in community
The Philanthropy Issue GR A N D
RAP I D S
S P EC I AL
COMMUNI TY
CE N TE N N I A L
FOUNDATION
COL L EC TION
SENIOR LEADERSHIP TEAM
NO A H C HU N
Diana R. Sieger President Ashley René Lee Vice President, Strategic Communications Kate Luckert Schmid Vice President, Program Stan Vander Roest Chief Financial Officer
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K AR ILYN W. ZAC
Marilyn W. Zack Vice President, Development
BOARD OF TRUSTEES Kyle D. Caldwell (Chair) Reneé Williams (Vice Chair) Noah Chun Ken Fawcett, M.D. Thomas Kyros Emily Loeks Brandy Lovelady Mitchell, Ed. D. Ana Ramirez-Saenz Richard Roane Kathleen B. Vogelsang Daniel Williams, Ed. D.
Tel: 616.454.1751 Fax: 616.454.6455 Email: Info@GRFoundation.org Website: GRFoundation.org
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Noah Chun Community Foundation trustee WHY IS PHILANTHROPY IMPORTANT? Philanthropy brings people from different walks of life together to support a cause that’s bigger than themselves. In doing so, they create a sense of unity and belonging in community. In my experience, people who are philanthropic are committed to learning about the world and the issues we face. Philanthropy helps broaden perspectives and enhances understanding, empathy and enthusiasm for making change. Marilyn W. Zack Community Foundation vice president, development
Grand Rapids Community Foundation is a nonprofit organization that connects people, passion and resources. Over the last 100 years, people who care about the future of Kent County have built the Community Foundation through their time, financial resources and thought partnership. Our partners - donors, nonprofits, leaders, doers and more - consistently trust us to help bring key issues to the forefront to build community will, investment and collaboration needed to inspire change.
TO HEAR MORE PERSPECTIVES ON PHILANTHROPY, FLIP TO PAGE 9.
Kyle Caldwell Community Foundation, Board of Trustees chair
3 A COMMITMENT TO SERVICE 4 VISUALIZING PHILANTHROPY 6 A HISTORY OF SUPPORT FOR NONPROFITS 7 PARTNERS IN PROGRESS 8 PHILANTHROPIC PARTNERSHIPS OF TODAY 9 DEFINING PHILANTHROPY
12 THIS & THAT @GRCommFound
Graphic Design: Michele Keren Design Photography: Alfield Reeves Photography, Bird + Bird Studio, Christopher Groenink Copyediting: Joan Huyser-Honig
PARTNERS in community
WHY IS PHILANTHROPY IMPORTANT? Philanthropy is core to a healthy community and a healthy democracy. Teaching and practicing acts of care and giving can break down barriers, help us see our shared humanity, give us tools for free expression and bolster our belief in helping others. Philanthropy serves as an essential thread in the tapestry of community life—a bright, strong and valuable resource for communities to advance the common good.
10 DIANA R. SIEGER CONSTANT DONOR LEVEL
quarterly publication of Grand Rapids Community Foundation Contributing writers: Ashley René Lee, Heather Gill Fox, Audra Hartges-Stern, Diana R. Sieger
HOW DO YOU DEFINE PHILANTHROPY? Philanthropy is a responsibility. When one has the means to be helping others, it becomes part of the role we play in living in a community. It’s about being sure that we don’t get comfortable once we’re secure; we can only be satisfied once everyone has been accounted for. We all need a little help sometimes. Helping people who need it or ask for it is part of being human.
SPRING 2022 | Issue 91
PARTNERS in Philanthropy When Grand Rapids Community Foundation was founded in 1922 as Michigan’s first community foundation, it was an opportunity to grow resources to address our area’s everchanging needs. The concept caught on with many people coming together over the years to do good in our community. A century later, the Community Foundation stands on the shoulders of our partners as an active demonstration of the commitment of people who believe in investing in Kent County’s long-term growth and sustainability. We celebrate and honor the legacy of philanthropy that has made our work possible. We’re grateful for all the individuals, families, nonprofits, community leaders and more who have come together to commit resources, skills, network, influence and dollars to create a better community. While our approach has evolved since our founding, our purpose remains. The Community Foundation exists to connect people, passion and resources to address pressing issues impacting our community today and into the future. We have not wavered from that in the last 100 years and will not in the future. As we embark on a new century of service and impact, it is important that we also take time to reflect on our past and engage with community to shape our future focus. In honor of this extraordinary moment in our history, we will be curating a special Centennial Collection of PARTNERS in community magazine throughout 2022. This series will explore the core components of our work—philanthropy, legacy, partnership and community and equity. In this first centennial issue, we explore philanthropy through the lens of our history, impact, growth, learning and future focus.
Throughout our history, we have worked with countless partners to leverage philanthropic tools to champion for social justice and critical issues in our community. The Community Foundation provided support for basic needs during the Great Depression. In the 1940s, we launched our scholarship program to address the shortage of nurses and other healthcare workers during World War II. With the emergence of HIV/AIDs, we collaborated with many organizations and administered the AIDS Fund beginning in 1990. In the 1990s, the rate of child abuse and neglect was alarming, so we collaborated with Kent County and child welfare agencies to create prevention programming. Core issues like affordable housing and education have been central to our work throughout our history. Today, as we lean further into our commitment to racial, social and economic justice and building an inclusive economy, we are reminded of how far the tools of philanthropy have brought us. We are also reminded of how much our definition and understanding of what it means to be a philanthropist has evolved. With the support of our many partners who have given of their time, financial resources and thought partnership, the Community Foundation has invested $265 million (and counting) in grants and scholarships to make bold change possible in West Michigan. I am excited about the future of our community and the work we will continue to do together by leveraging the tools of philanthropy.
