Iosco County Community Foundation awards $15,000 in community grants

What’s happening: The Iosco County Community Foundation recently awarded $15,423 in grants to area nonprofits for programs and projects that benefit Iosco County through its Community Improvement Grant program, including a major grant to support workforce development and education at the Iosco Regional Educational Service Agency (IRESA).

The IRESA grant: The grant will support the Practical Assessment Exploration System (PAES), which is a hands-on, simulated workplace environment within the classroom, allowing students to gain real-world job experience while developing critical workplace skills such as time management, productivity, and workplace independence. Designed specifically for special education students ages 14–26 in the ISD’s center-based program, the PAES lab has an anticipated lifespan of at least 10 years and is expected to benefit hundreds of students — many of whom are among the most vulnerable members of the community.

About the other grants:

$2,000 to Tawas Wellness Warriors to provide free community programming, including a 5K walk/run, yoga classes, the Family Fit Camp, and annual passes, so individuals facing financial barriers can participate in the organization’s health and wellness programs.

$1,983 awarded to Heritage Coast Sailing & Rowing for their 2026-2027 ROV program which provides a high-quality STEM program where students will design, build, and learn to operate underwater remotely operated vehicles, and to participate in ROV competitions.

$1,440 awarded to Palomino Hope Equine Experience to support facility upgrades. This organization supports equine therapy for mental health in Iosco County. The grant will support upgrades to fencing, pony enclosures, and safety infrastructure to maximize safety.

What they’re saying: “This year marks a meaningful milestone for ICCF as we proudly awarded our first-ever $10,000 grant to a program serving our community,” said ICCF President Kelly Alexander. “This investment reflects our continued commitment to support impactful local initiatives that strengthen Iosco County for generations to come.”