Joyce in Michigan
The Joyce Foundation is a private, nonpartisan foundation based in Chicago that invests in evidence-based public policies and strategies to advance racial equity and economic mobility for the next generation in the Great Lakes region. We support policy research, development, and advocacy in six areas: Culture, Democracy, Education & Economic Mobility, Environment, Gun Violence Prevention & Justice Reform, and Journalism.
Investing in a healthy Michigan
Click the arrow above to hear Ellen Alberding, Joyce's president and board member, discuss our work in Michigan and across the Great Lakes.
The audio used in this video is from a Crain's Conversations podcast by Jim Kirk, Crain's Detroit Business publisher and executive editor.
Recent Initiatives
The Joyce Foundation is a member of the Council of Michigan Foundations. In 2022 the Joyce Foundation board approved nearly 60 grants totaling more than $5 million to support policy work in Michigan. A few highlights from our recent and planned initiatives:
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Democracy:
To support nonpartisan voter engagement and election protection, evidence-based election administration, policy research and advocacy to support safe and trusted elections. Also, supported implementation and evaluation of Michigan’s inaugural Independent Citizens Redistricting Commission process. -
Education & Economic Mobility:
To close income and race disparities in college and career success by ensuring young people of color and those from underserved communities have access to high-quality, diverse K-12 teachers and affordable college credentials with economic value. -
Environment:
To advance clean energy solutions, support the health of the Great Lakes, and ensure access to safe, equitable and affordable drinking water. -
Gun Violence Prevention and Justice Reform:
To reduce gun violence through policy and practice reform and by building the research base; strengthening evidence-based community violence intervention strategies; and to stem the flow of individuals into the criminal justice system by supporting public investment in alternatives and reimagining public safety. -
Journalism:
To support thoughtful and analytical reporting on important state policy issues, including coverage of the state legislature, fair elections, and the environment. Also, to help strengthen the nonprofit news network across the state.