Throughout our centennial year, we will be gathering stories and aspirations to understand our community’s collective vision for the future of Kent County. This will inform our work in our next century of service and impact. Please visit GRFoundation.org/Centennial and follow us on social media @GRCommFound to learn more.
A Commitment to Service Her late husband Bill used to describe Patricia Edison as a professional volunteer—a phrase that only begins to capture her philanthropic heart and actions. Pat shows commitment and love through giving in so many ways. Except for one year after getting married, Pat has spent her life in Grand Rapids, and her example will leave a lasting impact here. Her legacy will live on through the lessons passed down to her great-grandchildren and the picture of giving she models for community. Pat is known for being incredibly involved in community through volunteerism and donations. This involvement led her to Grand Rapids Community Foundation’s Board of Trustees in 1971. When the Community Foundation was looking for a new executive director, Pat mentioned to her husband that she thought she could do it. Much to her surprise, considering that era’s views on women in the workforce, Bill immediately agreed and supported her as she continued interviewing for the position. She was right: she was perfect for the role. As executive director, Pat used her skills to advance not only her personal philanthropy but also to make a huge change in community. Pat led the Community Foundation as its first female executive director until 1987, when she passed the baton to Diana Sieger, the current president. Besides leaving sticky notes in file folders to draw attention to important documents and notes, Pat emphasized the importance of making sure community voice is incorporated into decision making. At that time, the emergence of neighborhood associations was a critical link to the broader community. She still sees the Community Foundation’s role as centered in community engagement, demonstrating her philanthropic ethos. “There will always be a need for leadership,” says Pat. “And there is an equal need to listen to what the people want. There are people here who care so much. It always seemed to me that if there was a problem in Grand Rapids, there was an organization that was already at work trying to alleviate it.” Ever humble, Pat has a way of shifting attention away from her own accomplishments, instead preferring to tell stories of startups making a difference and the importance of collaboration. The moments she is
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Pictured above: Diana Sieger and Patricia Edison
“No gift is too small, whether it’s a gift of finance or a gift of time or talent.”
“There will always be a need for leadership,” says Pat. “And there is an equal need to listen to what the people want.”
most proud of during her time at the Community Foundation demonstrate her others-focused leadership style. Pat is proud of laying the groundwork to create Friends of the Foundation, which encouraged and clarified ways people could leave legacy gifts and thus support causes they cared about beyond their lifetimes. She also helped the Community Foundation leverage its resources to adapt to community needs, noting in particular, support for the arts and social service sectors after federal funding cuts in the early 1980s. She recalls a small nonprofit startup, Ears for the Deaf, that received funding from the Community Foundation. That organization is now known as Paws With A Cause. “As the old saying goes, ‘great oaks from little acorns grow,’” says Pat. Leaving a lasting legacy, being responsive and adaptable to changing needs and supporting community-generated solutions are cornerstones in how Pat talks about philanthropy. Her influence not only impacted the Community Foundation, but also modeled for others how to demonstrate their care for Grand Rapids. For those just starting their philanthropic journey, Pat has a few words of wisdom. “First, follow your heart. Make the gift and become involved with the organization that you most respect and are interested in. The second thing to remember is that no gift is too small, whether it’s a gift of finance or a gift of time or talent.” H.G.F. T.G.
At its core, philanthropy is about using the resources we have to care for others. The love we each express through philanthropy makes Kent County a better place. It’s taken all forms of philanthropy—over a century—to create what Grand Rapids Community Foundation is today.
VISUALIZING
Philanthropy
Our partners express their philanthropy in many ways, evolving the Community Foundation’s understanding of what philanthropy is over time. Together, we are stewards of change—connecting people, passion and resources.
YOUR PHILANTHROPY IN ACTION
VOLUNTEERING & THOUGHT PARTNERSHIP
Community members guide and advise the Community Foundation’s work through volunteer committees such as Investment Review and Black Legacy Fund.
100+ scholarship committee volunteers review applications annually, awarding $1 million+ to students.
USING YOUR VOICE FOR ADVOCACY
Looking to volunteer locally? Organizations like Heart of West Michigan United Way or Grand Rapids Mutual Aid Network can help you get connected to nonprofit organizations.
MAKING A GIFT THAT MEETS YOUR PHILANTHROPIC GOALS Endowed funds create security for our future.
Share about the issues and nonprofits that mean the most to you. Advocating for the causes you care about can inspire others to learn, take action or give.
Express your values through art, helping others grow in understanding our community.
More than 80% of the 800+ funds at the Community Foundation are endowed. Our Fund for Community Good creates immediate impact through grant awards to nonprofit organizations Last year, 44 Kent County nonprofits were supported. A future gift—like an estate gift—shares your priorities with loved ones and creates a legacy of your generosity.
SPENDING & ENGAGING LOCALLY
326 members of our Metz Legacy Society have included the Community Foundation in their will or estate plans. Creating a Donor Advised fund allows you to direct gifts to the causes you care about.
By shopping local and supporting small businesses, you can spur on economic growth and opportunities in our community.
Which option is the best fit for you?
