In a community like Oak Pointe, where families put down roots and grow together, some stories begin quietly and evolve into something far greater than anyone could have imagined.

For Oak Pointe neighbor Curt Griffin, that story starts at home.

More than 25 years ago, Curt and his family were searching for a place that felt different. Living in Northville at the time, they were drawn to the charm, the water, and the sense of connection they found in Brighton.

“We looked all around, but there was something about Oak Pointe,” Curt shared. “It felt like a smaller, close-knit community. Almost like cottage living.”

In 1999, they built their home and settled in.

What he couldn’t have known then is that this very community would become the starting point for something far greater, a story impacting families across the country.

That story begins with his daughter, Grace, founder of The GRACE Giving Foundation.

Grace Griffin was just a sophomore in high school when she founded The GRACE Giving Foundation, inspired by something she had witnessed for years.

“I grew up watching my dad, who is a cancer survivor, volunteer at our local cancer center,” Grace shared. “It inspired me to want to do my part.”

Through Curt’s time volunteering at Trinity Health, Grace saw firsthand the realities families face during treatment. Not just medically, but in the quiet, everyday ways that often go unseen.

That became the mission.

The GRACE Giving Foundation focuses on helping cancer patients with daily living expenses. Things like utility bills, groceries, and basic needs that can quickly become overwhelming during treatment.

“We want to help people with the things no one talks about,” Curt said. “Just making life a little more manageable during a really hard time.”

What sets the foundation apart is how it gives.

Rather than relying on traditional fundraising, Grace created a self-sustaining model built around vending machines placed in businesses and high-traffic locations. From gumball machines to claw machines and beverage stations, each one generates ongoing support for those in need.

Everything, aside from the cost to restock and maintain the machines, goes directly back into helping patients and their families.

“It’s truly the gift that keeps on giving,” Curt shared.

What began with small candy machines in local businesses has grown into a nationwide effort, with machines now placed in airports, corporate offices, and communities across the country, generating roughly $10,000 per month and surpassing $1 million in funds raised.

And it all started with persistence.

“For the first three months, all we got was no,” Grace said. “You just need one person to say yes.”

That first “yes” came from a local Brighton business, and from there, the foundation began to grow.

Today, Grace’s reach extends far beyond the community she grew up in, while still staying deeply connected to the mission that started it all.

After graduating from Michigan State University last year, she moved to Boston, where she now works in investment banking while continuing to grow the foundation.

“If I didn’t get the support I did in Livingston County, I would’ve never expanded the way I have,” Grace said. “I really owe it to my hometown.”

The foundation now supports communities across the country, helping families navigate one of life’s most difficult challenges with a little more ease and dignity.

When asked about the most memorable moment, Curt didn’t hesitate.

The Trinity Health hospital expansion, where a patient room was named in honor of The GRACE Giving Foundation.

A full-circle moment rooted in service, resilience and compassion.

“She’s the real hero in this,” Curt shared. “I just help behind the scenes where I can.”

For a father who once volunteered in those halls, and a daughter who turned that inspiration into action, it’s a legacy that speaks for itself.

For local businesses looking for a meaningful way to give back, The GRACE Giving Foundation offers a simple opportunity to make a real impact. 

Businesses can host a candy or vending machine at no cost, with all proceeds supporting cancer patients and their families.To learn more or get involved, visit gracegivingfoundationinc.org.