From the Desk of Diane Banks, Executive Director

We have a window of opportunity right now.

Last month, I had the honor of presenting to the Macomb County Board of Commissioners, requesting that a portion of Macomb County’s American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds be allocated to Advancing Macomb to support nonprofit organizations throughout Macomb County.

I reshared Advancing Macomb’s widely publicized research, conducted for us by the Johnson Center for Philanthropy, which found that Macomb County’s nonprofit sector is dramatically underserved and underfunded, as compared with other counties of our size and other counties in our region.

Macomb County’s nonprofit disparities are significantly impacting the quality of life for our residents. Strong nonprofit ecosystems create strong and thriving communities. Without them, we cannot address the pressing needs of our communities. Importantly, we cannot have true economic success.

Advancing Macomb is a respected, influential and strategically connected regional organization. We are well-positioned to correct these nonprofit disparities in Macomb County by leveraging public support with private and philanthropic investments.

We are requesting that a small percentage of ARPA funds be allocated to Advancing Macomb as a seed investment. This funding will allow us to:

• Grow and strengthen Macomb County nonprofit organizations through a high-impact nonprofit incubation program.
• Establish and grow endowed funds for projects and initiatives that enhance the quality of life for Macomb County residents.
• Secure the long-term sustainability of our mission.

Macomb County leadership, including the Board of Commissioners, has a unique opportunity to partner with an organization that will improve the lives of residents and strengthen our communities for years to come. We are the right organization – in the right place at the right time – to activate positive and permanent change

We hope our county leaders agree.

A special thank you to our board of directors and all who continue to support us in our quest to advance Macomb.

For details on our research study: Macomb County Ranks Last for Nonprofits, According to New Advancing Macomb Study