SHARING YOUR PASSION:
Our volunteer, nonprofit and donor partners give in a variety of ways to create a more equitable future for everyone in our community. We are filled with gratitude for the generosity that sustains and enriches our community. To discuss your philanthropic goals, reach out to a member of our development team at 616.454.1751.
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Participating in grassroots efforts, taking on a role in your neighborhood association or caring for your neighbors builds community and creates a sense of belonging. When everyone feels welcome to share their talents and experiences, our community thrives.
1990: the Community Foundation’s first Donor Advised fund is created. Last year, donor advisors directed more than $7 million in grant awards from their funds.
A History of Support for Local Nonprofits Area nonprofit organizations have been, since Grand Rapids Community Foundation’s creation, some of our most critical partners. The Community Foundation establishes relationships, grows the endowment, allocates resources and advocates for change. Nonprofit organizations engage community members, identify needs and implement programs and initiatives. Together—and with community leaders and grassroots movements—we can solve complicated problems and work to eliminate inequities in Kent County. EVOLVING PARTNERSHIPS TO MEET COMMUNITY NEED
Amidst the Great Depression, the Community Foundation used its
limited resources to make its first grants to area nonprofits. Four organizations received funds, reporting they were used to alleviate the suffering of families—in some cases purchasing sacks of flour, shoes and milk. In the decades since, the Community Foundation has grown and West Michigan’s nonprofit ecosystem has multiplied and evolved. Some organizations still do the critical work of meeting basic needs. Others have narrowed their focus to systems change. The ways we partner with nonprofit organizations have adapted. Besides providing financial support and technical assistance, we convene and connect networks and share learnings across systems.
1960 Grants focus on education, and the Community Foundation issues its largest gift to date: $50,000 to establish Grand Valley State College. Pictured: GVSU groundbreaking
1993 Volunteer partners lead the formation of a grant committee at the Community Foundation, creating greater community participation in funding decisions. Pictured: Shirley Daniels, volunteer and donor partner
2008 The Encore initiative was designed to challenge conventional thinking about aging and to spark innovation among local nonprofit organizations. These efforts were established to ensure Kent County fully leverages the talent and expertise of people in mid-life and beyond. Pictured: Encore event
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2020-PRESENT
1990s The Community Foundation grants about $3 million each year to a variety of nonprofit organizations. Pictured: Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park ribbon cutting
2003 The Nonprofit Technical Assistance Fund for Kent County, a collaborative program, is established. Through the fund, nonprofit organizations can apply for grants of up to $10,000 to support capacity building or technical assistance. Pictured: Baxter Community Center
2019 Grantmaking guidelines for the Fund for Community Good and Field of Interest funds are shifted, reflecting a commitment to racial, social and economic justice.
Area nonprofits face new challenges and Pictured: Ben Oliver (former staff) and Janean Couch (staff) create innovative solutions in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The Community Foundation collaborates with 2021 government, grassroots and faith-based organizations to address immediate and long-term impacts. Last year, thanks to the generosity of Pictured: A Shot of Love community members our donor partners and the growth of endowed funds, the Community Foundation was able to award more than $17 million to nonprofit partners working to create a better tomorrow. Pictured Ricardo Tavárez, executive director of New City Neighbors
Partners in Progress
Since December 2021, Grand Rapids Community Foundation’s Board of Trustees has approved $1,218,300 in grant awards to local nonprofits. Our donor partners’ generosity makes possible our grant support to community nonprofits’ critical work.
BLACK IMPACT COLLABORATIVE, $318,300
Black Impact Collaborative, an emerging anchor organization, is a group of Black-led organizations and concerned citizens which identify and illuminate the needs of Black people in Greater Grand Rapids. This grant partnership supports their ability to provide technology, training and end-of-life estate planning for Black elders. The grant will also provide support for reintegration into Greater Grand Rapids for Black people returning from incarceration. This partnership was made possible by the Lucy E. Barnett Trust for the Elderly and the Gordon and Mary Bowman Fund.
COUNCIL OF MICHIGAN FOUNDATIONS, $10,000
This grant award provides resources to the Statewide Equity Fund, designed to advance equitable strategies to address systemic challenges laid bare by the COVID-19 pandemic. This partnership was made possible by the Kent County COVID-19 Recovery Fund.
A PROACTIVE AND COMMUNITY-LED APPROACH TO NONPROFIT RELATIONSHIPS For decades, the Community Foundation built the endowment and was a reactive grantmaker, evaluating requests for support from nonprofit organizations with a wide variety of focuses. Introducing priority areas clarified our grantmaking focuses and introduced a more targeted approach.
LEADeres, a professional leadership development program, and Emprende, an entrepreneurship program, are the main programs of the Latino Business and Economic Development Center at Ferris State University. This grant award will enhance the center’s efforts to reduce economic disparity, increase civic engagement and offer leadership development in Latinx communities.
HEALTH NET OF WEST MICHIGAN: FITKIDS360, $160,000
FitKids360 provides a holistic approach to engage children and their families in education, play and learning to promote lifelong healthy behaviors. The program has seen exponential growth and demand for their services, especially due to the newly adapted materials for adolescents and Spanish-speaking populations. This grant partnership supports their transition to becoming an independent 501c3 organization, which will expand their programmatic and organizational capacity.
KCONNECT: HOUSING STABILITY ALLIANCE, $300,000
KConnect has recently launched Housing Kent, a community-led effort to drive equitable system change in housing. Housing Kent is the backbone organization for the Housing Stability Alliance. The grant award will help Housing Kent specifically focus on ensuring a clear path to economic prosperity through housing stability for Black and Latinx residents in our community.
