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BRANCH COUNTY COMMUNITY FOUNDATION ANNUAL REPORT FISCAL YEAR 2021 2022

LETTER TO THE COMMUNITY As I prepared the stories to share in this annual report I felt humbled and grateful for all the relationships resources and knowledge gathered by the Branch County Community Foundation over the past 31 years The Community Foundation brings local philanthropy full circle We are a nonprofit focused on building community endowments and connecting needs with resources We turn generosity into community impact through the careful investment of gifts received from our generous donors so we can use the investment income to provide grants for local charitable organizations In turn local nonprofits use that grant money to provide beneficial programs and services to our community Looking back over the year I am incredibly thankful for the support and leadership of our board of directors the generosity passion and dedication of our donors and volunteers and the efforts of the community partners that inspired us along the way Working together we identified issues and solved problems in our communities supported our local schools charities and neighbors and strengthened the bonds that tie our community together I am so proud for the Community Foundation to be at the nexus of it all as we work to achieve our vision for Branch County and Colon This annual report highlights the community impact of the dollars we granted over the last fiscal year Every dollar we distribute is an investment in our community This year we invested money to improve mental health services provide opportunities for higher education help preserve local histories increase access to quality childcare reduce homelessness and more As you read I hope you ll see how the last year brought us another step closer to our goal of a prosperous collaborative and welcoming community that inspires local pride in its residents where everyone feels a sense of belonging and opportunities to grow and thrive are accessible to all Erica Heminger Erica Heminger Executive Director 2 BRANCH COUNTY COMMUNITY FOUNDATION 2021 2022 ANNUAL REPORT 3

WHO WE ARE OUR STAFF The Branch County Community Foundation BCCF is a nonprofit 501 c 3 dedicated to improving the quality of life in the communities of Branch County and Colon Michigan In partnership with generous donors and community partners we lead a community wide effort to build a better future for everyone OUR MISSION We promote and inspire community generosity and giving by bringing together passionate people and resources in our collective efforts to make an enduring difference in the community we love Erica Heminger Executive Director Madison Hostetler Program Officer Mallory VanWagner YAC Advisor OUR VISION A prosperous collaborative and welcoming Branch County community that promotes a strong sense of belonging and pride in its residents and provides opportunities for all to grow and thrive Mackenzie Bracy Volunteer YAC Advisor 4 OUR PURPOSE DIRECTOR EMERITUS To achieve our vision we will be a proactive collaborative and innovative community leader and partner in addressing community needs and making Branch County and Colon places people want to live work and visit Paul Creal Chuck Lillis Ron Rose Hillary Eley Robert Mayer Patricia Klein Shoemaker Rachel Hard Reemus Rigg Connie Winbigler BRANCH COUNTY COMMUNITY FOUNDATION 2021 2022 ANNUAL REPORT 5

OUR BOARD Our donor led board consists of volunteers from all over Branch County and the Colon area and includes a member of our Youth Advisory Council These dedicated volunteers have expertise in business governance finance and other skills we need to operate transparently efficiently and effectively Board members serve limited terms without compensation Keely Beemer Anne Freiburger Board Member Mike Hoffner Josh Jones Brian Miller Salwa Alsuraimi Patti Miller Don Germann Jennifer Searls Alexis Galliers Board Chair Board Secretary 6 Board Member Board Vice Chair Board Treasurer BRANCH COUNTY COMMUNITY FOUNDATION Board Member Board Member Board Member Youth Advisory Committee 2021 2022 ANNUAL REPORT 7

OUR ACCREDITATION BRANCH COUNTY COMMUNITY FOUNDATION RECEIVES NATIONAL STANDARDS FOR U S COMMUNITY FOUNDATIONS ACCREDITATION This is critically important to our donors When people make a charitable bequest or establish a fund they trust us They count on us to manage the investment wisely and honor their charitable wishes The National Standards accreditation says our house is in order Erica Heminger BCCF Executive Director The Community Foundation works to be a proactive collaborative and innovative community leader and partner in addressing community needs and making Branch County and Colon places people want to live work and visit The Branch County Community Foundation BCCF recently received accreditation with the nation s highest standard for philanthropic excellence National Standards for U S Community Foundations establishes legal ethical and effective practices for community foundations everywhere Meeting the National Standards benchmarks is a rigorous comprehensive process This accreditation is a significant accomplishment that indicates the BCCF demonstrates a commitment to transparency quality integrity and accountability as it carries out its mission Mike Hoffner BCCF Board Chair The National Standards for U S Community Foundations program requires community foundations to document their policies for donor services investments grantmaking and administration With over 500 community foundations accredited nationwide the program provides quality assurance to donors and their legal and financial advisors 8 BRANCH COUNTY COMMUNITY FOUNDATION BCCF offers a range of charitable funds allowing donors to advance a cause support an individual organization provide flexible support for community needs or recommend individual grants In addition to affirming the organization s philanthropic services the accreditation validates the Branch County Community Foundation s grantmaking practices for the nonprofit community Grantmaking is a lot like investing We assess risks weigh potential gains diversify assets monitor performance and operate fairly Our National Standards accreditation assures donors that we re doing just that Erica Heminger BCCF Executive Director National Standards for U S Community Foundations is the first program of its kind for charitable foundations in the United States The Community Foundations National Standards Board is a supporting organization of the Council on Foundations It is responsible for the quality value and integrity of compliance with National Standards 2021 2022 ANNUAL REPORT 9

OUR IMPACT At our core the Community Foundation is about connection We bring together passionate generous people who want to build strong prosperous communities through charitable investment Our vision for Branch County is one of a successful collaborative and welcoming community where residents feel a sense of belonging and pride and everyone has opportunities to grow and thrive Over the following pages we ll share some of the ways we ve invested in our communities over the last fiscal year and the impact of those investments We hope you find inspiration in these stories of needs met people helped organizations supported and lives changed Read on to see what your donation dollars can achieve when you partner with the Branch County Community Foundation 10 BRANCH COUNTY COMMUNITY FOUNDATION 2021 2022 ANNUAL REPORT 11

