Strategy, Vision & Mission

Barry Community Foundation works with residents, donors, businesses, and organizations to strengthen Barry County, Michigan. Our strategy starts with listening, connecting resources, and working together on needs that matter to our community.

Our Strategy

With vision and generosity, partnerships with individuals, families, businesses, and organizations allow Barry Community Foundation to make meaningful investments in Barry County.


Our work focuses on three connected actions:

  1. Listen to the community. Learn from residents and local organizations about their needs, strengths, and hopes.

  2. Connect people and resources. Help donors and partners support opportunities that match their goals and benefit Barry County.

  3. Work together for lasting impact. Build partnerships and support efforts that address both immediate needs and long-term priorities.

Our Mission

Improve lives by bridging resources and fostering collaboration.

Our Vision

Barry County is a welcoming, vibrant, and engaged community, with opportunity and prosperity for all residents.

Seven Elements of a Healthy Community

Barry Community Foundation uses the Seven Elements of a Healthy Community to consider how different parts of community life work together:

  • Arts and Culture
  • Basic Needs
  • Economy
  • Education
  • Environment
  • Health
  • Neighborhoods


This framework helps guide conversations, partnerships, and investments across Barry County.

Key Initiatives

Our key initiatives show how collaboration can address important local priorities.

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Affordable Housing

Safe, attainable, and affordable housing helps people stay connected to their communities and meet other essential needs. Barry Community Foundation works with local partners to support more housing options in Barry County.

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Community Impact Investing

Community Impact Investing connects charitable capital with opportunities for local impact. The program aims to keep a portion of the money raised in Barry County invested in Barry County, while considering both community benefit and responsible stewardship.

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Small Town Dreams

Small Town Dreams brings residents into conversations about what they value and what they want for their community’s future. The Nashville initiative has gathered local stories and survey responses to help identify shared priorities.

Help Shape What Comes Next

A stronger Barry County takes people willing to listen, give, and work together. Learn more about our community initiatives or contact us to start a conversation.