Annual Report 2004 - Charles Stewart Mott Foundation

FLINT AREA: OVERVIEW
for general operations, including
implementation of long-term strategic
and master plans. In addition, Mott
made a 21-month, $1.2-million grant
to the Flint Cultural Center
Foundation for various physical
improvements to campus buildings
and grounds.
The annual Parade of Festivals,
coordinated by the Greater Flint Arts
Council (GFAC), also encourages area
residents to meet, interact and learn
from one another. The summertime
events — which include weekly
outdoor concerts and several multiday
festivals — increase the number and
diversity of people coming to
downtown Flint, and promote
economic growth and investment in
the community.
A one-year, $165,000 grant to
GFAC supported the implementation
of a marketing and promotional
campaign for the 2004 Parade of
Festivals and the development of
various events.
Crossing gaps in age and
education to nurture language arts
among local children was the purpose
of an 18-month, $216,608 grant to Flint
Community Schools for its
Intergenerational Tutor Training and
Employment Program. The program
prepares and employs senior citizens as
classroom-based mentors for young
students in the areas of language and
reading.
Helping youth throughout Genesee
County was the focus of two grants totaling
more than $3.8 million to the United Way
of Genesee County for the Bridges to the
Future Program.
Bridges — a countywide before- and
after-school program supported by more
than 60 community partners — faced a
funding shortfall in 2004, caused largely
by state budget cutbacks. Mott’s support
helped ensure Bridges’ future through the
2004-2005 school year, keeping the doors
of growth, knowledge and opportunity
continued on page 46
Bridges to the Future
supports afterschool
activities in all 21
Genesee County school
districts.
2004 ANNUAL REPORT
43