The Coach Eby Youth Family Center is a staple in the Branch County Community and its gym floor sees a lot of foot traffic throughout the year In addition to its regular youth and family programming the Eby Center provides facility rental for events and hosts free Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners The Center hosts Toys4 Tots Distributions BCCADSV Pancakes with Santa Girl Scout Events athletic practices for basketball volleyball and pickleball teams and even the occasional Tibbits Opera House production rehearsals During severe weather the Eby Center opens the gymnasium as a 24 hour warming center providing three meals per day cots blankets and a warm place to sleep for the most vulnerable population in Branch County and surrounding areas COACH EBY CENTER RESTORATION PROJECT This hustle and bustle of community activity throughout the year means the gym floor endures a lot of wear and tear which was beginning to show Faced with the high cost of restoration the Eby center applied for a grant from the Community Foundation How can we continue to serve our community if we don t have the basic updates to allow our center to flourish asked Melissa Austin the Financial Coordinator for the Eby Center With resources from the Forever Fund and contributions from an additional private Donor Advised Fund the Branch County Community Foundation granted funds for the gym restoration project 12 BRANCH COUNTY COMMUNITY FOUNDATION 2021 2022 ANNUAL REPORT 13

PRESERVING LOCAL HISTORY The local history room at the Colon Township Library is a joint project between the Colon Historical Society and the Friends of the Colon Township Library The Historical Society has managed the community s museum and growing collection for several decades Their collection includes one of a kind books diaries maps newspapers and other items that require special curation and ideally a controlled environment to preserve the materials The Colon Township Library also has many local history books and records in danger of deterioration theft and damage With space available in their finished basement for a local history room a joint venture to organize and preserve documents from the township s library and the museum offered a perfect solution The Community Foundation provided funding for some of the most pressing needs including storage and essential technology including a computer scanner copier and a security camera With the community foundation grant and considerable hands on assistance from local volunteers a temperature controlled secure room was created and furnished with shelving units COLON TOWNSHIP LIBRARY 14 BRANCH COUNTY COMMUNITY FOUNDATION The funding allowed for a computer to store historical information and have it all in one place for historians while also having a cloud based backup in the event of a disaster The scanner allows them to scan and save documents that families may let them borrow but with which they are unwilling to part The security camera provides additional insurance to prevent and detect theft 2021 2022 ANNUAL REPORT 15

The Colon Township Library and the Colon Historical Society were able to leverage the funding from the Community Foundation to apply for and receive funding from Save Michigan History through the National Historical Publications and Records Commission NHPRC carried out through the Michigan State Historical Records Advisory Board The additional funding provided a traveling archivist s guidance in room setup collection care and maintenance and other funding for archival supplies Currently the Colon Township Library and the Colon Historical Society are working on transferring all books and documents from the museum to the new secure environmentally stable local history room The Historical Society members are also working to organize materials work toward the digitization of collections and create a space for researching local sources The local history room will be open to the public in the Summer of 2023 The Branch County Community Foundation grant jump started this project The Colon Historical Society and the Colon Township Library felt supported in this endeavor knowing that they had an ally in the Community Foundation that wanted to preserve protect and share local information just as much as they wanted to 16 Julie Censke Colon Township Library BRANCH COUNTY COMMUNITY FOUNDATION 2021 2022 ANNUAL REPORT 17

HELP HOPE FOR HOMELESS TEENS I have lived at Teen Share for over two months Teen Share has helped me gain my confidence and learn to be independent I am grateful that there is this program Without it the homeless teen population would struggle It has been a fun experience helping pick out items for teen share and it is nice to make it more of a home environment It is comforting that they take pride in the houses and I am excited to be part of this new project and help where I can 18 BRANCH COUNTY COMMUNITY FOUNDATION Teen Share Resident 2021 2022 ANNUAL REPORT 19

Teen SHARE Student Housing and Resource Exchange is a homeless shelter and program for teenagers in Branch County and the surrounding areas that has served as a haven for homeless teens since 1996 It is a program of the Branch County Coalition Against Domestic and Sexual Violence Teen Share provides housing for twelve in two ranch style homes that accommodate six teens each Boys and girls live in separate houses and come together for group counseling Each teen undergoes individual assessment before being accepted into the program to ensure that the services offered meet their needs BCCF s Youth Advisory Council YAC awarded Teen Share funding to upgrade the living spaces provide engaging activities and help teens develop life skills Interior improvements included new smart televisions in both houses wall art game tables lamps bedding and dishes Outdoor improvements include patio tables and chairs basketball hoops flower boxes bird feeders and a hammock The much needed improvements transformed the living space into a place that feels like a home instead of a shelter The improved more welcoming aesthetics inspire a sense of normalcy at the facilities and help teens in the program take pride in their living space 20 BRANCH COUNTY COMMUNITY FOUNDATION 2021 2022 ANNUAL REPORT 21

SCHOOL THERAPY DOG The Youth Advisory Council awarded Bronson Community Schools a two year grant to fully fund the Emotional Support K9 ESK program for the 2022 2023 and 2023 2024 school years This unique therapeutic resource benefits students from kindergarten through twelfth grade at Bronson Community Schools Maggie the therapy dog spends most of her time at the Jr Sr High but she is available to all grade levels in times of crisis or when a staff member requests its service Maggie received her license in 2017 and began her work as an ESK at Pansophia Academy in Coldwater When Maggie s owner and handler Haley Houtz moved to a position in Bronson Community Schools she knew Maggie would be a great asset there Having a therapy dog in school isn t going to stop kids from feeling sad or experiencing bad things but it will prevent many of them from feeling alone It will also help the school guidance counselors connect with students and hopefully help kids open up to adults around them Maggie s impact on the student body at Bronson Community Schools since the start of the 2022 2023 academic year has been remarkable Haley reports that Maggie has been a tremendous help in bringing students who elope from class or escalate back to the classroom Along with helping calm many new students who have entered the district she has helped de escalate many behavioral situations in the elementary building She provides a calming atmosphere for middle school classrooms as well Maggie has even helped outside of classroom needs supporting students who were in fear of going to dentist appointments 22 BRANCH COUNTY COMMUNITY FOUNDATION 2021 2022 ANNUAL REPORT 23

