Children’s Trauma Assessment Group (CTAG) provides comprehensive neuropsychological trauma assessments for children across St. Joseph County, offering tailored care recommendations to families and service providers. Grant funds for its “Technology to Care and Protect” project, CTAG will install upgraded audio and visual technology in its new location within the St. Joseph County United Way building. This enhanced equipment will strengthen the quality of trauma assessments and support the establishment of a child-centered space for forensic interviews, allowing children to receive critical services close to home and in a safe and private environment.

Main Street Media Group, the nonprofit behind Watershed Voice, is dedicated to providing trustworthy, solution-focused journalism that keeps St. Joseph County residents informed and engaged. With support for its “Community New Coalition” initiative, the organization is strengthening local news coverage by funding a team of journalists and engagement staff who produce weekly stories on critical issues such as placemaking, civic participation, and community wellbeing. These stories are shared online and across partner media outlets, providing free, equitable access to reliable local reporting that helps build a more informed and connected community.

Youth For Christ of Southwest Michigan serves local teens through mentorship, faith-based programming, and community-building activities. To enhance its newly built outdoor recreation space, the organization will apply a professional sport court surface to its public-use basketball and pickleball courts. The upgrade will improve safety, durability, and playability—transforming the cement courts into a high-quality, long-lasting gathering place for youth, families, and neighbors alike. This project boosts wellbeing by providing free, accessible recreation that encourages physical activity, social connection, and local pride.

YMCA Camp Eberhart, part of the YMCA of Greater Michiana, offers hands-on outdoor learning experiences that help students build confidence, teamwork, and environmental awareness. Through its Outdoor Education program, the camp provides thousands of K-12 students in St. Joseph County with immersive opportunities to explore nature, engage in STEM-based activities, and develop leadership skills. Funding will support the program through updated curriculum, essential equipment, and transportation for participating schools—ensuring that more youth can benefit from high-quality outdoor learning designed to inspire curiosity and strengthen academic and personal growth.

The Sturgis Area Business Education Alliance (SABEA) connects local businesses and schools to provide meaningful career exploration and workforce readiness opportunities for K-12 students. Through career fairs, mentor meetings, mock interviews, business partner events, and hands-on experiences like “Freshman for a Day,” SABEA equips students with the skills and confidence needed for life after graduation. Program funds will support the continued coordination of these initiatives, helping maintain strong partnerships and consistent programming that prepare students for postsecondary education, training, or skilled employment—building the future workforce of St. Joseph County.

Hope United offers safe, supportive, and confidential shelter and resources for individuals experiencing domestic and sexual violence throughout St. Joseph County. Amanda’s House, its emergency shelter, provides immediate refuge and safety for survivors and their children. Funds for this project will be used to install a perimeter fence around the shelter, creating a secure outdoor space where residents can spend time outside without compromising their safety. This enhancement is essential to maintaining Amanda’s House as a healing and protective environment for those seeking a fresh start.

Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) of Southwest Michigan recruits and trains volunteer advocates to support children in the foster care and welfare system, ensuring their voices are heard in court and their needs are prioritized. Funding for this program will support the ongoing recruitment, training, and supervision of volunteer advocates serving St. Joseph County youth. By expanding its reach and building program resources, CASA aims to provide individualized, consistent advocacy that helps children navigate complex legal and social service systems and move more quickly toward safe, permanent homes.

Girl Scouts Heart of Michigan supports girls in grades K-12 across St. Joseph County through hands-on experiences that build confidence, leadership skills, and lifelong values. Through programs focused on STEM, outdoor adventure, financial literacy, and community service, Girl Scouts help girls discover their potential and make a positive impact. Funding will help expand these opportunities locally by supporting program delivery, volunteer coordination, and financial assistance for memberships and activity fees, making these experiences accessible to every girl, regardless of income or circumstance.

The Sturgis Area Community Foundation is a $41M foundation committed to serving the charitable needs of our community and enriching the quality of life for all people in the Sturgis area. Through philanthropic services, strategic investments, and community leadership, the Sturgis Area Community Foundation helps people support the causes they care about now and for generations.

For more information on grants or donor services, email sacf@sturgisfoundation.org.