KENT SCHOOL SERVICES NETWORK, $200,000
KSSN is a coalition of community health and human service providers working together for student wellbeing. This grant provides ongoing support to the community school model that ensures students (PreK12) have access to physical health, mental health and human services within their schools.
NONPROFIT TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE FUND, $80,000 This grant partnership is a continuing investment in a collaborative program that provides grants for consulting services to meet technical and organizational capacity needs for nonprofits in Kent County.
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We continue to learn and evolve our approach. Today the Community Foundation has a broad network of nonprofit partners. We see our role as building and sharing power to support their work. We leverage our unrestricted resources to invest in systems-level change that addresses the root causes of racial, social and economic inequities. We believe the people closest to the pain are also closest to the solution, and we listen to community members to inform our investments. A.H.S.
FERRIS FOUNDATION, $150,000
Philanthropic Partnerships of Today:
Black Impact Collaborative The work of Grand Rapids Community Foundation over the last century has required us to evolve in many ways. The lessons we’ve learned have required us to not only evaluate how we approach our work, but also with whom we partner.
Through grantmaking from unrestricted resources, we seek to partner with community-led organizations doing systemslevel work that addresses the root causes of racial, social and economic injustice. With that, we are also working to find ways to better resource grassroots movements and organizations. Also, our philanthropic services team intentionally introduces donor advisors to opportunities to support nonprofits that align with their philanthropic interests while also advancing equity. We understand that today’s complex needs require a variety of philanthropic tools. Our partnership with Black Impact Collaborative, an emerging anchor organization, reflects this approach. BIC brings together several Black-led organizations and concerned citizens to identify and illuminate the needs of Black people in Greater Grand Rapids in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond. It balances responsiveness to real-time issues with activating its network and resources to address long-term systems change. BIC demonstrates how cross-functional partnerships are emerging in community to answer current needs and anticipate future needs by focusing on seven impact areas. We connected with a few BIC leaders recently to learn more about their work. Can you share a bit about BIC’s organizational model and the benefits of this collaborative approach to change making?
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Rev. Eula C. Gaddis, DMin, BIC Incarcerated Committee chair: The BIC model touches the areas of life that are vital to Black Americans locally, as well as nationally. To name a few: education, economic security, health and well-being, the elder generation and incarcerated persons. I believe in order to support the betterment and advancement of Black Americans living in West Michigan, the need for a multi-pronged approach is necessary. Senita Lenear, BIC member: The adages “…my brother’s and sister’s keeper” and “it takes a village…” are the Black Impact Collaborative’s model in action…A number of entities working collectively and sharing resources, wisdom, programs, access and advocacy is our collaborative approach. When working together, you have greater impact and outcomes and can stretch the dollars entrusted to you. The Community Foundation appreciates BIC’s ability to balance being responsive to real-time issues impacting Black communities with working to address long-term systemic inequity. Can you share how you maintain this balance?
SL: It immediately became apparent that the BIC needed to become an organization that lasts beyond addressing issues surrounding COVID-19, because we saw how COVID-19 exacerbated existing issues plaguing our community. Our original Position Paper 2.0—a statement Photos from BIC’s of position documents that outlined data, challenges Roll.Bounce.GR Juneteenth roller and recommendations surrounding COVID-19—was skating event. published one month after we started meeting. Within that document we shared the need to continue our work “beyond COVID-19” strategies. To learn more There is so much work to be done, but we are committed to staying the course and grateful that about Black Impact Collaborative, visit the Grand Rapids Community Foundation has BICGR.com. invested financially in our “beyond.” Since BIC’s founding, what lessons have you learned and how has the organization grown and evolved? Kenisha Dorsey, BIC secretary and Communications Committee chair: When I think about when COVID-19 first hit, there were reports surfacing everywhere about disparity. There is so much work to be done in various areas, and I think BIC has evolved into an organization that focuses on the disproportionality that continues to be evident in Greater Grand Rapids. We work collaboratively with grassroot organizations to create an atmosphere of trust and a “here to help” mentality. Rev. ECG: The organization went from an idea and concept to a credible source for support for Black families in West Michigan. The main lesson exists in the organization’s name: “collaborative.” When people who are determined to make a difference work collaboratively toward the same goal, anything is possible. Many BIC members knew one another through community
work or professional encounters. However, the organization has evolved into a group of committed individuals working together to bring about change in the community.
The Community Foundation has partnered with BIC to support initiatives related to COVID-19 response, eldercare and returning citizens. What milestones, accomplishments or discoveries can you share?
What do you see for the future of BIC? KD: BIC’s responsive communication platform is key to determining how the future of BIC looks. It is our desire to build on the premises that we need to gather as much information as possible and [continue to] share information for the well-being of Black Greater Grand Rapids. There are many barriers that exist to just getting some of the simple information that’s needed regarding resources. Rev. ECG: The future for BIC will further expand its reach into areas where there is a much-needed change. The plight of incarcerated persons and providing the necessary support for individuals and families is vital. BIC is investigating programs that will sever the school-to-prison pipeline, advocate for persons in the justice system, provide family support and secure post-release programming for returning citizens.
