PARTNERS in community
G RA N D
RA PIDS
COMMUNITY
FOUNDAT I ON
SENIOR LEADERSHIP TEAM Diana R. Sieger President Ashley René Lee Vice President, Public Relations & Marketing Kate Luckert Schmid Vice President, Program
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Stan Vander Roest Chief Financial Officer Marilyn W. Zack Vice President, Development
100 NEW PHILANTHROPISTS: MANDY AND CHRISTIAN CHARDOUL
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BOARD OF TRUSTEES
WEST MICHIGAN, IT’S TIME: OUR LGBTQ FUND REACHES $1 MILLION
Michael Rosloniec (Chair) Kathleen B. Vogelsang (Vice Chair) Kyle D. Caldwell Clara Kilburn Thomas Kyros Emily Loeks Ana Ramirez-Saenz Richard Roane Amy Ruis Carlos Sanchez Daniel Williams Reneé Williams
Tel: 616.454.1751 Fax: 616.454.6455 Email: grfound@grfoundation.org Website: grfoundation.org
PARTNERS in community is a
Grand Rapids Community Foundation is a nonprofit organization made up of nearly 800 funds that have been established by people over the last century to do good in our community, forever. Our community partners—donors, nonprofits, leaders, doers, and more—collaborate with us because they trust us. We stay in front of the ever-changing issues that impact our community and the organizations working to bring sustainable change. We help local philanthropists leave a lasting legacy by stewarding their assets to accomplish their goals.
INCUBATING BUSINESS ASPIRATIONS
8 MOVING ASPIRATIONS FORWARD: ONE FIRM’S COMMITMENT TO COMMUNITY
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quarterly publication of Grand Rapids Community Foundation Contributing writers: Ashley René Lee, Heather Gill Fox, Audra Hartges, Diana R. Sieger, Amanda St. Pierre, Melissa Albano
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@GRCommFound
A LEGACY OF LOVE AND FAMILY
Graphic Design: Seventh Creative Photography: Bird + Bird Studio, Brian Kelly Productions, Dreams by Bella Photography Copyediting: Joan Huyser-Honig
PARTNERS in community SPRING 2020 | Issue 83
PARTNERS IN PROGRESS
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CONGRATULATIONS ON YOUR RETIREMENT, LAURIE! 6 DIANA R. SIEGER CONSTANT DONOR LEVEL DONORS
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THIS & THAT 12
PARTNERS in Bold Aspirations At Grand Rapids Community Foundation, we have bold aspirations for the future of West Michigan. Our work is possible due to our donor, nonprofit and community partners who are relentless in their efforts to make those aspirations a reality. From building a place where black entrepreneurs can nurture and grow their businesses with community support and inspiration, to launching a fund to support the critical needs of the LGBTQ community throughout the region, our partners are bold in their quest to realize their dreams for West Michigan. Together, we are unapologetic about the potential we see in our region to create paths to opportunity, prosperity and true community for all. In my years of leadership at the Community Foundation, many things have changed. But one thing has remained the same, and that is that none of us can go it alone. When individuals and entities come together, the impact is far greater. Having the audacity to believe that collective change is possible is truly the essence of who we are as our community’s foundation—passionate people coming together to realize our aspirations, for today and for the future. PARTNERS in community | 3
ONE HUNDRED NEW PHILANTHROPISTS:
Mandy and Christian Chardoul Mandy Chardoul hails from Chicago and her husband, Christian, grew up in Eastern Michigan. Both spent their childhood summers in Charlevoix, but their paths never crossed. Years later, at the tail end of college, they met in Northern Michigan. After living in Seattle for 10 years, the couple was looking to plant roots closer to home in the Midwest before starting a family of their own. The Chardouls fell in love with the West Michigan community and officially made Grand Rapids their home in 2004. Mandy is a tax partner at Plante Moran and serves on Grand Rapids Community Foundation’s Professional Advisory Committee. Christian works as a freelance engineer. They love spending time in Northern Michigan, sailing, playing ice hockey and snow skiing with their children, Caroline and CW. Mandy and Christian are passionate about raising their children to be independent critical thinkers, problem solvers, engaged community members and future philanthropists. Their children attend Stepping Stones Montessori School, where these principles are modeled daily inside the classroom and encouraged at home.
