community Engagement
Barry Community Foundation brings people, ideas, and resources together to help Barry County thrive.
When we see an issue, need, or opportunity, we work with residents, local organizations, schools, businesses, and community leaders to find practical solutions. Our work includes leadership development, youth philanthropy, career readiness, education support, nonprofit collaboration, attainable housing, and community-based programs.
How Does Barry Community Foundation Support Community Engagement?
Barry Community Foundation supports community engagement by connecting people and resources around local priorities. Through programs, geographic affiliates, nonprofit partnerships, and community initiatives, the Foundation helps create stronger communities throughout Barry County.
Our Programs
Building Leaders, Supporting Youth, and Connecting the Community
Our programs create opportunities for people of all ages to learn, lead, serve, give back, and build meaningful connections.
Leadership Barry County
Leadership Barry County helps established and emerging leaders strengthen their skills, build relationships, and learn more about the people and organizations that shape Barry County.
The Bridge
The Bridge connects young professionals through networking, leadership development, volunteer opportunities, and member-directed local grantmaking.
Youth Advisory Council
The Youth Advisory Council empowers Barry County youth through leadership, service, philanthropy, volunteerism, and grantmaking.
KickStart to Career
KickStart to Career helps Barry County kindergartners begin saving for future college, career training, or other education goals.
Geographic Affiliates
Local Leadership for Local Communities
Barry Community Foundation works with geographic affiliates that serve specific school districts and communities. The Foundation manages charitable assets while local advisory boards help identify needs, review requests, and recommend funding.
Delton Kellogg Education Foundation
The Delton Kellogg Education Foundation supports the educational needs of students and teachers in the Delton Kellogg Area School District.
Thornapple Area Enrichment Foundation
The Thornapple Area Enrichment Foundation works to cultivate a strong Thornapple Kellogg community through scholarships, grants, recognition, and local support.
Maple Valley Enrichment Foundation
Maple Valley Enrichment Foundation works to strengthen the Maple Valley community through scholarships, grants, recognition, and support for local opportunities.
Barry Community Enrichment Center
A Home for Nonprofits, Learning, and Community Connection
The Barry Community Enrichment Center brings nonprofit organizations, community resources, events, workshops, classes, and learning opportunities together under one roof.
The center is home to nonprofit partners serving Barry County and includes spaces for gatherings, education, culinary arts, and performing arts.
Community Initiatives
Working Together on Important Local Needs
Some community challenges require long-term collaboration. Barry Community Foundation brings partners together to address issues that affect the health, stability, and future of Barry County.
Current initiatives include work focused on attainable and affordable housing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is community engagement at Barry Community Foundation?
Community engagement is the Foundation’s work to bring people, organizations, and resources together around important needs and opportunities in Barry County.
What programs are part of Community Engagement?
Community Engagement includes Leadership Barry County, The Bridge, Youth Advisory Council, KickStart to Career, geographic affiliates, the Barry Community Enrichment Center, and community initiatives such as affordable housing.
How can I get involved?
You can get involved by joining a program, volunteering, attending an event, supporting a fund, serving on a committee, donating, or connecting with Barry Community Foundation staff.
Does Barry Community Foundation work with local organizations?
Yes. The Foundation works with nonprofits, schools, businesses, local governments, residents, and community leaders to support local programs and address community needs.
