ADRIAN, Mich., June 16, 2026 – The Lenawee Community Foundation is pleased to announce that applications will open on July 1, 2026, for the 2026 V.C. and Velma Knight Memorial Fund grants.
The Knight family’s generosity was a source of pride for the late Marilyn Underhill, daughter of V.C. and Velma Knight. Reflecting on her parents’ legacy, she once shared, “My parents came from humble backgrounds, but they did well financially and were able to help hundreds of people in their lifetimes.”
Velma passed away in 1980 and V.C. in 2005, but their legacy continues to change lives across Lenawee County thanks to their foresight and generosity. Since 2008, the V.C. and Velma Knight Memorial Fund has provided nearly $675,000 in grants to local programs, supporting everything from food security and mental health services to homeless prevention and childcare scholarships.
Rooted in the Knight family’s values of service, compassion, and local investment, the fund continues to make a lasting difference for the people and communities of Lenawee County.
V.C. Knight was a pioneer in the air conditioning industry and the founder of Addison Products Company. Velma was a lifelong Bible scholar with a heart for helping others. Today, they are remembered not only for their accomplishments but for their compassion, and for choosing to create a legacy that keeps giving.
Grants are awarded to programs that address basic needs, health, and human services in Lenawee County. To honor the donors’ wishes and create the greatest possible impact, priority will be given to proposals that:
- Provide direct services to individuals and families
- Leverage resources through partnerships or matching funds
- Can be sustained without ongoing Foundation support
- Encourage collaboration and avoid duplication of existing services
- Promote volunteerism and community involvement
All grant applications must be submitted electronically by August 1, 2026.
To apply, visit https://goapply2.akoyago.com/lenaweecf.
For questions or assistance, please contact Madison Roberts at 517.263.4696 or email madison@lenaweecf.com.
The Lenawee Community Foundation is honored to continue the work V.C. and Velma Knight began, and grateful to their daughter Marilyn for preserving and extending their commitment to building a stronger, more compassionate community.
About Lenawee Community Foundation:
The Lenawee Community Foundation is a charitable organization created by and for the community. By collecting donations and investing them for lasting impact, the Foundation funds grants, scholarships, and local initiatives to address community needs, support nonprofits, and enhance the wellbeing of Lenawee County. More than just an organization, the Lenawee Community Foundation is an opportunity for individuals, families, and businesses to leverage the power of collective giving to make sure their community stays strong and supported for years to come.
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For more information, please contact: Kirsten Stiver, 517-263-4696, kirsten@lenaweecf.com.