This fall, as part of our mission to spark positive community change and a more equitable and sustainable society, the Foundation announced new, recycling-related grant opportunities for local materials management projects. The grant announcement was an outcome of several months of collaboration with the Shiawassee Recycling Workgroup, a coalition of organizations working to strengthen the local economy, reduce environmental impacts, and improve quality of life for all residents through recycling and resource recovery.

The three newly-awarded grants were awarded to support the following projects:

DJ Root Feasibility Study – $35,000
Submitted by Shiawassee Health and Wellness

This grant will fund a feasibility/market analysis to evaluate the viability of transitioning the DJ Root Recycling Center to a public-private partnership that will ensure the continuation of a paper/cardboard recycling program.  A consultant will also be hired to identify work opportunities for both current and future employees with emotional and physical disabilities. The study will begin immediately and continue for about ten months. 

Shiawassee Recycles: Planning a Countywide Recycling Education and Marketing Initiative – $25,000
Submitted by Shiawassee Regional Chamber of Commerce

This is a planning grant to launch Shiawassee Recycles, a countywide initiative that will create a “go to” site to connect residents, businesses, and municipalities with reliable recycling, composting, and materials management resources. With help from local partners including Greater Lansing Recyclers, Resourceful Recycling, and Lionbear Ventures, the final project’s aim is to increase public knowledge and awareness about recycling realities and benefits. Planning will begin immediately.

Owosso Curbside Recycling Public Input Project – $8,150
Submitted by the City of Owosso

The City of Owosso is gathering input from residents and businesses on the Michigan state mandate to offer curbside recycling via twelve listening and informational sessions facilitated by Dr. Kari Krantz. These sessions will provide an opportunity for residents to learn about what’s required, what the options are, and review what the current costs/models are in Owosso. Feedback will be compiled and shared in a final report to help guide City leadership for next steps and decisions. The sessions will begin in early 2026.

For more information about these, and other Foundation grant opportunities, click on the GRANTS tab at the top of this page or email Rachel Osmer at rachel@cookfamilyfoundation.org.