From its beginning, Community Memorial Foundation has operated proactively in its relationship with organizations serving its target areas. It became apparent early on that it was difficult to make a measurable difference in the target communities solely through non-specific funding via its General Grants program. In response, CMF began its strategic approach to grant making by launching the first of its proactive initiatives, the Youth Initiative, in 1997. In 1998, the Foundation began discussing how to work with congregations as a means to link older adults with needed services; CMF convened religious leaders to explore their interest in working collaboratively to serve older adults. Building upon its years of providing technical assistance to area organizations, the Foundation launched its Building Organizational Effectiveness Initiative in 2001. The following year, 2002, the Early Childhood Initiative was launched. All four efforts are based on community input coupled with best practices research; all strive to create a measurable impact on the health and well-being of target communities.

Building Organizational Effectiveness
The Foundation focuses on enhancing the organizational health and stability of its funded partners. Through its Building Organizational Effectiveness Initiative, CMF provides opportunities for non-profits to access funds for programs designed to improve the effective delivery of health and human services. Click here to learn more...

Early Childhood
The Foundation seeks to make a strategic and measurable difference in the lives of young children and their families. The Early Childhood Initiative is a five year funding program to help communities enhance, develop and sustain services for families with children ages five and under in nine target communities. The overarching goal is to promote the health and development of our youngest residents. Click here to learn more...

Older Adults
CMF works to create elder-friendly communities in its target areas. Through the Older Adult Initiative, the Foundation works with area congregations to link older adults with needed services, provides tools for caregivers, and uses a civic engagement approach called Aging Well to create elder-friendly communities. Click here to learn more...

Youth
The Foundation has a special interest in helping young people grow up healthy and strong. The Youth Initiative is an eight-year effort aimed at improving positive youth development and enhancing the physical, mental, social and environmental well-being of youth in the greater Lyons Township area. Click here to learn more...