KD: We are grateful for the support and partnership with the Community Foundation. This partnership allows us to expand on the need to inform, educate and bring vaccine information and education to the Black community. BIC has been able to create events to provide education and information regarding COVID-19 vaccine clinics as well as provide information on the virus. Partnering helps BIC broaden the reach. There have been successful vaccine clinics held at various churches with a goal to create neighborhood-specific vaccine clinics. Current accomplishments include providing information and education to 246 Black businesses about BIC and its vaccine initiatives. Efforts continue to create programming around the top five health conditions affecting the Black community at disproportionate rates and share COVID-19 and vaccine clinic information during specific engagements. T.G.
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What Our Partners Are Saying: Defining
Philanthropy
Community Foundation financial analyst
*Deceased, quote from 1973 when he was board chair for the Community Foundation
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Fund for Community Good volunteer
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100 New Philanthropist
Describe your giving and how you make giving decisions. “My giving decisions, including time, funding and grassroots hard work, have been in line with the things that have been important to my family over our course of growth. As we grow and learn, we understand where needs are and do our best to support them, to make a difference and to start the ripple or grow the ripple.”
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Somos Comunidad Fund volunteer
People of color have a long history of giving selflessly of their time, talents and treasures to pour back into our communities. How have you seen this show up in your personal experience? “I’ve seen philanthropy play out in the Latino community, the Black community, different communities, at different levels. I think people that have grown up under systems of oppression tend to dedicate their lives to changing those systems. They give their entire lifetime to change these systems of oppression. I think that’s one way to give. I also see it person to person, just people giving and helping out their neighbors.”
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How do you define What lessons about giving philanthropy were you taught growing and what can it “Part of the philosophy of up that inspire your accomplish? The Foundation is that we generosity today? “Philanthropy is a colonial should within reason go “Philanthropy is important construct steeped in into things which reflect imperialism and patriarchy— because it is a vehicle for the changing social and meaning that those with us to enact meaningful environmental scene…The resources have often change quickly that reflects role of The Grand Rapids “remedied” problems of community need. If it is Foundation in such cases those with less resources. within your power to help, is to take the risk of the The answers to problems then help. No matter how experiment, to provide the in marginality are found in small or inconsequential it seed money for a potentially the margins. Philanthropy, might seem, if we each do worthwhile service or to me, is being the most what we can to support one agency, then get out.” human you could possibly another, we all benefit in the be. When worked WITH end.” and IN communities of marginality, great things can be accomplished. True equity can be found by the In the next issue of PARTNERS in giving of compassion from community, we will be exploring the theme those with resources. This of legacy. Are you interested in submitting a can only be done by allowing perspective on the topic? [grant partners] time to build meaningful relationships in Send an email with your thoughts to communities.” Communications@GRFoundation.org.
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During our centennial year, we will include a variety of voices and perspectives from partners about theme’s we are exploring in each issue of PARTNERS in community. For this issue, we asked staff and volunteers to define philanthropy, acknowledging that Grand Rapids Community Foundation’s understanding of philanthropy has evolved. Over the last century, we’ve broadened our perspective to include a spectrum of cultures and giving styles. We asked partners to share why they believed philanthropy was important and what it could accomplish. Some shared with us the culture, lessons and experiences that inspire their generosity today.
Diana R. Sieger Constant Donor Level
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Commitment and dedication sum up Grand Rapids Community Foundation President Diana Sieger, who has provided nearly 35 years of service. We are grateful to the donors listed below who, like Diana, demonstrate consistent and dedicated support. Diana R. Sieger Constant Donor Level donors have made a gift to one or more of our fund types—including Donor Advised, designated, Field of Interest, scholarship, special project or unrestricted funds—for the last five or more consecutive fiscal years as of June 30, 2021. Andrew and Sonja Acosta . Rick and Loy Adamy . Brian and Ronna Alexander . Amazon Smile Foundation . Emily Ambs . Ms. O’Linda L. Anderson . Anonymous (16) . Frederick J. Antczak and Deborah J. Hughes . Thomas Appel . Mary M. Appelt, M.D. . Paul and Marty Arnold . Deborah Autman . Bob and Patty Ayars . Joanne Ayotte . John and Janet Baab . David and Janice Bailey . Tod Bailey . Joel and Susan* Bair . Carl* and Claudia Bajema . Lori J. Baker . Brian and Deanna Bakker . Rita D. Balczak . Bank of America Charitable Foundation . Christopher Barnes and Jessica Lalley . Maurice A. and Connie Barnes Sr. . Ms. Billie Barszcz . Rob and Shelly Batterbee . Laurie Finney Beard . Jared Belka . Shelly Belstra . Rosemary Bennett . Vickie and Tom Bergers . Darlene Berghorst . Louis and Linda Berra . Ken Betz and Pat Brewer . Dr. William H. Beute . Rick and Kimerlee Billings . Ruth E. Bishop . Lynne Black . Rich and Debra Black . Ben Boerkoel . Mr. and Mrs. Rodney Boerman . Jim and Wendy BooydeGraaff . Glen* and Betsy Borre . Eric Bouwens and Yenching Hsu . Janet and John Boyles . Doug and Dawn Brackmann . Barbara Bradley and Ronald Feenstra . John and Virginia* Braley . Jean S. Breay . Tracy and Tom* Breihof . James and Sharon Breuker . The Brooks Family . Andrew and Janay Brower . Robert D. and Katherine M. Brower . Jim and Susan Brown . John and Suzette Buchan . Kathryn Bumgardner . Anna Moore Butzner . William H. Bylenga . Kyle and Juliann Caldwell . David and Jean Campbell . Katharine Cangelosi . Chris and Staci Carlson . Dr. Neil Carlson . Betts and Jim Casey . Ms. Kalista A. Castine . CDV5 Foundation . Darlene Ceremello and Jessea Greenman . Rick and Willow Chapla . Iain and Michaele Charnley . Thomas and Natalie Chase . The Chelovich Family . Mr. and Mrs. F. Norman Christopher . Jim and Pat Clay . Mr. Bruce Clearing Sky Christensen . Mr. and Mrs. Frederick R. Clemens Jr. . Dotti Clune and Jill Henemyer . Rob and Diane Collier . Conway Family Foundation . Ms. Mary Cook . Huey G. and Mary Copeland . Janean and Michael Couch . Dr. Ed and Linda Cox . Laurie and Crawford Craft . Bob and Julie Currier . Tom and Jan Czerney . Tom and Gale Czerwinski . Bill and Margie Darooge . Dr. Gerald* and Gwendolyn Dawkins . Tina Freese Decker and Jason Decker . David and Donna Deeb . The Charles J DeLanoy Family Charitable Foundation . Eric and Sharai DeLong . Barbara DeMoor and Clive Morris . Dave and Bridget De Vos . Ron and Jeanne DeWaard . Martha and Nick Dewey . Gail O. DeYoung and F. Jay Schoettley . Mary DeYoung . Daniel and Catherine Diedrich . Beth and Ross Dornan . Jason and Stephanie Doublestein . Nancy L. Douglas . Paul and Celeste Doyle . Douglas and Kristine Dozeman . Mr. and Mrs. Carl W. Dufendach . Lucy Dyer Joswick and Scott Joswick . Patricia H. Edison . Mrs. Penny Edison . Cheryl Elenbaas .