WHY GRAND RAPIDS COMMUNITY FOUNDATION? The Chardouls say the Community Foundation staff helped them sit down as a couple and have critical conversations about their family’s philanthropy. “With One Hundred New Philanthropists, the Community Foundation set the ground for new philanthropists to come into the community and build confidence in giving. It’s like a training program or on-ramp for philanthropy,” says Christian. The Chardouls also appreciate that, while the One Hundred New Philanthropists campaign takes a holistic approach to philanthropy, it doesn’t require more time than they have to give at this stage in their lives. “It’s not just about giving dollars. It’s also about giving time. It’s about giving through your estate planning. It’s about giving through ideas and thought leadership,” Mandy says. “The Community Foundation saves us time, because they’re looking at community causes and needs, and they know how to partner with different organizations to create synergy of the dollar.”
WHY DO YOU GIVE? Christian and Mandy are inspired by the generosity of philanthropists who came before them. They are committed to doing their part and raising their children to do the same.
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“This community is built off of a lot of leaders who didn’t just think about themselves. They thought about the community, and they thought about sharing and giving. Everyone has their capacities, but it’s been something that we have tried to model in our own way. We want to follow those who led and be part of it too,” says Mandy. The Chardouls focus their philanthropy in many areas, ranging from supporting veterans to helping neighbors in need, but the cornerstone of their giving is education. “When we give, we see the benefit in all areas, whether it’s for classroom supplies and things like that or towards programs that allow teachers to further their Montessori education,” says Christian. A.R.L.
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As Grand Rapids Community Foundation moves toward its 100 th anniversary in 2022, we want to recognize people’s philanthropy. That’s why we created our One Hundred New Philanthropists campaign. This outreach effort asks people to do just four simple things: • Make annual gifts to the Community Foundation. • Volunteer in the community. • Make a provision in your estate plan for the Community Foundation. • Share your philanthropy story with us. If you are interested in joining One Hundred New Philanthropists, please contact Jenine Torres at 616.454.1751 x126 or jtorres@grfoundation.org.
West Michigan, IT ’ S
TI M E:
OUR LGBTQ FUND REACHES $1 MILLION Five years ago, a group of concerned community members partnered with Grand Rapids Community Foundation to spearhead changes in West Michigan. Since boldly stating, “It’s time to support our LGBTQ community,” Our LGBTQ Fund has raised more than $1 million. Through support from more than 500 community members, businesses and volunteers, this regional endowed fund is working to provide a safe, welcoming and healthy environment for the LGBTQ community in West Michigan today, and in the future.
ONE MILLION REASONS WHY
5 years 50 0+ donor partners $1M+ raised $192,50 0 grants awarded
Right now, the fund focuses on LGBTQ youth experiencing homelessness. It works to increase the capacity of existing service providers and leverage relationships within the LGBTQ community and allies. This regional fund supports local nonprofits and organizations doing incredible work in this space. One such nonprofit partner is Out On The Lakeshore, a community center providing safe spaces for regional LGBTQ youth. “At Out On The Lakeshore, we have youth and young adults walk into the center every week who say they are ‘just looking for a place to be,’” says Jeffrey Sorenson, Out On The Lakeshore director. “They have been bullied or excluded at school or at home. Sometimes just getting through the door takes a tremendous amount of courage. Out On The Lakeshore exists to make sure that they always have a place to belong and feel safe.” Besides supporting efforts like the Out On The Lakeshore community center, Our LGBTQ Fund has supported scholarships through the Trans Foundation, programs to stabilize and house LGBTQ youth experiencing homelessness with safe and affirming hosts, and more. To date, the fund has awarded $192,500 in grants.
IT TAKES ALL OF US Rising hate crimes and efforts to relegalize discrimination threaten the LGBTQ community. That’s why Our LGBTQ Fund is challenging the community to continue to step up and make a stand. Mark Nettleton has volunteered his time on the Our LGBTQ Fund Advisory Committee and supported the fund as a donor partner. “I am so pleased to support the work and efforts of Our LGBTQ Fund at Grand Rapids Community Foundation to assist organizations that help youth in crisis. The fund creates partnerships and opportunities in our West Michigan community to make LGBTQ youth safe, secure and successful,” says Mark.
