A $50,000 grant from the Charles Stewart Mott Foundation to the Crim Foundation actually honors two milestones this year.
The grant is part of the Mott Foundation’s centennial celebration, and its intention to grant up to $2 billion to support various charitable efforts through 2035.
The $50,000 in funding for the Crim’s endowment is in celebration of the upcoming 50th anniversary of the Crim Festival of Races in 2027.
“The upcoming 50th anniversary of the Festival of Races is a great opportunity for our foundation to acknowledge not only the history and tradition of the races, but the deep ties they have to the community,” said Brandon Morgan, director of external relations for the Crim, in a news release. “Additionally, it is an opportunity for us to showcase the impact of our foundation’s work, which impacts the physical, social, and mental well-being of more than 20,000 residents annually. We are extremely grateful to the Mott Foundation for their continued commitment and support of our mission.”
The Crim Endowment is a permanent fund used to guarantee permanent support for the Crim Fitness Foundation and its programs. The goal is to raise $5 million for the endowment by the organization’s 50th anniversary in 2027. The endowed fund allows the Crim to generate its own income in addition to funding secured through grants and other donations. The endowed funds are invested and allow for steady growth over time that will help fund operating and organizational costs, freeing up other dollars to support programming.
The Crim Fitness Foundation’s origins began in August of 1977, when then-Speaker of the Michigan House of Representatives Bobby Cri and his assistant Lois Craig hosted the first Crim 10-mile road race to raise funds for Special Olympics. Over time, that single race has evolved into a year series of races that attract thousands of runners, a popular training program, and a foundation focused on improving health and wellness countywide through a wide range of programs.
“The Crim is so much more than a race. It’s a year-round force for health, connection and community well-being in Flint,” said Ridgway White, president and CEO of the Mott Foundation, in a news release. “As the Mott Foundation marks 100 years of working alongside this community, supporting the Crim’s endowment is a natural fit — it’s a chance to stand behind an organization that shows up for Flint every single day, and we’re proud to be part of its future.”
This year’s Crim Festival of Races are August 21 and 22 downtown Flint.
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