Sometimes, it only takes one conversation to spark something extraordinary.
Earlier this spring, President and CEO Dan Kildee joined a small gathering of philanthropic leaders in New York City. In that room, far from Flint but deeply connected to its future, Dan shared the story of a strong community, and a foundation built on partnership, persistence, and possibility.
“We talked about what’s working in Flint,” Dan said. “About how our people are shaping their future. I spoke about our bold steps to ensure every child can thrive and how local generosity fuels our shared progress.”
Unbeknownst to the Community Foundation of Greater Flint team, one individual in the room had been quietly listening and deeply moved.
Weeks later, a message arrived. The donor, who wishes to remain anonymous, had been inspired by Dan’s words and wanted to invest in that future. Their generous gift of $500,000 was made with care and intentionality, guided by trust in our leadership and confidence in our community.
The family has done extensive work in clean water and felt a strong connection to Flint’s story of recovery. This gift was their way of joining that journey of standing in solidarity with a city that continues to rise.
The donor designated the contribution across three key areas:
- $300,000 to the Flint Kids Fund, to advance long-term health and development for Flint’s children;
- $100,000 in operational support, recognizing that strong infrastructure powers profound community impact;
- $100,000 for discretionary grantmaking, allowing the Community Foundation to respond with agility to community needs.
For Lottie Ferguson, Vice President of Development and Donor Services, the donor’s gift is a powerful example of belief in Flint and its people.
“This gift was born from listening. It was not transactional, it was transformational,” Lottie said. “It reflects a deep trust in our work and our community’s strength.”
The story of this gift reminds us that generosity is often quiet, but its impact resounds. It also illustrates the Community Foundation’s unique role: bridging people, purpose, and place to move possibility into progress.
Dan reflected, “You never know what seeds are being planted when you speak from the heart. This gift is a testament to what happens when someone sees the good growing in Flint and decides to be part of it.”