GR ANT PARTNERSHIPS: Arbor Circle Grand Rapids Pride Center Grand Rapids Trans Foundation Grand Valley State University: LGBTQIA+ Social Justice Education Track Out On The Lakeshore Well House WANT TO SUPPORT OUR LGBTQ FUND? Visit givegr.org/lgbtqfund
INVESTING IN THE FUTURE
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While $1 million is worth celebrating, Our LGBTQ Fund is looking to the future and working to increase wellness and prosperity levels, visibility, acceptance, support and access to resources among the LGBTQ community. “Our LGBT Fund is reaching out to people like myself, who have experienced the same kind of struggles that others are now, and they are holding them to task,” says committee member Teri Jourdan. “They are asking them to give back to make the community better. You live here; make it better for everybody that lives here.”
PA RT N E R S
in Progress
Grand Rapids Community Foundation is fortunate to work alongside many amazing West Michigan nonprofits, donors and partners that boldly lead our community to be better. The Board of Trustees recently approved $180,000 in grants to two nonprofits.
IMMIGRANT CONNECTION, $100,000 Immigrant Connection has been a City Life Church initiative since 2015, dedicated to positively impact the local immigrant community. It provides the immigrant community with affordable legal services for United States citizenships, green cards and family sponsorship proceedings. Last year alone, Immigrant Connection served 300 new clients and currently has 700 open cases. This grant will support program expansion and outreach, while continuing to create low-cost legal services so immigrants can establish legal status, citizenship and family unity.
NONPROFIT TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE FUND, $80,000
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The Nonprofit Technical Assistance Fund is a collaborative fund supported by 10 local funding entities. The NPTA fund provides grants of $10,000 or less to help nonprofits meet specific technical, organizational, financial or structural needs by hiring a consultant of their choice. Grand Rapids Community Foundation has been providing support through annual grants to NPTA since 2004
CONGRATULATIONS ON YOUR RETIREMENT,
Laurie! “Don’t be afraid to take risks and don’t be afraid to fail—the only failure is in never trying,” says Laurie Craft as parting advice after nearly 30 years with Grand Rapids Community Foundation.
Laurie’s many roles and titles include her most recent position as vice president for community investment. She has shaped many aspects of the Community Foundation, including the Fund for Community Good. Her incredible leadership and deep commitment to community were vital to developing the Youth Grant Committee and Nonprofit Technical Assistance Fund. She has also been a leader in the areas of housing and program-related investments. “My favorite part of working at the Community Foundation was that I could contribute to making a difference in the community with its resources, and I could assist our donors to make a difference too,” Laurie says. “The opportunities to innovate, to develop relationships in the community, to identify new ways of making an impact—all these are things I appreciated.” We are grateful for the many years of wisdom, energy and passion Laurie brought to the Community Foundation. We look forward to seeing what adventure she takes on next in retirement.
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INCUBATING
BUSINESS ASPIRATIO NS Although Grand Rapids is experiencing exponential growth in some areas of the city, growth has been much slower in other areas. Not only has the geographic distribution of growth been uneven, but many entrepreneurs and investors of color have been left behind as well. One local organization is determined to bring the innovation, entrepreneurial spirit and tenacity of black entrepreneurs to the city’s southeast side. This area has historically been home to the largest concentration of black people in the city. Grand Rapids Area Black Businesses, an economic development organization supporting black businesses, is building The District 2012. This business incubation, co-working, convening and meeting space will also house GRABB’s headquarters. “With the majority of business development and entrepreneur support services densely concentrated in the downtown and very near downtown area, there’s great demand for what we will offer located in a historically marginalized and under-resourced area of our community,” says Jamiel Robinson, founder of GRABB. “At The District 2012, we’ll provide a robust offering of educational, mentoring, networking and capital resources.” Grand Rapids Community Foundation partnered with GRABB on this project through a $40,000 program-related investment to purchase property, located at 2012 Eastern Avenue SE, in one of Grand Rapids’ Opportunity Zones. A program related investment is a funding strategy that focuses on generating social or environmental impact alongside financial returns. The District 2012 is scheduled to open in fall 2020. “We’re working toward wealth creation through entrepreneurship and innovation for African Americans who have been excluded from Grand Rapids’ prosperity and economic boom,” Jamiel says.
