News Archives

Erica Heminger, Executive Director of the Branch County Community Foundation and Dr. Patrick McKerr, Superintendent of Union City Schools. The Branch County Community Foundation is excited to introduce a new fund that creates even more opportunities for local educators to inspire the next generation of learners: the Union City Educator Curiosity Fund. With the addition of this unique mini-grant fund, every school district in Branch County now has a grant opportunity dedicated

The Branch County Community Foundation is pleased to welcome Reuben Fronczak, a senior at Coldwater High School and current President of the Youth Advisory Council, to its Board of Directors. Reuben brings a strong record of leadership and service through his involvement in academics, extracurricular activities, Boy Scouts, and community volunteerism. As the Foundation continues its mission of strengthening Branch County and Colon through philanthropy, Reuben’s perspective as

Trust in action: Your favorite nonprofits know what they need What if one of the best ways to support your favorite nonprofits is to trust the people closest to the work? We’re taking a practical look at trust-based philanthropy, including unrestricted and multi-year giving, listening to nonprofits, and ways the community foundation can help you put these ideas into action. As always, thank you for the opportunity to work together as you support the causes and organizations t

High fives for IRAs, QCDs, and charitable planning IRAs and other retirement accounts can be powerful charitable planning tools, but the rules can be confusing. We’re sharing five important things to know about QCDs and retirement assets—plus a bonus reminder about how the community foundation can work alongside you and your advisors.

It’s October, which means year-end planning is already underway. From QCDs and bunching to appreciated assets, a new deduction for non-itemizers, and long-term charitable plans, here are five charitable giving reminders worth repeating with clients before December 31.

Did you know that the Branch County Community Foundation is your Community Foundation?

This year's YAC had their first meeting September. This year, YAC welcomes seven new members, bringing a fresh perspective and enthusiasm to the group. Together, the council represents students from Bronson, Coldwater, Colon, Union City and Quincy, creating a diverse group of young leaders dedicated to making a positive impact throughout Branch County and Colon.

October’s National Estate Planning Awareness Week is a good reminder that an estate plan involves much more than a will. If charitable giving is part of the legacy you envision, learn how wills, trusts, beneficiary designations, retirement accounts, and charitable funds can work together to carry out your wishes.

In June 2026, BCCF accepted grant applications through the Nola & George Cummings Family Foundation Fund, which was established to support academic enrichment and enhancement opportunities for Colon Community Schools students. The funds give special consideration to projects involving the arts, drama, and special education.

Welcome to the Great Wealth Transfer! This much-cited era, happening right now, is reportedly the time when trillions of dollars will pass from one generation to the next over the coming decades in various forms, ranging from cash and stock to real estate and business interests.

it’s important to check in on your charitable goals for 2026 before fall gets into full swing. Otherwise, you may find yourself scrambling to synchronize tax planning, financial planning, and gifts to favorite nonprofits.

Region 8 launces new funder focused roadmap for childcare solutions.

The Branch County Community Foundation helps individuals, families, and business owners align their charitable giving with causes that strengthen the community. As part of that work, the Foundation assists business owners in exploring how charitable gifts can be incorporated into succession planning, helping maximize both philanthropic impact and legacy. The Foundation serves as a resource for business owners and their professional advisors in navigating these charitable plan

Nonprofit leaders often cite board engagement as one of their biggest challenges. Beyond recruiting qualified members, organizations must find people who are passionate about the mission, willing to give their time, and committed to serving as effective ambassadors.

Quite frequently, parents and grandparents share with us their hopes of passing along to the next generation more than just financial assets. They want to pass along values, encourage generosity, and foster a lifelong commitment to community.

Learn how introducing your advisors to the community foundation team can strengthen collaboration and uncover new charitable planning opportunities.

2026 Year End YAC Dinner

The 2026 Mini Grant recipients for Bronson, Coldwater, and Quincy.

The Branch County Community Foundation is proud to announce that in 2026, we are awarding $80,500 in scholarships to students pursuing higher education.

Meet the Newest Addition to the BCCF Team