Bay Veterans Foundation Receives $50,000 Challenge Grant

Bay Veterans Foundation, a not-for-profit 501©3 organization in Bay City, Michigan, has received a $50,000 challenge grant from Beth and Tim Boutell of Bay City for continuing construction of the Bay Area Veterans Workshop and Learning Center, 1009 North Madison in Bay City. The Boutell family has supported Bay Veterans Foundation (BVF) projects since its inception in 2015.

“Our veterans have provided so much in protecting our freedoms that so many of us take for granted,” said Tim Boutell. “The Workshop will offer a safe, welcoming environment to learn and teach woodworking and other skills for those newly transitioning from military service, as well as veterans who served years ago,” he continued.

The challenge grant will match dollar for dollar up to $50,000 for any donation through January 31, 2022. Contribution may be made to Bay Veterans Foundation, and mailed to Post Office Box 1513, Bay City, Michigan 48706. Donations are tax deductible in accordance with current tax laws.

The Workshop, currently in the final stages of construction, will offer a variety of learning opportunities in woodworking with instruction on a variety of power and battery-operated tools and woodworking processes. The Workshop will also s serve as a “pre-school” for certain STEM activities through introduction of Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machines and laser engravers. In addition, youth groups will be offered instruction on basic hand tools.

“We are very grateful to Beth and Tim Boutell for this challenge grant,” said Keith Markstom, co-director of Bay Veterans Foundation. “By doubling its impact, we can complete the project as soon as possible and begin programming for veterans.”

The Bay Area Veterans Workshop and Learning Center is a unique project to support those who have experienced isolation, depression, or who are suffering from PTSD. The goal is to provide productive therapy that will help rebuild camaraderie and connection within the community.

To donate, or for further information, contact the Foundation at 989 572-6896, bayveterans.org, or @Facebook.