He hopes to see commercial property vacancy rates decline in the Third Ward. GRABB aims to create on-ramps and foster relationships that connect black entrepreneurs to the larger business ecosystem. Since launching in 2012, GRABB has helped promote and grow local black businesses through monthly presentations, a business directory and GRABB MOBBS, which uses social media to mobilize people to shop at a specific black-owned business on a specific date. “Because of the investment partnership between Grand Rapids Area Black Businesses and Grand Rapids Community Foundation, we’re able to move on to the next phase in our organization’s development to build our headquarters and establish a hub for entrepreneurship and innovation in the southeast side of our city,” says Jamiel. Other project partners include the City of Grand Rapids, Michigan Economic Development Corporation, West Michigan Small Business Development Center, Grand Valley State University Center for Entrepreneurship & Innovation, financial institutions and several other entrepreneurial support organizations. “We are excited to partner with GRABB on this important initiative. This investment aligns perfectly with our North Star, which focuses on building an inclusive economy and thriving community,” said Stan Vander Roest, chief financial officer at the Community Foundation.
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MOVING A SPIR ATIONS FORWARD, TOGETHER:
One firm’s commitment to community We all have passions and dreams for our community. We may have a vision for more affordable housing, access to career opportunities or a community where every person feels they belong. While our vision may be clear, the considerations around how to use philanthropy to get there can feel overwhelming. Professional advisors—lawyers, accountants or other consultants—have long partnered with Grand Rapids Community Foundation. These advisors guide communityminded donors on their philanthropic options. They suggest giving types and vehicles based on intent, and implement plans. It’s a bonus for the Community Foundation to see professional advisors realize their own passions and dreams for our community through their own philanthropy.
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Miller Johnson helps their clients meet philanthropic goals through personal, financial and estate planning. The firm’s understanding of community issues and philanthropy goes beyond simply meeting their clients’ needs. The organization, as well as individual attorneys and staff, have a strong commitment to serving community through employee engagement programs, a scholarship fund and pro bono legal services to create change. The Miller Johnson team has demonstrated its commitment to creating greater access to prosperity and economic achievement for all in Kent County through their own community work. In 2009, Miller Johnson established the Miller Johnson West Michigan Diversity Scholarship Fund. The Community Foundation administers the scholarship fund, awarded to students of color attending an accredited law school. It has helped the firm attract and retain talent, like Kevin Battle. Originally from Muskegon, Kevin got to know the firm after receiving the scholarship and completing two summer internships. A.H.
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“Having a scholarship can be essential for law students, because the cost of legal education is so high,” Kevin says. Now an associate attorney at Miller Johnson, Kevin points out that to serve diverse clients and customers, the firm needs employees who can relate to them. The scholarship fund has provided more than $40,000 in total financial assistance since it was established. Miller Johnson’s highest honor is the John W. Cummiskey Spirit of Service Award. The award is named after founding member John Cummiskey, who is also namesake of the State Bar of Michigan’s award for pro bono contributions. The award acknowledges an employee’s contributions to the community through volunteering, pro bono work and other criteria, like promoting a more diverse workplace. Mary Bauman, the 2019 recipient of the Cummiskey Award, has served as chair of the firm’s Employee Benefits and Executive Compensation practice. She also chairs the Diversity and Inclusion Committee and helped establish a company-wide Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service after employees suggested increased engagement honoring Dr. King. In 2020, over 100 employees volunteered at 16 locations in the Grand Rapids and Kalamazoo areas. It was the firm’s 11th consecutive year of participation in the day of service. Mary encourages other business leaders and community members to find their interests in community engagement and encourage others to do the same. “You can’t get involved in something unless there’s some passion. And that passion is contagious,” she says. The advice applies to philanthropists too—define your aspiration and pursue it with optimism. Grand Rapids Community Foundation and your professional advisor will be honored to help.
