Gen Forward Network is a philanthropic giving circle that allows members to pool funds to make a positive impact in Genesee County through grants to local nonprofits. 

Formed in 2013, Gen Forward Network was created by a group of community leaders and the Community Foundation of Greater Flint to encourage philanthropy among mid-career career professionals. 

Since its inception, Gen Forward Network has had over 165 members and has provided over $105K in grants to local community groups and initiatives. 

Who We Are
We are a network of community emerging philanthropists working for the greater good of Genesee County.

What We Do
Gen Forward Network members contribute to a common grantmaking pool to support annual grants in a focus area of their choosing.

Guiding Principles

  • To increase the impact of our charitable dollars by learning and working together
  • To be involved in addressing the needs of our community
  • To continue the community’s legacy of generosity by fostering generations of philanthropists

Membership Criteria

  • Share a commitment to working together for the benefit of Genesee County
  • Reside anywhere, join at any time
  • One time investment of $300 annually or $25/mo. to the membership fund

Membership Benefits

  • Network with community leaders and professionals through a series of events and leadership series, webinars, workshops, and masterclasses
  • Approve grants to community organizations from the membership funds of Gen Forward Network
  • Participate with members in a day of service with Gen Forward Network
  • Connect in the community for site tours of past grantees of Gen Forward Network

To join and for more information, contact Jashell Mitchell-Cross at jmitchellcross@cfgf.org. 

Advisory Committee Members:

  • Marc Alexander
  • Charese Bransford
  • Brandee Cooke-Brown
  • Erin Franzen
  • Rafael Turner
  • Jashell Mitchell-Cross – CFGF Staff
  • Lottie Ferguson – CFGF Staff 

Upcoming Gen Forward Network Advisory Committee Meetings

May 15th, 2025

September 18th, 2025

November 13th, 2025

December 18th, 2025

Past Gen Forward Network Grantees

  • Autism Support & Resource Center
  • Carriage Town Ministries 
  • Blueline Donuts
  • Communities First, Inc. 
  • Red Ink Flint
  • Factory Two
  • Sylvester Broome Empowerment Village
  • St. Luke New Life Center 
  • YWCA of Greater Flint