PINES BEHAVIORAL HEALTH The Community Foundation granted Pines Behavioral Health funding from the Forever Fund for specialized training for Pines Behavioral Health employees who work with vulnerable adults in the community The training focuses on behavioral interventions for individuals with mental illness intellectual or developmental disabilities such as autism or substance use disorders The training provides mental health professionals with skills to de escalate tense situations and turn problem behavior into more functional behavior to decrease incarceration repeated hospitalization and the need for police intervention The advanced training has already proved its value in several real world scenarios In one incident a person with a mental illness left his group home and would not respond Group home employees followed protocol and called the police to persuade the individual to return After 45 minutes without favorable results the police called in the Pines mobile crisis team The specialized training allowed the team to convince the individual to return to their group home within minutes In another instance a youth diagnosed with autism locked himself in his closet The police were called and were going to intervene as trained which meant knocking down the door A mental health professional on the scene quickly grabbed a nearby guitar sat on the youth s bed and began playing The youth heard the music peeked out of the closet door and then came out of the closet in a settled state Together the youth and mental health professional sat on the youth s bed and resolved the situation With the issue resolved the police could return to policing the community As a result of the grant mental health professionals local law enforcement and contracted providers are working together to provide better crisis outcomes for individuals in the community 24 BRANCH COUNTY COMMUNITY FOUNDATION 2021 2022 ANNUAL REPORT 25

CHILD CARE NETWORK Quality and affordable childcare has been an issue in Branch County for several years After the height of the pandemic in 2020 there was a significant drop in in home childcare providers With a recent grant to the Child Care Network the Community Foundation is helping meet this critical need in our community In August 2022 the Branch County Community Foundation saw an opportunity to fund efforts to increase licensed providers in Branch County The Community Foundation made a grant to Child Care Network to assist with the costs associated with opening licensed childcare Within six months the program was supporting the application process of a new in home childcare program in Bronson which would be licensed to provide childcare for twelve children Throughout the licensing process the grant funds were instrumental in enabling the applicant to submit the application and pay for associated costs including the license application fee required health and CPR and safety training and furnace inspection The applicant encountered a potential hiccup in the form of a required 200 zoning application fee The fee was nonrefundable with no guarantee of zoning approval Without the funds to risk on this potential loss the applicant s licensecing process could not continue The Community Foundation Grant funding allowed the Child Care Network to cover the zoning application fee and the provider attended the zoning meeting to advocate for approval 26 BRANCH COUNTY COMMUNITY FOUNDATION 2021 2022 ANNUAL REPORT 27

During the meeting there was pushback from some residents in the community concerned with the potential of additional traffic and the visual impact of having additional play equipment in the applicant s yard Ultimately the zoning board approved the application and stated there was a great need for childcare in the community and it outweighed the presented concerns With this approval the provider was able to complete the licensing orientation and have her final inspection which led to the issuance of a new active childcare program in Branch County With additional grants available for pre licensure the Community Foundation grant allows funding for these programs to get started right away Most pre licensure grants require some extra legwork and then after approval they get the funding which can then be used to cover the costs So while those are also great being able to leverage the Community Foundation grant for funding costs right up front for these applicants is so beneficial 28 BRANCH COUNTY COMMUNITY FOUNDATION Kristy Wood Child Care Network 2021 2022 ANNUAL REPORT 29

YOUTH ADVISORY COUNCIL It was an excellent year for the Youth Advisory Council As things have settled down from the pandemic they have enjoyed returning to in person meetings and the fellowship that comes along with it YAC has representatives from Bronson Coldwater Colon and Quincy serving on the board with members ranging from 7th 12th grade YAC started the year with one of their favorite community service projects Christmas presents YAC partnered with Branch County Coalition Against Domestic and Sexual Violence and shopped for Christmas gifts for families with children With a total budget of 2 000 YAC was able to reach 12 families and sponsor 26 youth throughout Branch County They continued spreading positivity love and kindness for Valentine s Day From elementary through high school each student in the Branch County and Colon School District received a sucker attached to a positive and uplifting comment courtesy of our youth members 30 BRANCH COUNTY COMMUNITY FOUNDATION In the spring YAC created a new program to promote philanthropy in 5th grade classrooms The goal of the program is to give young people first hand experience with philanthropy as they transition to middle school YAC piloted the program with a few select 5th grade classrooms introducing the students to the Community Foundation and Youth Advisory Council local non profits and philanthropy in general Each participating class received a mini grant to fund a classroom or school project In addition each group could choose a nonprofit to receive funding from the youth advisory board Due to the pilot program s success the 5th Grade Philanthropy Project will expand during the upcoming school year with the eventual goal of making it accessible to all 5th grade public school classrooms in the BCCF service area YAC continued contributing to the community s youth throughout the annual grant cycle providing funds for projects supporting mental health equity belonging community building safety literacy and more As summer approached YAC partnered with the ProMedica Telemedicine Clinics located at each of the middle schools and high schools throughout Branch County to support the 2021 2022 ANNUAL REPORT 31

32 physical well being of the youth in the community Through the partnership students received personal care and hygiene items including toothbrushes toothpaste hair combs and brushes soaps shampoos and other necessities As the new school year started in the fall YAC members chose to sponsor help set up and help run the ABC Challenge a local muddy obstacle course event that raises funds for local organizations YAC ended the school year with a dinner and group event at Lake Michigan The summer saw a renewed interest in joining YAC from community youth the largest our current advisors have seen in several years The Youth Advisory Council looks forward to making a significant impact in 2023 as they wrap up their Youth Needs Assessment and continue funding projects that support the issues that matter most to the youth of our communities BRANCH COUNTY COMMUNITY FOUNDATION 2021 2022 ANNUAL REPORT 33

