The Conversation: The Future of Community Philanthropy | Alison Metiva, Grand Traverse Regional Community Foundation

In this episode, Christal sits down with Alison Metiva, the incoming President and CEO of the Grand Traverse Regional Community Foundation, an organization that has quietly but powerfully shaped northern Michigan for more than 30 years.

With nearly two decades inside the Foundation, Alison reflects on her journey from grantmaking to operations to the top leadership role, and what that path has taught her about partnership, collaboration, and the evolving needs of our region. Together, she and Christal unpack the rapidly changing funding landscape—from federal and state cuts to shrinking support for housing, childcare, infrastructure, and environmental programs—and what those shifts mean for local nonprofits that rely on those dollars.

Alison shares how the Foundation is adapting its approach to both fundraising and grantmaking, stepping further into its role as a community convener and connector. From distributing over $330,000 in recent Community Funds grants to navigating emerging priorities such as housing, workforce challenges, and mental health, she outlines a vision for a more resilient and responsive future.

It's a thoughtful conversation about leadership, trust, and what it takes to keep northern Michigan strong, especially in a moment when the safety net is being stretched thinner than ever.