Mt. Pleasant Area Community Foundation

306 South University Avenue Mount Pleasant, MI, 48858 United States

(989) 773-7322

Our mission is to enhance the quality of life for all citizens of Isabella County, now and for generations to come, by attracting and holding permanent endowed funds from a wide range of donors, addressing needs through grant making and providing leadership on key community issues.

2025 Annual Breakfast Recap

November 21, 2025  /  Liz Conway

On November 6, nearly 200 community members, nonprofit partners, donors, and local leaders came together to celebrate 35 years of philanthropy at Mt. Pleasant Area Community Foundation’s Annual Breakfast.

Board Vice President Dr. Emma Powell opened the morning with gratitude for our generous sponsors and a look at the year’s accomplishments. The Foundation granted more than $1 million to local nonprofits, awarded nearly $200,000 in scholarships to 120 students, and saw record participation in Give Local Isabella.

Liz Conway, CEO/COO, spoke about the evolving role of philanthropy and her first year in this work. She shared the Foundation’s new three-year strategic plan and highlighted ongoing challenges in Isabella County, including childcare shortages, poverty and ALICE rates, and access to healthcare. Liz encouraged the community to work together and lean into solutions that create long-term impact.

A special moment came with the announcement of a matching gift to grow our Community Impact Funds. Paul Alexander and Mt. Pleasant Abstract and Title are generously matching gifts from now through Giving Tuesday.

Our keynote speaker, Kyle Caldwell, President and CEO of the Council of Michigan Foundations, shared insight on trends and challenges in philanthropy. He discussed the growth of the nonprofit sector, the importance of trust-based giving, and the pressures nonprofits face in today’s climate. Kyle also spoke about the leadership role community foundations play in bringing people together and supporting long-term community needs.

The morning was filled with gratitude, energy, and a strong sense of community. Thank you to everyone who joined us and continues to support this important work.

We can. We must. And together, we will.