The Environmental Education Fund was established in 2009 by a donor committed to connecting local youth to the natural environment of Emmet County. The area boasts diverse ecosystems, including lakes, forests, sand dunes, freshwater springs, and coastal regions, providing a rich outdoor classroom for students. The fund has since facilitated nature-based learning for nearly 5,000 children and teens in Emmet County, Michigan.

The Environmental Education Fund supports K-12 environmental education initiatives conducted by Emmet County schools and 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations. Grant funding may be used for field trip transportation to local nature preserves, state parks, birding trails, fishing ponds, and family farms. It may also cover the purchase of equipment that enhances learning, such as orienteering tools, art supplies, binoculars, and waders. Additionally, funding can be used for specialized training for educators and nonprofit staff focused on environmental education.

To be eligible, applicants must propose activities that occur during the current school year and emphasize nature-based learning. Requests must not exceed $500. Activities related to outdoor recreation or athletics, like skiing or sailing, are not eligible. Applications must be submitted before the proposed activities; reimbursement for past activities is not permitted.

Applications are accepted on a rolling basis during the school year. Upon approval, grant checks will be mailed within three weeks, with school grants directed to the respective superintendent. To apply, applicants must log in to the Grant Portal and use the access code TRAN01. The Community Foundation encourages early application submission to ensure funding availability.

For questions or more information, applicants can contact the Community Foundation at 231-348-5820 or email grants@phsacf.org. The office is open Monday through Friday, 8:30 am to 5:00 pm, and is located at 1349 US-131 Suite A, Petoskey, MI 49770.