Bringing Joy Home: Donation Match Campaign Reaches Goal

The spirit of generosity and unity in Midland County was on full display during Members First Credit Union’s (M1) 'Bringing Joy Home – Your Donation Matched' campaign, which raised an impressive $47,191 for the Affordable Housing Alliance of Midland County (AHA). Members First matched up to $20,000 in donations, inspiring local residents, businesses, and organizations to come together and address the critical need for affordable housing in the community.

With $27,191 contributed by community members and local businesses and matched dollar-for-dollar up to $20,000 by Members First Credit Union (M1), the campaign highlights the power of collaboration in making a real difference.

Local businesses played a crucial role in rallying support. Three Bridges Distillery and Taproom hosted "Hops for Housing," donating $1 per pour, with contributions matched by Proper Taco, the Great Lakes Loons, The Mitt Sports Radio 100.9, and Poznak Dyer Kanar Schefsky Thompson PLC. Frick’s Sports Bar also stepped up, donating 15% of their sales on August 15th to the Affordable Housing Alliance. The Dow Golf Championship added to the momentum with a generous donation as part of the #TeamUp for the Great Lakes Bay Region. Media coverage and radio interviews amplified the community’s enthusiasm and generosity, spreading the word and inspiring even more involvement.

With 1 in 4 renters in Midland County facing severe financial strain, often spending more than half of their income on rent,1 the funds raised will directly support AHA’s mission to provide safe, affordable housing to low-income families, including essential workers like teachers, nurses, and daycare providers. Established in 1995, AHA relies on donations and grants to sustain its mission of building inclusive, thriving communities.

Mara Stewart, Executive Director at AHA, expressed her gratitude: “We are deeply thankful for the outpouring of support from our community. Thanks to the generosity of individuals, businesses, and Members First Credit Union, we can continue providing affordable housing options to those who need it most.”

Members First Credit Union’s involvement in the campaign as a Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) reflects its ongoing commitment to supporting the basic needs of the community. “Housing is a cornerstone of thriving communities,” said Kristen Williamson, Community Relations Leader at M1. “This campaign has shown what’s possible when we come together, and we’re excited to see the lasting impact it will have.”

The “Bringing Joy Home” campaign’s success is a testament to the dedication and heart of the Midland and surrounding communities, proving that by working together, we can create vibrant communities.

1S ource: Enterprise Community Partners tabulation of 2012 One-Year American Community Survey Public Use Microdata Sample (census.gov/acs/www/data_documentation/public_use_microdata_sample).