As we approach the end of 2016 and the beginning of 2017, we at Friends In Deed are optimistic about our organization’s future. Not only are we evolving are programs to better meet the needs of the community, we are growing and evolving as an organization.

AAACF’s Capacity Building Grant

The Ann Arbor Area Community Foundation (AAACF) is instrumental in these efforts. A few months ago,we received $5,000 in grant monies to be used for Capacity Building. In other words, the Ann Arbor Area Community Foundation chose to invest in Friends In Deed, so that we might improve our effectiveness going into the future.

Conducting an Audit

Through the support of the AAACF, we have selected an accounting firm to conduct an audit of our finances in February. This audit will allow us to find new funding sources as we will be better able to demonstrate the health and stability of our organization to third parties.

Creating a Succession Plan

The grant monies from AAACF will also allow us to create a succession plan. In fact, we’ve already met with Regina Funkhouser, the executive director of the Nonprofit Network, toward developing it. The implementation of the plan is a priority in 2017 and will allow Friends In Deed to continue to run effectively and efficiently should a change in leadership occur — an important need for a small nonprofit.

Thank you Ann Arbor Area Community Foundation!