#United States #Consumers Energy #Kalamazoo #Community Homeworks

Community Homeworks Recognized for Its Vital Role in Kalamazoo

On July 15, 2025, the Consumers Energy Foundation announced a notable grant of $150,000 awarded to Community Homeworks, a nonprofit organization based in Kalamazoo, Michigan. Celebrated as one of the winners of the 2025 People Awards, this funding is designed to empower local residents while ensuring their homes remain safe, stable, and sustainable.

Brandon Hofmeister, the president of the Consumers Energy Foundation, emphasized the importance of Community Homeworks’ mission, noting, "The dedication of Community Homeworks to provide access to safe and sustainable living conditions is crucial in preventing displacement and preserving homeownerships." This alignment highlights the foundation's commitment to community upliftment and sustainable living, as they recognize the direct impact such initiatives have on families.

Community Homeworks plans to utilize this grant to implement critical home repair services, host educational workshops, and operate a tool library—all geared toward supporting their overall mission of preventing displacement and maintaining homeownership. The organization is working diligently to assist families in dire need of home repairs, particularly focusing on at-risk households with expectant mothers and young children, who are most vulnerable to health and safety issues.

Chris Praedel, the Executive Director of Community Homeworks, expressed his gratitude for the support, stating, "Through the partnership support from the Consumers Energy Foundation, we will be able to directly strengthen our Safe Start Home Repair Program." The initiative is designed specifically to lower barriers to essential home repairs for families facing challenges. Thanks to this grant, Community Homeworks can now offer critical repairs that will enhance the livability of homes and ensure that families often left without options can receive necessary aid.

The 2025 People Awards represent just one element of the Consumers Energy Foundation’s broader commitment to grant making this year, with planned allocations totaling $1.5 million across various initiatives. Earlier this year, the foundation awarded the Planet Awards, and upcoming in the fall is the presentation of the Prosperity Awards to further support nonprofit efforts aimed at boosting economic development.

As the charitable arm of Consumers Energy, the Foundation plays a pivotal role in enhancing Michigan's communities. In the previous year alone, the Consumers Energy Foundation, along with CMS Energy Foundation, contributed an impressive $15 million to support a variety of nonprofits and foster community growth. Their focus encompasses vital elements that matter most: people, the planet, and the prosperity of Michigan residents.

For those interested in learning more about the Consumers Energy Foundation and their various initiatives, further details can be found at consumersenergy.com/foundation. Alongside, they maintain an active presence on social media platforms, providing updates and engagement with the community they serve.

Conclusion

This recent award to Community Homeworks is a testament to the profound impact that supporting local nonprofits can have on community stability and development. As organizations like Community Homeworks emerge as local champions of safety and sustainability, the support from the Consumers Energy Foundation not only offers financial assistance but also uplifts the very fabric of community—ensuring it remains resilient and empowering for all its members.