SCHOLARSHIP AWARDS In 2022 the Branch County Community Foundation was honored to award 55 500 in the form of 43 scholarships to local residents pursuing higher education Congratulations to all of the 2022 Community Foundation Scholarship recipients At the Community Foundation the Scholarship Program is especially significant to us because of the way it connects individuals across our communities In most cases scholarship funds exist as a legacy gift or to honor the memory of someone who is no longer with us Either a family is honoring and celebrating their loved one by setting aside funding for others to obtain higher education or an individual left funding in their will or trust so that others would have the opportunity for higher education Helping maintain an individual s or family s legacy of generosity is truly an honor 34 BRANCH COUNTY COMMUNITY FOUNDATION 2021 2022 ANNUAL REPORT 35

GIFTS OF GRAIN The Branch County Community Foundation BCCF and the Branch County 4 H Foundation partnered to create another local option of giving grain and other commodities through the Gifts of Grain program Gifting grain is a familiar concept especially in rural areas enriched with agriculture BCCF knew there was a chance to create this opportunity for local farmers to donate grain or other commodity crops However partnering with another organization to make this giving program successful was key Branch County Gifts of Grain is a community partnership between the Branch County Community Foundation BCCF and the Branch County 4 H Foundation through which donations of grain or other commodity crops benefit both BCCF and the 4 H Foundation The first grain donation was made in February 2022 by Austin Hostetler Austin was involved in 4 H from age ten until 18 and received a scholarship to further his education Austin knew that the Gifts of Grain program would be an easy way to give back to the community and an organization that impacted his life When I heard I could donate to the 4 H Foundation and the Community Foundation by giving grain I knew it would be a good way to give back to both organizations that do great work in the county I grew up in said Austin I hope my donation will help give kids the same opportunities I had while in 4 H In March of 2022 BCCF and the Branch County 4 H Foundation held an event for local farmers to come and learn more about the Gifts of Grain program Shortly after the event the fund received its second donation from Oak Prairie Farms 36 BRANCH COUNTY COMMUNITY FOUNDATION 2021 2022 ANNUAL REPORT 37

It was our pleasure to donate to the Gifts of Grain Fund said Brian Nunemaker We enjoy supporting the youth involved in 4 H 4 H provides the opportunity to gain leadership experience work ethic and responsibility which are great building blocks for the future Along with 4 H we know the importance of the Branch County Community Foundation Said Ron Hostetler We appreciate all of the work they do for our county and the Colon community Gifts of Grain was a great way to support both organizations to better our communities In November Gifts of Grain received its third donation from Keith and Pam Pohl The Pohl s have been involved with 4 H for many years supporting their children and grandchildren We are happy to support both the Branch County Community Foundation and the Branch County 4 H Foundation because both organizations are so influential said Keith Pam added We aren t always aware of our community s current needs so this gift can support both general community needs through BCCF and the youth needs through Branch County 4 H Foundation We are also thrilled with the flexibility and the option to contribute with grain Supporting both BCCF and the Branch County 4 H Foundation helps increase the positive impact in our community The funding is divided equally between BCCF and the Branch County 4 H Foundation The support for BCCF allows increased flexible spending to meet emerging needs and make investments in our community Simultaneously it enables the Branch County 4 H Foundation to offer increased enrichment and leadership opportunities for the youth in our area 38 BRANCH COUNTY COMMUNITY FOUNDATION 2021 2022 ANNUAL REPORT 39

TYPES OF FUNDS COMMUNITY FUNDS Community Funds are flexible funds created to support a broad range of community projects and to meet emerging needs and opportunities and allow the Community Foundation to determine annual recipients COMMUNITY PRIORITIES FUND UNRESTRICTED Donors can create named unrestricted funds to support the current and future quality of life in our area and give the Community Foundation discretion to use the annual income for a broad range of community projects that respond to changing needs The Forever Fund supports the community now and in the future by awarding grants for any project or program that improves the quality of life in Branch County and supporting the Community Foundation s work in our communities The Colon Foundation Fund serves the Colon Michigan area FIELD OF INTEREST FUNDS This type of fund allows donors to identify and support a broad charitable purpose or category of interest such as the arts education or human services or a particular geographic area in the Community Foundation s service area These funds are flexible and allow the Community Foundation to meet emerging needs and opportunities in each interest area THE BRANCH COUNTY LEADERSHIP FUND is an endowed fund that provides vital support for our work in the area of community leadership and collaboration We believe collaboration with other organizations provides a better understanding of community issues leading to better more comprehensive solutions 40 BRANCH COUNTY COMMUNITY FOUNDATION SPECIAL PURPOSE FUNDS Special Purpose Funds allow donors to create funds that support targeted goals or specific charitable organizations DONOR ADVISED With these funds donors work with the Community Foundation by reviewing grant proposals from the Community Foundation and by proposing grants to organizations and projects they discover This partnership increases the breadth and depth of grantmaking impact for both the donor and the Community Foundation Recommendations are referred to the Community Foundation s Board of Directors for approval Advised funds become unrestricted or field of interest upon the death of the donor or at the end of a specified period DESIGNATED Designated Funds are created to support one or more specified organizations that the Donor names at the time the fund is established Distributions from these funds may provide general benefit to a particular organization or may be specified for a specific program or project of the organization AGENCY Agency Funds allow a charitable organization to establish a fund to provide for their general financial support or for specific programs or projects the organization sponsors SCHOLARSHIP The Community Foundation administers scholarship funds through one centralized application process Donors may contribute to the Community Scholarship Fund or with a minimum balance of 25 000 donors can create a separate named fund for scholarships SPECIAL PROJECT The Community Foundation s primary mission is to establish permanent funds However we offer temporary funds as a donor service to assist with distributions of memorial donations or for fundraising efforts that benefit our communities 2021 2022 ANNUAL REPORT 41

