By TNCPNEWS
LANSING, MI — The Michigan Nonprofit Association (MNA) has recently distributed a total of $30 million in relief funds to 1,373 nonprofit organizations in Michigan. These funds are part of the MI Nonprofit Relief Fund, established to aid small charitable nonprofits struggling due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The fund, totaling $35 million, was announced in February 2023 and is targeted at nonprofits with annual revenues below $1 million, which have faced significant challenges since March 3, 2021, due to the pandemic.
MNA, in partnership with the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO), has spearheaded this initiative as part of the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds allocated to Michigan. Governor Whitmer has emphasized the critical role of these nonprofits in supporting Michigan communities, particularly those disproportionately affected by the pandemic.
Of the 2,065 applications received in spring 2023, a panel of Michigan nonprofit leaders selected 1,373 recipients by summer, with the possibility of more awards later in the year. The grants, ranging from $5,000 to $25,000, are aimed at nonprofits severely impacted by COVID-19, especially in underserved BIPOC communities. A significant portion of the applicants represents diverse groups, including organizations led by BIPOC individuals and those serving rural areas.
Geronimo Lerma III, Founder of Footprints of Michigan, was excited when he learned that the nonprofit organization was a recipient of the grant. They distribute new and gently used footwear to those in need throughout Michigan.
Lerma highlighted the organization’s strategic planning and how much it has grown statewide. Even though they are open year-round, the demand for warm footwear has outpaced their ability to cover the entire state.
“Our social events program, especially focused on veterans in Iron Mountain and Marquette, has grown exponentially. It’s like wildfire – the demand has skyrocketed. We’ve extended our reach to places like Sioux Sainte Marie, meeting urgent needs for winter boots and more. This surge in requests is a testament to the power of word-of-mouth and the dire need in these communities,” Lerma shared, illustrating the rapid growth of their initiatives. “The funds will help us tremendously because, as we’re growing bigger, the bills add up. And boy, do they add up! At the same time, this grant gives us the financial stability to have on demand services. Like, if we have a senior or somebody in need that we need to purchase shoes for. The calls are especially increasing from up north. It’s cheaper for us to order through a store or Amazon.”
Navigating Financial Challenges
Addressing the organization’s financial hurdles, Lerma stated, “Managing a nonprofit like Footprints of Michigan comes with substantial financial responsibilities. With the addition of our warehouse, expenses such as heating and electricity have escalated. This grant is crucial for us. It gives us the much-needed stability to focus on our mission rather than being preoccupied with financial constraints. It’s a game-changer in how we operate and serve the community.”
In conclusion, Lerma reflected on the spirit of collaboration within the nonprofit sector. He notes that while everyone is doing commendable work, there’s often a reluctance to share knowledge and resources. Lerma emphasizes that he learned the ropes of running a nonprofit through hands-on experience, without a formal education in the field.
He stands out by his willingness to share insights and guide others aspiring to start their nonprofits. Lerma believes in mutual support, highlighting that there are ample resources, like grants, available and that helping others doesn’t detract from one’s mission. This position, he argues, is essential for the collective goal of community service and making a positive impact. Without organizations like the Michigan Nonprofit Association to bring assistance to our organizations, many would no longer exist.
The Michigan Nonprofit Relief Fund is managed jointly by the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO) and the Michigan Nonprofit Association (MNA). This publication is affiliated with the Diverse News Association. For information about the grant, including details about all grantees, visit www.mnaonline.org/policy/nonprofit-relief-fund.
