Impact

FFE's impact starts and ends with the people of Kalamazoo. It supports outreach and engagement like neighborhood planning and community visioning, and then invests in projects and programs to make that vision a reality. FFE also provides funding to stabilize the City of Kalamazoo's budget so residents can rely on the essential city services it provides, and funds a property tax reduction that benefits every property taxpayer in the city. Because of FFE, the people of Kalamazoo are getting more and paying less.

People are at the center of everything FFE does. Below are some of the projects, programs, and people that FFE is proud to support as we continue our mission to empower Kalamazoo residents to achieve the lives they want for themselves and their families.

Projects & Programs

Kalamazoo Attainable Homes Partnership

The KAHP provides high-quality homes built by HBA members that are both attainable in cost and provide homeowners with low maintenance costs.

MyCITY Youth Employment

MyCITY is a seasonal youth employment program that serves as the gateway to paid internship and work experience.

All Things Possible

ATP is an exploration and discovery program that helps youth transition to high school. Students who complete ATP can earn free driver's training after completing their freshman year.

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Stories

City Support Helps Kalamazoo Dry Goods Become a Creative Hub

With City support, Rebecca Macleery transformed a vacant building into Kalamazoo Dry Goods, a thriving arts hub. Grants and guidance helped her navigate challenges, secure funding, and build a space for local artists. Her journey shows how city investment helps fuel small business success and creative community growth.

Five Years of Empowering Entrepreneurs

In five years, the Foundation for Excellence has invested $11 million to start or grow more than 500 businesses in Kalamazoo.

Designing for Change

When Jasmine Childress started her studio Eight Thirty Seven in 2020, she wanted her passion for art and design to also make a difference in her community.

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