emergent needs, such as those exacerbated by the pandemic, we provided $160,000 to local nonprofits outside our regular grant cycle in April 2020. Our annual grant investment of $130,00 in 2023 demonstrates our ongoing commitment to the community. Visit our GIVE and APPLY Pages for information on donating and grant applications.
Our advisory committee, composed of civic leaders, ensures effective oversight. It is supported by the generosity of local collaborators and stakeholders who share our vision for a thriving Chelsea. Together, we're building a resilient and vibrant community.
The Chelsea Community Foundation remains steadfast in its commitment to Chelsea. We're deeply grateful for the continued generosity of donors in the Chelsea area and the nonprofit organizations making a grass-roots difference in shaping Chelsea's future.