2024 Annual Report
Equity
CMF seeks to embolden and equip Michigan philanthropy in the relentless pursuit of equitable systems and the embrace of inclusive diversity.
In 2024, CMF amplified the many practices Michigan philanthropy is embracing to advance equity and racial equity by bridging divides and gathering people across ideologies and lived experiences. Through shared learning and conversation spaces we have explored what is possible when we are candid about race, culture and identity, why embracing our shared humanity is so important and how we can reckon with our past as a step toward healing and creating common ground. CMF remains steadfast in our commitment to equity—to help our community of philanthropy work to address inequities and create spaces of understanding and belonging.
Leading Boldly
Following the 2024 general election which signaled significant changes at the state and federal levels, CMF provided resources and learning opportunities about the critical roles philanthropy can play in bridging divides and engaging in policy and advocacy to continue our work alongside communities for a more equitable Michigan for all.
A wave of Executive Orders (EOs) and other actions and communications from the federal administration in early 2025 have called for the eradication of diversity, equity and inclusion efforts across an array of policies and structures, eliminating staffing, supports and related resources, threating the charitable sector.
To help you navigate this uncertainty, in March 2025, CMF launched a new evolving resource hub on our website, providing you with access to relevant resources, timely news, and opportunities for action. The tools, resource guides and insights from the sector have been curated to support Michigan philanthropy and to share in outreach to your nonprofit partners. Explore the Resource Hub.
Curated Equity Resources
As a CMF member, you have access to our growing online hub of Curated Equity Resources, including self-assessments, shared language and glossaries, insights from the field, land acknowledgments and much more. Check out new, featured resources now available for download! Explore Curated Equity Resources.
Equity Signature Series
The Equity Signature Series is an annual slate of virtual programming CMF has developed with the support of thought leaders in Michigan and around the country. These conversations provide space to ask ourselves the hard questions, challenge our thinking, inspire action and lift up the work of foundations, nonprofits and other peers and partners as we learn from and with each other on our journeys to advance equity. Stay tuned to the events calendar for upcoming programs that deeply explore the ways that we can, and must, advance systemic change together. Explore the full series through our on-demand recordings.
Featured Blogs
Advancing Equitable Solutions for Latinx Populations in MI and Abroad
By Roxana Martinelli, member of CMF’s Latinx Affinity Network and program manager of New Economy Initiative, a program of the Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan
Reflecting on a Century: The Kresge Foundation's Journey from Past to Future
By Rip Rapson, president and CEO of The Kresge Foundation
Our Collective Equity Journey
Throughout 2024, we shared stories of how CMF members are exploring and embracing equity at their own organizations, both internally and through their work with and in communities.
Delta Dental Foundation Centers Oral Health Equity for People with Disabilities in New Strategic Plan
Building a Community of Trust: Community Foundation for Muskegon County's Internal Equity Journey
Preserving Historic Black Resort Communities in Michigan
National Day of Racial Healing
“We encourage you to listen to diverse voices — including those of people who have been overlooked, forgotten, and excluded, and who are facing persistent threats to their lives and livelihoods. We call on you to repair our tattered social fabric and help our democracy live up to its ideals. And we stand ready to work with you to move our country forward and increase opportunity for all who call it home.”
Sakura Takano
CMF Trustee
CEO
Rotary Charities of Traverse City
“CMF is able to provide us with a stable foundation that is consistently there for what individual organizations need as they’re dealing with the ebbs and flows that come with doing this work. [It is] knowing that you have somebody who is steadfast in their commitment to Michigan philanthropy and equity who we know will be there to assist, lift up and support us as we’re along this journey.”
Todd M. Jacobs
President & CEO
Community Foundation for Muskegon County
“CMF is a key sector partner in [our organization’s] efforts. The Steelcase Foundation and CMF have aligned values, and leveraging the CMF Annual Conference, Equity Signature Series, and conversations throughout the year are excellent platforms for philanthropic organizations to explore new ideas, exchange learning, address concerns or wonderings, give and receive accountability for operationalizing those values, and partner for greater impact.”
Daniel Williams
CMF Trustee
President & CEO
Steelcase Foundation
