For 40 years the Community Foundation of Monroe County has had the privilege of supporting the Monroe County community through thoughtful philanthropy. As we reflect on this fortieth year of service, we celebrate another milestone of awarding more than $1,000,000 in grants and scholarships to our community this year. This was accomplished thanks to many generous donors who have established over 100 funds with us. We are proud to assist individuals, families and businesses fulfill their charitable goals by establishing endowed funds with us for these purposes. We take stewardship of these funds very seriously by making sure they remain on in perpetuity.
During 2018 the Community Foundation took a very active role in addressing many community issues. One of our largest responses was an investment of $100,000 in a partnership with Catholic Charities and ProMedica Monroe Regional Hospital to establish the St. Joseph Center of Hope on the ProMedica campus. The Center is a crisis intervention facility that provides a supervised, supportive setting for individuals with substance use and co-occurring disorders as an alternative to emergency care and/or a jail setting.
Another cutting-edge investment was made in Monroe Public Schools. With a $100,000 grant Monroe Public School is better equipped to combat illness by acquiring five kiosks that feature tele-health technology. With this new system, an elementary student who is not feeling well can see a trained staff member and access a district school nurse or health liaison via a tele-health kiosk.
Through these investments and other grants and activities, we are poised to encourage positive lasting change in our community. We also continue to build awareness about pressing issues — among these are the improvements on the River Raisin Heritage Trail – and we are directing our attention to assist our older population cope with the challenges of aging.
Please enjoy the contents of our website featuring more detailed information about our projects and community involvement. On behalf of the staff and Board of the Community Foundation, I want to thank you for your past and current support. We invite you to contact us to learn how we can work together to accomplish your charitable goals. We are here to help you in your philanthropic efforts and creating a better future for everyone.
Kathleen Russeau
Executive Director