A LEGACY OF
LOVE AND FAMILY Born Grand Rapidians, Jan and John Heerspink graduated from Calvin University (formerly Calvin College) before heading off to Ann Arbor. “We were married in 1966 and said we were never moving back to this provincial town,” Jan shared with a laugh. Open teaching positions led the Heerspinks to Battle Creek in 1968. In their free time, they played in the Battle Creek Symphony—Jan on timpani and John on violin. During this time, they also welcomed their two daughters, Amy and Andrea, to the world. Eventually, the Heerspinks found themselves drawn back to their hometown. “Grand Rapids had changed so much, and we had changed too. We had kids, both our families were here and John was offered an interesting professional position, so we came home,” Jan said. John was hired to be Calvin University’s planned giving director, an emerging profession at the time. While in this role, he started a group that is now the Western Michigan Planned Giving Group. Jan also secured a position with their alma mater. She joined Calvin’s academic support team, where she served students for 29 years. John left Calvin to start his own consultancy. During this time he became involved with Grand Rapids Community Foundation. Liking what he saw, he encouraged his parents to create a Donor Advised Fund at the Community Foundation. When he and Jan revised their estate plan, they also included a gift to the Community Foundation. John retired in 2007 and Jan followed in the fall of 2010. Just months later, John suffered a severe stroke. He spent months hospitalized and in inpatient rehab. He passed away in June 2012. “We had many things that we wanted to do together, but we didn’t get the chance,” Jan said.
Jan is an active volunteer and is very involved with LaGrave Christian Reformed Church. She’s an avid supporter of Opera Grand Rapids and serves on the Friends of the Opera Board. Last year, she made a qualified charitable
Scholarships are a big part of the Heerspink family giving. “During the Depression, John’s dad was attending Calvin College. Money was tight, so he decided that he could not return to college. A relative heard about this and gave him the money to continue through graduation. Later in life, when he could give back, he and Mom gave to scholarships and educational supports, among other good causes. This is one way that we learned to be donors,” Jan said. Long before his health took a turn, John created a notebook with all their important documents. “At least once a year, he’d say to me and our daughters, ‘You know where this notebook is, right?’ When he had a stroke, I needed that notebook. Now I’m working on getting it back in order,” Jan said. Jan is committed to supporting the things she holds dear after her lifetime. She plans to leave a gift to the Community Foundation in her estate plan and will continue working with the team to ensure her and John’s intentions are met. PLANNING IS IMPORTANT, LET US HELP Planning what will happen to your assets after your lifetime is important. Getting started is often the hardest part. We’re here to help you understand all your options and explore creative ways to leave your mark on the community you love. Let’s talk! Reach a member of our team at 616.454.1751.
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Since John’s passing, Jan has found joy in spending time with her children and grandchildren. This past summer, they took a trip of a lifetime together to Alaska. It was something she and John had dreamed of experiencing.
distribution from her IRA to the Opera Grand Rapids Fund at the Community Foundation.
DIANA R. SIEGER CONSTANT DONOR LEVEL Commitment and dedication sum up Grand Rapids Community Foundation President Diana Sieger, who has provided over 30 years of service. No matter the fund(s) they support, we are so grateful for all the donors listed below. Like Diana, these donor partners demonstrate consistent and dedicated support.
