Priorities

The Irving S. Gilmore Foundation endeavors to develop and to enrich the Greater Kalamazoo community and its residents by supporting the work of nonprofit organizations.  The Foundation’s funding priorities are:

Arts, Culture & Humanities

The Foundation promotes the enjoyment, understanding, appreciation and/or instrumental use of visual arts, performing arts, media arts, communications, humanities, and history.

Human Services

The Foundation supports youth development; life skills; food and nutrition; public safety; parks and recreation; and other social/human services that benefit individuals, families and neighborhoods. However, the Foundation does not generally support athletics and only nominally supports housing and shelter.

Education

The Foundation supports educational programs and activities that enhance the capacity for life-long learning. However, the Foundation does not generally support core operations and programming of K-12 educational institutions.

Community Development

The Foundation promotes quality of life through appropriate investments that strengthen, unify and build community spirit and enhance capacity for innovation and growth.

Health & Well-Being

The Foundation promotes health and wellness programs and activities that enhance the physical, mental and emotional needs of individuals.