Local WWC grant making group requests submissions

KALKASKA – The 100+ Women Who Care Kalkaska organization is seeking to help a Kalkaska-based nonprofit or charity to fulfill its important missions and goals. If a group has an event or project that could use a large monetary gift, representatives said now is the time to be included in 100+ WWC’s fall grant cycle.

The simple process includes submitting a 100+ WWC Kalkaska charity pre-qualification form providing basic information, followed by a brief interview with the group’s board.

Three organizations will be chosen to give a presentation at the next 100+ WWC Kalkaska meeting. Each group will be allotted seven minutes to pitch its event or project, and several additional minutes for a question and answer session with the assembled 100+ WWC Kalkaska members.

The winning charity chosen that evening could walk away with substantial funds to help further its goals. Past grant awards have ranged from $5,000-$7,000.

All charities and organizations are encouraged to apply, especially those working with schools/education, environmental/conservation, arts/culture, poverty/vulnerable populations, animals, health/recreation, service organizations, and any other group focused on giving back to, or growing the region.

Past grant winners include: Kalkaska Area Interfaith Resources for the purchase of a new cooler to assist with food pantry needs; the Au Sable Institute to offer environmental education field trips and activities to Kalkaska Public School children; the Kalkaska Baby Pantry to pay operational costs related to keeping the pantry open; singer and songwriter Dan Hall to promote music and education through song to Kalkaska elementary students; and Friends of the Kalkaska County Library for the purchase of several new computers and a printer for public use.

The public is invited to participate in the fall gathering, which will be held at the United Methodist Church in Kalkaska, with date to be announced soon.

Individuals or teams, made up of no more than four people, are asked to bring a $100 minimum donation to the event to be awarded to the winning charity presenter. 

Ellen Besaw, one of the original 100+Women Who Care Kalkaska members, expressed her gratitude for the continued support of attendees.

“When the six of us decided to organize 100+ Women, we knew that we had kind, generous, giving citizens that would be on board,” Besaw said. “We never imagined the group that we have become. We are young women, mothers, grandmothers, retirees, professionals, local business owners, community leaders, even women that live in other parts of the state and summer here.

“We are so proud of the group that we have become; what an amazing community!” she added.

To receive a pre-qualification form, contact group organizer Pat Sohn at: plsohn@hotmail.com or 231-590-3098. Forms are due by Sunday, Sept. 1.

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