Aging adults will benefit from ongoing investments aimed at strengthening the future of the Kool Family Community Center and the community it serves.
The Battle Creek Community Foundation (BCCF) is proud to announce the thoughtful ownership transition of the Kool Family Community Center to Comprehensive Senior Care Corporation (CSCC) effective June 4, 2026.
Kool Family Community Center
, originally known as Burnham Brook was founded in 1990 with an extensive community campaign. It began as a senior center and community hub that was originally owned and operated by the Area Agency on Aging.
BCCF became part of the solution to form the Burnham Brook Center Title Holding Company in 2008 when sustainability became difficult for the organization. A new leadership board was created and the ownership and operation of Burnham Brook Center transitioned to the Battle Creek Community Foundation. The intended long-term strategic outcome was to secure operations and to return ownership to another aging-related community organization in the future.
Later in 2015 the name was changed to the Kool Family Community Center, which reflected the important leadership contributions of the Kool family since the building’s beginning. While the tenants, and even the name, have changed over the past 36 years, the primary focus has always been serving aging adults and community.
Today, the announcement of the transition to CSCC completes the strategic plan of action that began in 2008 and builds increased fiscal strength and forward thinking. The growth of the Center over the last two years uniquely aligns this transition during a time of strength with successful programming and community support to transition seamless programming under new leadership.
Maya Williams, Kool Center Administrator shares, “It has been a privilege, over the last 18 years, to steward this community center alongside a dedicated team whose collective efforts have positioned the center perfectly for this next strategic chapter.”
In addition to uninterrupted community and senior programs, gym memberships will remain in place. Better yet, senior-focused activities will continue and grow. For organizations that have signed rental contracts, they will be honored. The only difference is that CSCC will assume the care and management of the facility and maintain the services the community has come to expect and value.
BCCF has also committed to ensuring long-term stability during this transition with a three-year grant to support continued senior and gym programs.
“The Kool Family Community Center has been a cornerstone of connection, wellness, and community in Battle Creek. Our vision is to honor that legacy while continuing to expand opportunities, foster diversity, and provide equitable access for older adults to age with dignity, purpose, and support,” added Qiana Harrison, CEO, CSCC. “We are committed to preserving the Center as a vibrant community asset and ensuring it continues to serve as a place where people come together, build relationships, and connect to the resources they need to thrive.”
Comprehensive Senior Care Corporation is a natural, mission-aligned steward, deeply invested in the Battle Creek community and exists to support the health, independence, and well-being of older adults. They are uniquely positioned to steward the Kool Family Community Center in a way that aligns with its legacy and purpose to meet the needs of aging adults, including expanding its services while continuing the Center’s identity as a vibrant community-focused asset for years to come right in the heart of downtown.
This transition to CSCC aligns squarely with Battle Creek Community Foundation core commitments and their responsibility to be strong stewards of every dollar entrusted to them for the future of Battle Creek. This moment allows BCCF to focus fully on innovative, mission-aligned strategies that advance their broader community impact.
“We are ensuring the work continues under an organization designed to operate and grow this type of service long-term for our community,” Mary Muliett, president and CEO, Battle Creek Community Foundation. “It has been an honor to steward the Center on behalf of the community, serving seniors, families, gym members, and all who rely on the space for wellness, gathering, and connection.”
Change can create exciting new opportunities as well as uncertainty for some, especially when it involves a beloved community space. This change, however, is grounded in stability, partnership, and shared commitment to Battle Creek. The Kool Family Community Center remains a cornerstone and its future is strong.
Founded in 1974, the Battle Creek Community Foundation (BCCF) partners with donors, nonprofits, and community leaders to advance equity, expand opportunity, and strengthen well-being across Battle Creek, and the surrounding region in Michigan. Through grantmaking, scholarships, leadership, and convening, BCCF invests in strategic priorities guided by integrity, stewardship, partnership, and continual listening and learning. Through these values, BCCF lifts up community-led efforts and ideas that
strengthen opportunity for the future. Learn more at https://bccfoundation.org
Please reach out to Mary Muliett, president and CEO, Battle Creek Community Foundation, with any questions or concerns at (269) 962-2181.