In 2018, members of the Pontiac Funders Collaborative united to explore a coordinated approach to funding in Pontiac, Michigan.

Through collaboration, we engaged with community stakeholders to identify the most impactful investment opportunities and determine where a joint funding strategy could drive the greatest positive change.

Purpose

The collaborative engages in a community-driven process to identify and support city-wide goals in Pontiac. We will support fair and just efforts that are evidence based and driven by the community. 

Vision

Through collaboration with community stakeholders, Pontiac’s neighborhoods will flourish as vibrant, welcoming spaces where all residents feel connected, safe, and empowered to achieve economic stability. By fostering a resilient community, we ensure that opportunity and prosperity are within reach for everyone. 

Thriving Neighborhoods

• Goal: Investing in sustainable community development efforts, supporting thriving neighborhoods in Pontiac. 
• Objective: Building upon the culturally rich, vibrant, and resilient neighborhoods in Pontiac, by investing in community-driven initiatives that enhance residents’ quality of life and belonging. 
• Key Strategies:
  1. Strengthening Community Engagement
  2. Enhancing Public Spaces and Infrastructure
  3. Promoting Economic Vitality
  4. Improving Community Well-being

Economic Stability for Youth and Families

• Goal: Building economic stability for Pontiac youth and families. 
• Objective: To enhance the foundations for economic stability and growth for Pontiac families, enabling all residents to thrive and contribute to the community’s success. 
• Key Strategies:
  • Supporting Economic Empowerment
  • Promoting Entrepreneurship and Small Business Growth
  • Improving Access to Essential Services

Values

Community

• Members of the Collaborative value the full participation of communities, drawing from the perspectives and experiences of a broad cross-section of Pontiac community members. 

Respect

• Members of the Collaborative seek to respect and uplift individuals, communities, and organizations in Pontiac who are working, or have worked in the past to improve the quality of life for the community and change regional perceptions about the city.  

Evidence-Based

• Members of the Collaborative believe that philanthropic efforts should support and enhance work that serves Pontiac in ways that are measurable and sustainable. The Collaborative will rely on data to ensure our decision making is evidence-based and results-driven. 

Collaboration

• Members of the Collaborative value working together to leverage shared resources, achieve common objectives and amplify impact. The Collaborative will seek to exchange knowledge, take collective action, and learn from each other. 

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