Since 1945, the Leelanau Township Community Foundation has given over $5 million dollars in grants to the Northport and Omena community in ways that significantly change lives.

The Leelanau Township Community Foundation (LTCF) is an accredited 501(c)3 non-profit organization that administers a number of funds for local charitable purposes.

Our Mission

The mission of the Leelanau Township Community Foundation shall be:

  • To help meet the needs of the residents of Leelanau Township;

  • To build diverse permanent endowment funds from a wide range of donors to meet the ever-changing needs of the Community;

  • To seek local volunteers to help in community ventures via their involvement in proactively determining local needs then aiding in the development of programs of fulfillment;

  • To develop community understanding of the role of charitable giving within a local environment that can fulfill local community needs; and

  • To involve the youth by teaching them their role in making a positive difference in the community and empowering them in the process of grant making and leadership.

Our vision/purpose

The vision and purpose of the Leelanau Township Community Foundation is to be the lead organization for people of all means to make a lasting contribution to Leelanau Township communities; to support local community organizations and projects that promote:

  • Youth education and development

  • Health and wellness care

  • Economic vitality

  • Environmental stewardship

  • Quality recreation

  • Arts

  • Cultural awareness

  • Community fun

Our History

The Leelanau Township Community Foundation is the third oldest community foundation in Michigan. Established in 1945, it started with a gift of $35,000 (close to half a million in today's dollars) from Francis H. Haserot in memory of his long-time friend and business associate, Gilman Marsten Dame.

Now in our 77th year, we see many examples of the benefit of Mr. Haserot's foresight in establishing an endowment fund. Subsequent donations from many individuals have helped grow that initial investment and today the Foundation has over $6 million in assets and has given away $5 million. Our annual grants have benefited many local nonprofit organizations, schools, and municipalities, and have helped many students pay for their education.

Each year the Foundation's General Endowment Fund provides grants that make a significant difference in the health and well-being of people who live in Leelanau Township. We are dedicated to continuing this commitment.

To read more about our history, click the link below:

Leelanau Township Community Foundation: Untimely Death Leads to a Lasting Legacy (PDF)


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The National Standards Seal confirms that we have met the most rigorous standards in philanthropy from the Council on Foundations. It affirms our commitment to financial security, transparency, and accountability. It says our grantmaking includes an open, competitive process designed to address the changing needs of our community. The National Standards Seal also confirms our history of honoring donors’ wishes.