WAYS TO GIVE TYPES OF GIFTS ACCEPTED The Branch County Community Foundation is extremely flexible in the types of assets that may be used to make a contribution to an existing fund or start a new fund Donors may contribute gifts during their lifetimes or through wills or trusts And gifts may be made in memory of or in honor of a friend or loved one If you are the age of 70 you can transfer up to 100 000 directly from your individual retirement account IRS to the Branch County Community Foundation tax free If you are 72 or older this gift will count toward your required minimum distribution DAF s are not qualified under this giving option GIFTS OF CASH LIFE INSURANCE POLICIES Gifts of cash are most popular for many people who make smaller contributions to the Foundation The cash gifts contributed each year help the community s endowment funds grow and allow the Community Foundation to expand our support to the community through grants GIFTS OF GRAIN The Branch County Gifts of Grain is a community partnership between the Branch County Community Foundation and the Branch County 4 H Foundation This is a program in which grain or other commodity crops are gifted to benefit both the Branch County Community Foundation and the Branch County 4 H Foundation By gifting grain to the Gifts of Grain Fund you can maximize your tax benefits while also supporting the Branch County Community Foundation and the Branch County 4 H Foundation SECURITIES The Community Foundation gratefully accepts gifts of securities If either public or private securities have appreciated over time the owner may incur substantial capital gains taxes if the stock were sold outright The donation of appreciated securities can offer the donor attractive income tax benefits including relief from capital gains tax liability 42 IRA ROLLOVER OR QUALIFIED CHARITABLE DISTRIBUTION BRANCH COUNTY COMMUNITY FOUNDATION Many people are surprised to learn that their life insurance policies can become a charitable gift Life insurance is usually purchased to protect the family from financial loss due to the death and loss of income of one or more family members Normally the need for life insurance protection lessens as an individual grows older Children are grown self supporting and through college the mortgage has been paid and an estate of other assets has been acquired The insurance has served its original purposes and can become a gift to the Community Foundation The donor receives an immediate tax deduction usually equal to the cash surrender value REAL ESTATE Gifts of real estate can include homes condominiums apartments undeveloped land farmland and rental property Such gifts may help the donor alleviate management costs and responsibilities if the property were held and capital gains tax and broker s fee if the property were sold When you give gifts of real estate the Community Foundation in turn sells the property and depending on the amount contributes the proceeds to an existing fund of your choice or opens or increases your own fund with the income from the sale You receive a charitable tax deduction equal to the fair market value of the property and you pay no capital gains tax on the sale 2021 2022 ANNUAL REPORT 43

PRESERVING ENDOWMENTS AUDITED FINANCIALS FISCAL YEAR 2021 2022 As stewards of over 100 separate endowed funds the Community Foundation converts contributions into community betterment The Community Foundation uses a sound investment strategy designed to maintain the principal balance those gifts and contributions received from the public while maximizing the return on these investments for current grantmaking and future growth purposes To achieve these goals the Community Foundation assumes a level of risk aimed at maximizing investment return but that is consistent with the Uniform Prudent Management of Institutional Funds Act UPMIFA All of the endowment funds of the Community Foundation are pooled for investment purposes They are carefully expertly and responsibly managed in a balanced portfolio according to the Community Foundation s Investment Policy Statement IPS The Community Foundation s investment portfolio is designed with these goals in mind Preserving the inflation adjusted value of the principal Assuring the investments will generate income for maximum distributions back to the community Assuring enough growth to keep pace with inflation The Community Foundation s investment managers are charged with investing dollars based on the Board of Directors approved IPS For investing we value the importance of local partnerships and contract with Century Bank Trust and Southern Michigan Bank Trust We also contract with Arcadia Investment Management Corporation and we hold a fixed income mutual fund at Charles Schwab ASSETS Total Assets by Fund Type Permanent Endowed 6 910 133 00 Non Permanent Non Endowed Total Assets 721 128 00 7 631 261 00 EXPENSES Program Services Grants Scholarships 557 446 00 Fundraising 157 782 00 General Management 34 434 00 Total Expenses 749 662 00 A consistent and completed review of the management and allocation of the Community Foundation resources is one of the highest priorities of operating the Community Foundation as a public trust on behalf of the donors and citizens of this community a responsibility that is taken with the greatest sense of seriousness and professionalism To assist us with monitoring managers adherence to the IPS and performance of their portfolios the Community Foundation works with GEM Asset Management an independent financial planning and investment advisory firm Independent auditors evaluate the financial position of the entire endowment including investment activity on an annual basis In addition to wise investment strategies we preserve and grow our permanent endowments by limiting the distribution each year Currently the maximum amount available each fiscal year for spending grants and fees is up to 5 of the market value over an average of 20 quarters 44 BRANCH COUNTY COMMUNITY FOUNDATION Key indicators are extracted from annually audited financial statements and exclude inter fund gifts and grants A copy of our 990 and audited financial statements are available on our website or upon request 2021 2022 ANNUAL REPORT 45

LEGACY SOCIETY MEMBERS GIFTS IN HONOR Robert Bridget Mayer In Honor of Five Star Pizza Carl Thornton Patricia Klein Shoemaker Hal Lillian Creal Marvin M Rosenberg Marcelyn L Labelle Dr Raymond Mary Jo Kranz Colleen Knight Donna Craun Cowden Suzanne Vozar Indicates deceased 46 BRANCH COUNTY COMMUNITY FOUNDATION In Honor of Kirsten Anthony Lucas Gianna Bernadine Allen In Honor of all the wonderful volunteers in the community Pamela Reed In Honor of Anne Marso Virginia Marso In Honor of Callie Jasper Curt R Ruth Proctor In Honor of Colleen Knight Lynne M Haley In Honor of Eva Schaurer Jan Rhoade In Honor of Julie Censke Thomas Clare Schmelzer In Honor of Kim Hemker Kirk Kashian In Honor of Mike Dawn Mack Tom Deanne Rathburn Dick Sharon Dibert and Marty Emily Chard Dianne Parkison In Honor of Nick Hemker Tom Kim Hemker In Honor of Patti Miller Pamela Reed 2021 2022 ANNUAL REPORT 47

