Position Title: Herrick Foundation Grants & Programs Fellow

Category: Regular, Full-time, Salary, Exempt

Reports to: President & CEO

Download Application: Click Here

Position Summary

The Lenawee Community Foundation (LCF) is seeking a motivated, detail-oriented, and community-minded professional to join our team as a Grants & Programs Fellow. This full-time, two-year fellowship (January 5, 2026 – December 31, 2027) is designed for an emerging or transitioning professional interested in building a career in philanthropy and nonprofit leadership, especially in rural communities.

The Fellow will be fully embedded in the day-to-day work of the Foundation, gaining hands-on experience in community grantmaking, scholarships, and three of LCF’s most impactful programs: the Lenawee Imagination Library, Hunters Helping Lenawee, and Lenawee Cares. This is an ideal opportunity for someone who wants to make a difference, build practical skills, and contribute to improving health, happiness, and hope across Lenawee County.

About the Fellowship

Funded through the Rural Community Foundation Fellowship initiative, this full-time position provides immersive, hands-on training and mentorship in philanthropy and community development. The Fellow will work closely with the LCF team in Adrian, Michigan, serving all of Lenawee County.

In addition to their work with the Foundation, the Fellow will participate in the statewide Rural Fellows Learning Community—offering professional development, peer learning, and exposure to the broader philanthropic sector.

About the Lenawee Community Foundation

The Lenawee Community Foundation “lifts up Lenawee” by improving the health, happiness, and hope of all who call our community home. With a growing portfolio of funds and community partnerships, LCF connects people who care with causes that matter—providing grants, scholarships, and leadership to strengthen Lenawee County now and for generations to come.

With $40 million in total assets and $5 million in annual grantmaking, we connect need with generosity on a regular basis. Our work supports nonprofits, communities, and families through investments in five key areas: health, civic, culture, education, and human services. LCF serves as a trusted resource and partner, helping ensure that opportunities and support reach every corner of our County.

Our Mission

We connect people who care with causes that matter bringing HEALTH, HAPPINESS, and HOPE to our community, now and forever.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Grantmaking and Scholarships

• Assist with the full cycle of community grantmaking, including application intake, review, tracking, and reporting.
• Support the scholarship program, helping coordinate applications, eligibility review, and award notifications.
• Conduct research, collect data, and prepare materials for grant and scholarship committees.
• Help maintain accurate grant and scholarship records in the Foundation’s database.

Programs and Community Initiatives

• Provide program coordination and support for three of LCF’s signature initiatives:
• Lenawee Imagination Library: Support outreach, enrollment, and evaluation for this early literacy program.
• Hunters Helping Lenawee: Assist in connecting local hunters, processors, food pantries, and volunteers to reduce hunger.
• Lenawee Cares: Contribute to campaign coordination, grant review, and community engagement.
• Participate in community events, partner meetings, and volunteer initiatives.
• Gather data and feedback to assess program outcomes and share impact stories.

Research and Evaluation

• Compile data and reports that highlight community needs and the Foundation’s impact.
• Contribute to evaluation efforts and continuous improvement of grants and programs.
• Help identify new opportunities for collaboration and rural capacity-building.

Organizational Support

• Collaborate with the LCF team on projects that strengthen the Foundation’s operations, communications, and outreach.
• Represent LCF in a positive, professional manner in the community and with partners.
• Support special events, donor stewardship, and other Foundation activities as needed.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication abilities.
• Proficiency with spreadsheets and comfort with data management systems.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines in a dynamic environment.
• Collaborative team player with a willingness to help and contribute wherever needed.
• Positive attitude, strong work ethic, and commitment to professional growth.
• Experience in nonprofit, philanthropic, or financial settings preferred.
• Appreciation for rural communities and a heart for making a difference in Lenawee County.

Education and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in business, nonprofit management, public service leadership, or public administration required.
• Master’s degree preferred.
• Relevant experience in grants management, program coordination, community development, or related areas is a plus.

Compensation and Benefits

• Salary range: $55,000 – $62,000 annually, commensurate with experience.
• Full benefits package, including health insurance, retirement contribution, generous paid time off, and paid holidays.
• Travel reimbursement for work-related activities and professional development.

Work Environment and Requirements

• Based at the Lenawee Community Foundation office in Adrian, Michigan.
• Standard office environment with occasional local travel for meetings or community events.
• Participation in periodic evening or weekend activities as needed.
• Regular use of computer, telephone, and standard office equipment.

How to Apply

To apply, email cover letter, resume, and application to careers@lenaweecf.com. Priority will be given to applications received by November 14, 2025. No phone calls please.

About the Fellowship

The Rural Philanthropy Fellows Cohort is comprised of 15 fellows: 12 Ralph C. Wilson, Jrs. Rural Philanthropy Fellows and 3 Herrick Foundation Philanthropy Fellows. Each two-year Fellowship offers a professional a unique opportunity to make meaningful contributions to either Michigan or New York philanthropy and the larger philanthropic community.

How the Fellow Benefits as a Member of the Cohort

Beyond direct job experience, the Fellow will also benefit from being part of a larger cohort of Rural Philanthropy Fellows. The cohort will receive ongoing support from a group of philanthropic practice experts via the New York Funder Alliance (NYFA) for:

• Development of skills and knowledge, supported by the Fellowship Cohort learning opportunities and an individualized professional development budget.
• Tailored 1:1 networking support to explore potential career paths post-fellowship across the philanthropic sector and adjacent fields.
• The Fellow will also benefit from attendance at local and national stakeholder meetings and conferences.

About the Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Foundation

The Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Foundation is a grantmaking organization dedicated primarily to sustained investment in the quality of life of the people of Southeast Michigan and Western New York. Based in Detroit, the Foundation began with a grantmaking capacity of $1.2 billion over a 20-year period, expiring January 8, 2035. For more information, visit www.rcwjrf.org.

About the Herrick Foundation

Founded in 1949, the Herrick Foundation seeks to empower and support organizations that strengthen communities and help people flourish. Its focus includes underserved and overlooked communities in Southeast Michigan and other areas where engaged family and Board members live. For more information, visit www.herrickfdn.org.