Mark and Jennifer Ellis . Michelle Ellison . Ben Emdin . Jean Enright . Pat and Dan Esch . Ms. Andrea L. Essling . Bill and Kay Farr . Eric and Kelly Fischer . Greg and Sarah Flick . Gene and Nyla Fonger . Mary and Bill Ford . Barb Forseman . Dr. Tony and Linda Nemec Foster . Henry A. (Happy) Fox Jr. . John and Kristine Fox . Thomas S. and Maxine J. Fox and Family . Jason Franklin of the Ktisis Fund of RSF Social Finance . Paula and Michael Freed . Peter and Lori French . Frey Foundation . Mr. and Mrs. David G. Frey . Brad and Jeanie Friedland . Margie Gage . Lawrence Gammons . Don and Laurie Gardner . Gerber Companies Foundation . Mr. and Mrs. Michael Gill . Cheryl Gillett . Linsey Gleason . Mr. and Mrs. Thomas D. Gleason . Keith and Lisa Gohlke . Mike and Rachel Goorhouse . Srikanth Gopal . Ken Grashuis and Lori Lockyear . Phillip and Vanessa Greene . Justin and Jodie Gritter . Dan Grzywacz and Holly Westhouse . Rená and Gary Guttrich . Scott and Gail Haebich . Dick Hansen . Mr. and Mrs. William H. Hardy Jr. . Jackie Haveman and Nathan Dwiri . Mr. Kenneth W. Heffner and Dr. Gail Gunst Heffner . Jason Herlands and Gen Kobayashi . Ms. Ann C. Hess . John and Gwen Hibbard . David Hibschman . Dan and Diane Hickey . David Hill and Elizabeth Kidd . Jeff and Laura Hill . Ken and Sandy Hofman . Russell J. and Barbara Hohman Family . Pat Holmes . Mark and Wendy Holtvluwer . Jane Hondelink . Jack L. Hornbach . Mr. Timothy L. Horner . Richard and Anne Horvitz . Eleanore Howieson . John and Janyce Huff . Robert L. Hughes . Katherine Humphrey . John Hunting . Steven and Joan Huyser-Honig . Integrity Business Solutions LLC . Win and Kyle Irwin . Robert and Paulette Israels . Cherry and Phil Jacobus . Ellen M. James . Mrs. Lois Jandernoa . Matthew and Keri Jaynes . Laura Jeltema . Mark and Beth Johnson . Patricia Jones . Tom* and Margy Jones . Joseph and Elizabeth Junewick . Bryan and Kelly Kading . Mamie Kalliel . Carol Karr and Kevin Briggs . Mary and Dan Karrip . Corrine E. Kass . Nancy Kehoe Nielsen . The Keller Foundation . Andy and Christina Keller . Mr. Fred P. Keller . The W. K. Kellogg Foundation Matching Gift Program . Paul and Beth Kelly . John and Nancy Kennedy . Kent Charitable Trust . Mike Kerkorian and Chris Penzien . John Kershek and John Potter . Mr. and Mrs. Kristopher Kimball . Kurt and Randy Kimball . Vicki and Tom Kimball . Mr. and Mrs. Glenn Kimmel . Roberta F. King and Mike J. Miesch . Doug and Pat Klein . Jim Knack . S A “Skip” and Debbie Knapp . Ron and Jeanne Koehler . Douglas and Louann Kohlbeck . Mr. and Mrs. Jonathon P. Kok . Jan Koopman . Ron and Bonnie Kopp . David A. and Phyllis E. Koslow . John E. Kotwick . Daniel* and Mary Kozera . Jerry and Wendy Kregel . Diane and Mike Kroll Blake and Mary Krueger . Janet M Krueger and Bruce Goodman . Dr. David and Mary Kutsche . Ruth Kutsche . Cris
Smith . Peggy J. Smith . Warren and Nancy Smith . Sara Smolenski and Linda Burpee . Corinne Sprague . Steven and Cathy Starnes . Terrence M. Start . Steelcase Foundation . Craig and Cheri Stein . Deb and Fred Steketee . Rick and Sue Steketee . Steve Steketee . Mr. Justin W. Stemple . Stan and Norma Sterk . Wendy Stock . Amy and Nicholas Stockero . Susan A. Stoddard . George Stoutin and Dave Heilman . Philip and Dawnielle Streng . Bill Stroh . Judy Subar . Frank and Ruth Suskey . Lon and Sandy Swartzentruber . Jim and Pat Talen . Michael and Susan Taylor . Jill and Art Tiefenbach . Martin and Louise Timkovich . Betsey Tinkham . Claude and Sharyl Titche . Ms. Marilyn Titche . Robert and Colleen Tobin . Mr. and Mrs. Robert F. Tomsik Jr. . Jenine and Jose Torres . Philip and Diane Tower . Caitlin and Paul Townsend Lamb . Carol L. Townsend . Ms. Patti Trepkowski . Verlee and Mary Trice . Douglas and Elizabeth Triezenberg . Laura and Steve Triezenberg . George and Kerstin Trowbridge . Selma Tucker . Donald and Mary Tuttle . Rudy and Nancy Van Donk . Frank and Sharon Van Haven . Andy and Tracy Van Solkema . Don and Ruth Van Stee . Mr. and Mrs. Rodney J. Van Tol . Selene Van Vleck . Mr. and Mrs. Matthew VanZetten . Douglas and Kathy Vance . Lorrie and Dave Vander Ark . Simon and Mary Vander Kooy Foundation . Mr. and Mrs. Stan Vander Roest . Dan and Judy Vandersteen . John and Diane VanderVeen . Mr. and Mrs. Larry A. Ver Merris . Mrs. Patricia Ver Sluis . Ben and Emily VerWys . Phil and Kathy Vogelsang . Bobbie and Gary Vruggink . Ms. Susan M. Waddell . Gary Walker . Anita Wallgren . Warner Norcross + Judd . Mary Warner . Lynn Warshaw and Vicki Esch . Wege Foundation . Elizabeth Welch and Brian Schwartz . Ms. Aleta Wells . Barbara Wepman . Larry and Susan Whipple . Mary White . Larry and Betsy Willey . Drs. Chad and Kathy Williams . Jeff and Janet Williams . Robert C. Williams . Janice Williford . Joan Wilson . Loyd Winer . Susan Wittenbach . Aleicia Woodrick . Katie Woods . Gabriel Works and John O’Connor* , Sarah and Greg Yoder . Kurt and Sally Yost . Bruce Young . Cameron Young . Marilyn and Garrett Zack . Joan and Jim Zawacki . William F. Zoellmer III . George and Gretchen Zuiderveen . Betty Zylstra and David Baak . Bob J. Zylstra * Deceased
We go to great lengths to list each donor according to their personal preference. If you wish to have your recognition name listed differently or spotted a typo in your name, please accept our apologies and let us know by calling 616.454.1751 with any changes. Names in Bold. In recognition of our centennial year, we would like to recognize those partners who have shown long-time support by providing 10 or more years of loyal support to our priority funding areas supporting our community’s ever-changing needs. These donors are working to address our community’s deep racial, social and economic injustices through supporting Fund for Community Good, Fund for Education, Fund for Environment, Fund for Neighborhoods, Fund for Heath, Fund for Economic Prosperity, Fund for Arts and Social Engagement, Challenge Scholars, Black Legacy Fund and/or Our LGBTQ Fund. We honor their long-time commitment to this vision.
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and Tom Kutzli . Tom and Sally Kyros . Susan and Brad Laffrey Fund . Virginia LaGrand . Rob and Linda Lalley . Marilyn Lankfer and Jeff Schad . B. Kenneth Larm . Paul and Nora LeBlanc . Leedy Holdings Inc. . Gary and Janeen Lemke . Mark and Marcie Lewis . Ping and Tim Liang . Ray Loeschner . Ken and Jane Lovell . Arend and Nancy Lubbers . Peter Lundeen . John* and Suzie Mackeigan . Jon and Mary Ann March . Barbara P. Marcus . Mr. and Mrs. Rodney D. Martin . Dr. Ralph E. Mathis . Ardath McCall . Mrs. Teresa McCarty . Dennis and Julie McCrary . Kate and John McGarry . Terry McGovern and Carol Paine-McGovern . Michelle McHale-Adams and George Adams . Brenda L. McKean . Linda Mears . Joseph and Tina Meckley . Connie R. Medema . David Meier . Lena Meijer* . Aaron and Kimberly Meles . Dr. Dan P. Millar and Mrs. Karen Lee Carpenter Millar . Bill and Pam Mitchell . Bryant and Audrey Mitchell . Ronald and Karen Modreski . Gordie and Jan Moeller . Cheryl Molhoek . Mr. David W. Morgenstern . Mr. and Mrs. Gene Morrison . Morton Family . James and Sherry Moyer . Terri A. Mulligan . Judge William B. Murphy and Paula Murphy . Matt and Stephanie Muscat . Bob and Margaret Nault . Khan and Liza Nedd . Nate and Lisa Nelson . Mark Nettleton . Thomas and Marcia Nobel . Gary and Peg Novosad . Robin Nunn . Ken Nysson and Carol Hennessy, Commissioner . Judge W. Baldwin and Judy Ogden . Dan and Ann O’Keefe . Mark and Judy Olesnavage . Ward Oliver and Catharine Grad . Mr. Gerald Olson . Timothy J. and Debra D. O’Rourke . Dr. Theresa Osmer and Dr. Eric Graf . Matt and Beth Osterhaven . Martin* and Enid Packard . Bill Padnos and Margy Kaye . Hannah Padnos . Louis Padnos Iron & Metal Company . Mitchell and Karen Padnos . Shelley Padnos and Carol Sarosik . Chris and Joan Panopoulos . Ms. Linda B. Patterson . Ken and Jill Peirce . Julie Petrie . Larry and Jean Pinckney . Ms. Charlene Pletcher . Charles F. Pletcher . Charles Forrest Pletcher II, Sarah Granger and Julia Pletcher . Martha J. Porter . Marlowe Pranger and Melvina Vanderlinde . John and Ann Puckett . Dave and Laura Radle . Amy Ransler . Daniel and Judy Rau . Mr. and Mrs. Shaun A. Rayman . Carole Redwine . Hilda H. Reed . Mary Zoe Remien . Dale and Sherri Remmelts . Randy and Kris Renker . Rhoades McKee PC . Mr. and Mrs. Richard V. Rice . Carlyn Richards . R.E.A.P . Michael Rios . Richard A. Roane and Leandro Robles . Barbara A. Robinson . Sally and Larry Robson . Deb and Ron Roden . Milt and Barbara Rohwer . Dr. Jack