48 GIFTS IN MEMORY GIFTS IN MEMORY In Memory of Barbara Farber John Jan Eichel In Memory of Jim Stout In Memory of Doris Dodie Crumpton Dave Beth Hoppe In Memory of Dorothy Ruelle Erica Gentz In Memory of Evon Pluister Diane E Godfrey In Memory of Frances Thornton Stutzman Martha Stutzman In Memory of Gene Wallace Paul Connie Winbigler Alan Melissa Wilder Lyle Joyce Otis Bucklin Family Dentistry Marilyn Egnatoski Case Welding Fabrication Mark Teri Knapp Connie Michael Richardson Mark Rachelle Clemens David Carol Coyle Nora Richard McLatcher Dennis Jill Dirschell Paul Debbie Landis Douglas Marlene Gallu Pieter Gail Doerr G David Rubley Ray Jacqueline Maxson Glenn Alice Brodt Rick R Lynn M Paul Harry s Transmission Inc Robert Kimberly Lane James R Vozar Insurance Agency Inc Robert Linda Stewart Janice Murphy Sheila Lloyd Walrack John Doris George In Memory of Helen Jean Brayton Mashaun Schabloski Thomas Capua In Memory of Henry Hanson Martha Graham In Memory of Irma English Doug Ann Reiter In Memory of Jane Gaylor Smith John Jan Eichel John Towe Leslie Walp John Rohloff Joan McKinnon Karen Buys Karen Downs Kathryn Springer Katie Weis Memorial Scholarship Foundation Keith Insa Raymond Larry Susan Smith Linda Myers Rosemary Rial Sandra From Shelly Bowen Slack Family Stephen Gaglio Steven Valerie Medendorp Terri Plotas Thomas Marshall Todd Teresa Brayton Walton Janet Lane William Gerianne Post In Memory of Jane Randall Anonymous BRANCH COUNTY COMMUNITY FOUNDATION 2021 2022 ANNUAL REPORT 49

50 GIFTS IN MEMORY GIFTS IN MEMORY In Memory of John French Mallory VanWagner In Memory of Mr Mrs Gerald Arnold Patricia Morrill In Memory of Kendra J Thrasher Donald Thrasher In Memory of Officer Richard Robillard Nancy Sprow In Memory of Kenneth Stutzman Martha Stutzman In Memory of Peter Stutzman Martha Stutzman In Memory of Larry Fraser John A Downey In Memory of Lee Helen Jean Brayton Jo Ann Farris In Memory of Lonna Burch Judy Bushouse In Memory of Loran Fickle Sunset Cove In Memory of Luella Senker Linda Wood In Memory of Mary Lou Mahood Carol Mohrlock Diane Epps Eileen Haley John Julie Abe Melissa Sussex Richard C Marcia L Wilcox In Memory of Maureen Petzko William Karen Malatinsky BRANCH COUNTY COMMUNITY FOUNDATION In Memory of Puppet The Yellow Lab Curt R Ruth Proctor In Memory of Reathel Walker Deanna Walker In Memory of Robert Tardiff Pamela Barnes Allen Goldberg In Memory of Ruth Bruder Anonymous Dave Beth Hoppe In Memory of Sherry Lutterbeck Jerry L Lutterbeck In Memory of Tami Fickle Sparks Sunset Cove In Memory of Tommy Olmstead Christina Macdonald Katherine Olmstead In Memory of Virginia Tenney Tom Christine Tenney 2021 2022 ANNUAL REPORT 51

DONORS DONORS A Keely A Beemer C Barbara Ann Contat Anonymous Ronald Kay Bercaw Kattia M Cabrera Cheryl Covell John Julie Abe Shannon Bir Calvary Supply Integrated LLC Michele Coy Kristie Ackerman Daniel or Martha Biteman Thomas Capua David Carol Coyle Paula AcMoody Melissa Blakely Clyde Mary Carlisle Gary Kathy Crandall Marcia Albright Bruce Melinda Bloom Case Welding Fabrication Creative Web Designing Inc Bernadine Allen Ann Boltz Jeffrey Case Michael G Alice J Crenshaw Salwa Alsuraimi Shelly Bowen Julie Mike Censke Cummings Family Foundation Altrusa International Inc of Branch County Bruce Danelle Bowers William Sharon Chinery Aaron Cummings AmazonSmile Foundation Branch County Amateur Radio Club City of Coldwater D Asama Coldwater Manufacturing Branch County Chapter of MARSP Michael Clark Denise Dach Justin W Sarah M Asher Branch County Coalition Against Domestic Sexual Violence Mark Rachelle Clemens Damiron Truck Center Cliff Sons Heating Cooling Sandra Davis Branch County United Way Joseph Closson Randy Patty Degroot James Brauker Teresa Cohen Christine Kenneth Delaney Todd Teresa Brayton Coldwater Auto Service Sharon Demeester Ray Fran Bregger Coldwater Housing Commission Carl Brenda Demlow Janet Breza Coldwater Noon Club Dennis Jill Dirschell Glenn Alice Brodt Coldwater Sunrise Rotary Projects Kay Dirschell Bucklin Family Dentistry Becky Cole Dan Judy Dobson Judy Bushouse Dennis Cole Peter Gail Doerr Karen Buys James Pamela Cole Leo Romaine Dollar Mellissa Connin JoEllen Donay Antesar Azookari B B B Vending Machine Co Keith Baker Alison Bassage Lori Bassage Cynthia Baughman Rosa Bazyluk Becker Eye Care Patrick Beeman 52 BRANCH COUNTY COMMUNITY FOUNDATION 2021 2022 ANNUAL REPORT 53

DONORS John A Downey Karen Downs Firehouse Clean Power Washing LLC Mary Fisher E Jane Ford Julianna Eagan Brooke Foster Kathy Earl Laney Christopher Economou Eden Bridge Foundation Marilyn Egnatoski John Jan Eichel Thomas G Eldridge Brian Hillary Eley Diane Epps Dylan Jodi Foster Alan Fouty Brenda Fowler Brent Frank David Cheryl Franks James Anne Freiburger Sandra From Rick Furney Rachel Everett G F Fair Square Heating Hair LLC Jo Ann Farris Robert Linda French Jack Kathleen Ferguson Samantha Ferry Stephen Gaglio Douglas Marlene Gallup Wava Jean Gano Ashley Garl Juli Gary Erica Gentz Mary M Fetters Margaret Fillmore Suzanne Fillmore Charlene Fincham 54 DONORS John Doris George Don Sue Allison Kyle Germann Julie Gibson BRANCH COUNTY COMMUNITY FOUNDATION Pamela Gilbert Harry s Transmission Inc Diane E Godfrey Mary Haupt Allen Goldberg Marshelle Hawver Ted Cathy Gordon Lori Heitman Nicholas Janice Grabowski Erica Samuel Heminger Martha Graham Ashley Hemker Daniel Kayla Gray Daniel Marie Hemker Ralph E Sue Ann Greenamyer Tom Kim Hemker Evelyn A Corbin W Grimes Philip Herman Polly Grimmer Randy Janet Herriman Gary Groenendyk Donielle Hetrick Mary L Guthrie Leigh Ann Hicks H Donna Hines Mark Hacker Farms Michael Bonita Hoffner Eileen Haley Susan Hopkins Lynne M Haley Dave Beth Hoppe Nancy Halverson Austin Madison Hostetler Laurie Hammond Joseph Karen Hughes Cathy Hansen Shawn Hulin Mike Hard I Rachel Hard Walter Marjorie Inde Marjorie Bob Harris Linda Ives 2021 2022 ANNUAL REPORT 55

DONORS J L Virginia Marso William Michelle Milnes James R Vozar Insurance Agency Inc Dr Edward Lake Brian Marteen Carol Mohrlock Todd Lancaster Gina Martin Kayla Monville Paul Debbie Landis Fredrick Linda Mason Elaine J Moore Robert Kimberly Lane Eliene J Matheson Parks Mark E Delores A Morgano Walton Janet Lane Stephen Mattin Patricia Morrill Tyler Lien Ray Jacqueline Maxson John Motz Charles Jayne Lillis Robert Bridget Mayer Bob Barb Mullally Zoe E Livermore Dennis O McCafferty David Deanna Mumby Longarnder Excavating LLC Candace McClaid Jan Murphy Joseph Lisa Lopez Mary Michael McConnell Linda Musall Marcie Love Nora Richard McLatcher Linda Myers Karen Lowder Tonie McMaster N Marisela Lozano Mary McRae LeeAnne Nagle Kandice Kielliszewski Jerry L Lutterbeck Steven Valerie Medendorp Kenneth Christine King M Richard Kathleen Merrill Nichols Accounting Tax Service LLC R Scott Carol Kirkpatrick Christina Macdonald Jill Knaack William Karen Malatinsky Mark Teri Knapp Lynette Mallow Colleen Knight Marvin Betty Malovey Thomas E Kolassa Thomas Manning Marc R Kramer Angela Marks Judy Krzeminski Thomas Marshall Tim Kris Jenkins Ronald E Joy E Johns Douglas Mary Jo Johnson Nate Johnson Joshua D Carrie L Jones K Kirk Kashian Katie Weis Memorial Scholarship Foundation Elizabeth Kelley Tracy Kelley Constance Kennedy 56 DONORS BRANCH COUNTY COMMUNITY FOUNDATION Midwest Optometry Group PLLC Arielle Norris Brian Amanda Miller James Marion Miller Kevin Patti Miller Kimberley Nichols Dale N Roberta J Norton Michael F Ann M Nowicki Kurt Lisa Miller O Wayne Karen Miller Oak Prairie Farms Jennifer Milligan William Tirsha Odisher 2021 2022 ANNUAL REPORT 57

DONORS DONORS Beverly Ohm Q S Josephine Smith Scott Ohm Susan Quiter S D Landscape Irrigation Julie Smith Katherine Olmstead R Kelsie Smith Oriole Automotive Alan Rakocy Patricia D Lewis Sandra R Reichhart Francisco Melanie Ortiz Keith Insa Raymond Lyle Joyce Otis Pamela Reed Mark A Janet Lee Ott Doug Ann Reiter Anne Virginia Oxenrider Jan Rhoade P Rosemary Rial Dianne Parkison Connie Michael Richardson Ralph Parlin Diane Riegel Ron Ruth Patch Bernadette Rieger Rick R Lynn M Paul Janet R James R Robinson Carly Payne John Rohloff Joan McKinnon Kristi Prelissier Rose Lake Association John Petzko Marvin M Rosenberg Stephen Marlene Phillips Walter Mary Rosenberry Terri Plotas Cynthia Rowe Sallie Donald Pope Royalty Fence Deck LLC William Gerianne Post G David Rubley Carrie Preston LaVerne Rzyski Theresa Price Curt R Ruth Proctor 58 BRANCH COUNTY COMMUNITY FOUNDATION David Janice Sattler Jill Smoker Mashaun Schabloski Mikeal Smoker Jennifer Scheinfeldt Heather Sobek Thomas Clare Schmelzer Donna Schroeder Michael Charlene Searing Jennifer Searls David Janine Sharrard Kevin Michelle Sheppard Marlin Joan Shiery Darlene Starr Janette Stephens Trust Julia Stetler Robert Linda Stewart Zon R Shumway Janice Storrs Matthew Kendra Siefken Bryan Smith Kathryn Springer Shelby Stanley Shaffmasters U Store N Lock Jill Sluyter Randy Sowles Nancy Sprow Krista Searls Slack Family Joseph Susan Sobeske Southern Michigan Bank Trust Scott Fair Insurance Agency LLC Skate Ranch Larry Susan Smith Mary Strain Julie Stratos Norbert P Strobel Stryker Corporation Sturgis Bank Trust 2021 2022 ANNUAL REPORT 59

DONORS Martha Stutzman Mallory VanWagner Francis Wendi Williams Sunset Cove Theresa Vrij Helen Williams Super Liquor II W Melissa Sussex Kathleen Waligora Angelea Swihart 60 DONORS Casey Walker Paul Connie Winbigler Brittany Wisman Karen Michael Wood Linda Wood T Deanna Walker Douglas Jennifer Targgart Joanne Walker Dan Sheila Taylor Walmart Foundation Lois Tell John Towe Leslie Walp Z Tom Christine Tenney Sheila Lloyd Walrack Mary Ann Zimmerman David Terrasi Anna Watkins The Storage Bin Inc John Virginia Watkins Carl Thornton Cynthia Thomas Watson David Thornton David Weber Ray Connie Thrams Brent Margaret Weigle Donald H Thrasher Larry Weikart Renee Timar John Wellet Alfred Melissa Tremblay Richard L Wendorf Rebecca M Troust William Darlene West V Charles Amy Whitaker Barbara Vainner Sally Whitten Value Max Products LLC Richard C Marcia L Wilcox Shirley John C Vandam Alan Melissa Wilder BRANCH COUNTY COMMUNITY FOUNDATION Elaine A Woodcox Kenneth Judy Wyant 2021 2022 ANNUAL REPORT 61