and Lija Romence . Lisa M. Rose . Bob and Marcy Roth . Brian and June Rudy . Rebecca and Dale Rynbrandt . Mary Ann Sabo and Jeff Ott . Wade E. and Viola Sackner Foundation . Carlos Sanchez and Lynne Pope . David Sarnacki and Bridget Flynn . Robert E and Marcia L Schaub Family Foundation . Harold and Carol Schmidt . David* and Jerri Schroeder . Rana and Joseph Schwartz . Sebastian Foundation . Fred Sebulske . Melissa A. Seguin . Ms. Barbara R. Shapiro . Robert Shapton + Mary Reagan Shapton . Shaun and Ruth Shira . Diana R. Sieger . Mr. and Mrs. Theodore G. Simpkins . Eva Sitek . Brent and Diane Slay . Mr. Charles R. Sligh III . Mr. Richard C. Sligh . Deanna and Jamie Smith . Eric and Amy Smith . Mr. and Mrs. J. Patrick Smith . Mary Lou
Grand Rapids Community Foundation 185 Oakes Street SW Grand Rapids, MI 49503
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BOARD OF TRUSTEES TRANSITIONS We thank Carlos Sanchez, who recently retired from our Board of Trustees. Carlos served for eight years, including as board chair in 2016-2017. He will continue his volunteer service as chair of our Somos Comunidad Fund Advisory Committee, formerly Latinx Advisory Committee. Thank you, Carlos! On January 1, 2022, Grand Rapids Community Foundation welcomed Kyle Caldwell, president and CEO of the Council of Michigan Foundations, as its new board chair. Kyle has an extensive background in public and philanthropic sectors, including Michigan Community Service Commission, Michigan Nonprofit Association, Charles Stewart Mott Foundation and the Dorothy A. Johnson Center for Philanthropy. Kyle is well positioned to continue the expert leadership of the Community Foundation Board of Trustees, having served as a member of the board since 2018. WELCOME, CHANTAL Help us welcome Chantal Pasag, program officer, who joined the Community Foundation staff in January 2022. As a program officer, Chantal is responsible for facilitating resource allocation by community committees, leading our Youth Grant Committee activities and playing a supportive role in informing strategic opportunities and connections between the Community Foundation and our community partners at grassroots levels. Chantal comes to this role with experience from her work as design associate at West Michigan Center for Arts + Technology. At WMCAT, Chantal pushed for equitable outcomes as a human-centered design and equity-centered practice facilitator. Originally from Southern California, she earned her Bachelor of Arts in Communication & Mass Media from California State University, San Marcos. Her many skills include photography as the CEO and owner of Pasagraphy.
CONGRATULATIONS, ASHLEY! The Community Foundation is excited to announce the promotion of Ashley Emaus to financial analyst. Ashley has led our vendor analysis program, which strives to align our organizational spending with our North Star by prioritizing people of color, women and LGBTQ-owned local businesses. HAPPY RETIREMENT, MARY After 15 years of service, Mary Karrip is transitioning out of her role as development assistant to embark on her new journey: retirement! Mary’s stable, consistent and unwavering support and friendship has played a significant role in the Community Foundation’s success. We wish her all the best as she transitions into this next phase of life. SOMOS COMUNIDAD FUND ESTABLISHED Somos Comunidad Fund, led by community volunteers, was established to support Latinx focused and driven initiatives. Years in the making, the Latinx Advisory Committee launched the fund with an establishing gift from the Community Foundation. The committee is currently in the process of listening to Latinx communities in Kent County to determine focus areas for grant partnerships. The volunteers will develop an adaptable approach to balance support for immediate needs with addressing root causes of inequity. Learn more at GRFoundation.org/SomosComunidad. CENTENNIAL CELEBRATIONS This year Grand Rapids Community Foundation celebrates our 100th anniversary. This milestone year commemorates a century of responding to the everchanging needs of Greater Grand Rapids, and it marks the beginning of a new century of service and impact in our community. Learn how you can join in the celebration at GRFoundation.org/Centennial.