LIFETIME DONORS LIFETIME DONORS Philanthropist 1 000 000 Rotary Foundation Thomas E Kolassa Coldwater Cardinal Booster Club Council of Michigan Foundations James Barbara Edgett Mary Jo Kranz Coldwater Noon Exchange Club F Harold Lillian Creal Glema Jones Trust James Kathleen Litton Emory Sechrist Scholarship Trust Max Larsen Trust Marcie Love Rosella McLaughlin James Anne Freiburger Ms Dorothy Mannerow Michigan Association of Retired School Personnel Bill Geiger Humanitarian 500 000 Branch Hillsdale St Joseph County Health Plan Thomas Bott Trust Dan Judy Dobson Ambassador 50 000 Anonymous Asama Coldwater Manufacturing M Marie Bettinger Emerson Bruce Melinda Bloom Visionary 250 000 Colon Community Schools Blaque Arlouine Knirk Rand Linda McNitt Irrevocable Trust Southern Michigan Bank Trust Richard L Wendorf Designer 100 000 Estate of Joseph Bakle Phyllis Bronson Lucile Burnside Estate John Broker Marvin M Rosenberg Dr Mrs G David Rubley Patricia Klein Shoemaker Dr C C Ann L Wu Klein Investments D Lynn Carolyn Jo Mayer Robert Bridget Mayer Dr Mary R Moore Estate of Jerry Lee Morton Champion 25 000 Rolph Carlisle Charitable Trust Altrusa International of Branch County Coldwater Kiwanis Anonymous Coldwater Noon Club Colon Foundation Max W Benjamin Charitable Remainder Unitrust Crotty Corporation Branch Area Careers Center Cummings Family Foundation Branch County Coalition Against Domestic Sexual Violence Eden Bridge Foundation Kiwanis Club of Colon Walter Otis Presbyterian Health Clinic of Branch County Curt R Ruth Proctor Gary Lorinda Ratkowski Stanley H Reeder Jr Irrevocable Trust Sandra Rice Remus Donna Rigg Wava Jean Gano Branch Intermediate School District Elmer Doris Houghton Jennifer Brown John Marguerite Kenyon Scholarship Trust Gonsala Cardenas Sturgis Bank Trust Colon Banking Center Century Bank Trust Walmart Foundation Coldwater Township Sunrise Jeffrey Schragg Indicates deceased 62 BRANCH COUNTY COMMUNITY FOUNDATION 2021 2022 ANNUAL REPORT 63

LIFETIME DONORS LIFETIME DONORS Sponsor 10 000 Development Authority James Janice Koss James Sandra Rice Alchem Aluminum Coldwater Sunrise Rotary Projects Marcelyn LaBelle Knight Iona H Robbins Alliance Foods Inc Coldwater Township Sunrise Rotary Club Dr Edward Lake Robert Corson Trust Larsen Unitrust R David Rumsey Charles Jayne Lillis Phillip Jeanette Sattler Livonia Tool Inc Schipper Funeral Home LTD Lloyd Vera Luce Trust Estate Ted Schipper Richard Kathleen Merrill William Patricia Klein Shoemaker Michigan State University Sintered Metal Products Inc Midwest Optometry Group PLLC Janette Stephens Trust Kevin Patti Miller Timothy Marha Stutzman Monarch Community Bank Robert Elizabeth Teeter Dr Charles Susan Morton Mr John Teeter Dale N Roberta J Norton Tom Christine Tenney William Oates Donald H Thrasher Mark A Janet Lee Ott Tibbits Opera Foundation Raymond Pontoni Vanguard LLC Gokoh Coldwater Inc ProMedica Coldwater Regional Hospital Foundation Eugene Sharon Wallace Ted Cathy Gordon Quincy Community Schools Hillquist Family Foundation Quincy Rotary Club Wilbur Allie Hostetler Wayne Christine Reese Mildred G Hutchins Trust Jan Rhoade Anonymous Paul Kathy Bair Communities for Youth on the Edge of Success Dr Peter Mrs Baldwin Consumers Energy Foundation David Sharon Bates Corporation for Supportive Housing Bloom Farms LLC Gordon Bowerman Family Branch County Great Start Collaborative Ray Fran Bregger Bronson Alumni Association Bronson Community Schools Ross D Marilyn L Byers Edward Nancy Callahan Barry Jo Ann Case Dr Bosco Lynda Chan City of Coldwater Clemens Family Corporation Coldwater American Amateur Baseball Congress Feder Coldwater Board of Public Utilities County Health Plan of BranchHillsdale St Joseph Dennis Jennifer Dafnis Steve Mary Ann Dobson Early Bird Exchange Club Robert Linda French G W Display Fixtures Joe Karen Ganger Ricky L Gates Raymond Cindy Gentz Paul Connie Winbigler Wisconsin Public Service Foundation Coldwater Downtown Indicates deceased 64 BRANCH COUNTY COMMUNITY FOUNDATION 2021 2022 ANNUAL REPORT 65

IN CLOSING We hope you found joy and inspiration in the stories shared in this annual report Everyone can make a difference Whatever cause is close to your heart the Community Foundation can help When you partner with us we ll help you turn your passion into action and achieve your philanthropic goals So tell us What s your vision for Branch County and Colon 66 BRANCH COUNTY COMMUNITY FOUNDATION 2021 2022 ANNUAL REPORT 67

BRANCH COUNTY COMMUNITY FOUNDATION 2 WEST CHICAGO STREET SUITE E1 COLDWATER MI 49036 517 278 4517 INFO BRCOFOUNDATION ORG 68 BRANCH COUNTY COMMUNITY FOUNDATION