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Diana R. Sieger Contact 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, 2019. Rick and Loy Adamy Gasper J. Amodeo Mark and Wendy Anderson Ms. O’Linda L. Anderson Anonymous (14) Mary M. Appelt M.D. Paul and Marty Arnold Bob and Patty Ayars John and Janet Baab David and Janice Bailey Tod Bailey Joel and Susan Bair Carl and Claudia Bajema Lori J. Baker Mark and Mary Kay Baker Rick Baker and Bernie Elliott Bank of America Charitable Foundation Maurice A. and Connie Barnes Sr. Betsy and Jim Barton Rob and Shelly Batterbee Laurie Finney Beard Connie Bellows and Darlene Zwart Shelly Belstra Rosemary Bennett Darlene Berghorst Louis and Linda Berra John R. Bertsch Dr. William H. Beute Kimerlee and Rick Billings Ruth E. Bishop Lynne Black Mr. and Mrs. Rodney Boerman Dianne Boozer Glen and Betsy Borre Mr. and Mrs. Steve J. Boshoven John and Sharon* Bouma Janet and John Boyles Doug and Dawn Brackmann Barbara Bradley and Ronald Feenstra Molly Bradshaw* John and Virginia Braley Karl* and Darlene Braunschneider Jean S. Breay Mark Breon James and Sharon Breuker Pat Brewer and Ken Betz Fredrick “Fritz” Briscoe* Wayman and Dinah Britt
Andrew and Janay Brower Robert D. and Katherine M. Brower The Brown Group of the GR Federation of the U of M Alumnae Duane Brown and Kevin Martin Jim and Susan Brown John and Suzette Buchan Anna Moore Butzner Bill and Jackie Bylenga David and Jean Campbell Katharine Cangelosi Allan* and Claudia Carlson Betts and Jim Casey Stacey Cassis and Dr. Arianna Morales Ms. Kalista A. Castine Margot and Todd Cavalier CDV5 Foundation Iain and Michaele Charnley Tom and Natalie Chase Colin Chelovich and Molly Tupper Chelovich Clark Communications Mr. and Mrs. Paul and Mary Clark Jim and Pat Clay Mr. and Mrs. Frederick R. Clemens Jr. Dotti Clune and Jill Henemyer Gerry and Kay Colby Robert and Diane Collier Ms. Barbara E. Cone Conway Family Foundation Peter C. and Emajean Cook Foundation Ms. Mary Cook Huey G. and Mary Copeland Tripp and Kelli Corl Kay Courtney Dr. Ed and Linda Cox Laurie and Crawford Craft William G. Currie Foundation Tom and Jan Czerney Tom and Gale Czerwinski Dr. and Mrs. Robert E. Davis Dr. Gerald and Gwen Dawkins Bob and Lois De Boer Dorothy DeMaagd Barbara DeMoor and Clive Morris Doug & Maria DeVos Foundation Ron and Jeanne DeWaard Martha and Nick Dewey
Gail O. DeYoung and F. Jay Schoettley Mary DeYoung Dollar Bank Foundation Nancy L. Douglas Paul T. and Celeste Doyle Douglas and Kristine Dozeman Beverly Drake Lucy Dyer Joswick and Scott Joswick Patricia H. Edison Penny and John Edison Ms. Marla J. Ehlers Ben Emdin Jeanne Englehart and Jack Novick Pat and Dan Esch Ms. Andrea L. Essling Bill Essling Hank and Marcia Fairchild Bill and Kay Farr Greg and Sarah Flick Gene and Nyla Fonger Mary and Bill Ford Barb Forseman Dr. Tony Foster and Mrs. Linda Nemec Foster Henry A. (Happy) Fox Jr. Paula and Michael Freed Frey Foundation Mr. and Mrs. David G. Frey Margie Gage Larry W. Gammons and Carl I. Jennings* The Honorable Patricia D. Gardner and Mr. Kim DeStigter Pat and Patty Geary Cheryl Gillett Gene and Tubie Gilmore Linsey Gleason Thomas and Sally Gleason Keith and Lisa Gohlke Darrow and Flip Goodspeed Mike and Rachel Goorhouse Srikanth Gopal Grand Rapids Civic Theatre Ken Grashuis and Lori Lockyear Mr. and Mrs. Phillip X. Greene Justin and Jodie Gritter Dan Grzywacz and Holly Westhouse Rená and Gary Guttrich Scott and Gail Haebich Lew and Sheryl Haeck
Mr. and Mrs. Rudolph E. Hanka Dick Hansen Mr. and Mrs. William H. Hardy Jr. Jackie Haveman and Nathan Dwiri Heart of West Michigan United Way Jason Herlands and Gen Kobayashi Ms. Ann C. Hess John and Gwen Hibbard David Hibschman David Hill and Elizabeth Kidd Anne and Rich Hiskes Dirk and June Hoffius Mark and Wendy Holtvluwer Jane Hondelink Steven and Joan Huyser-Honig John L. Hornbach Richard and Anne Horvitz Robert and Eleanore Howieson Daniel and Joseph Huber John and Janyce Huff Deborah J. Hughes and Frederick J. Antczak Robert L. Hughes Sonya Hughes and Marianne Butcher Bonnie Hunter and Merl Morehouse Ms. Margaret P. Idema Integrity Business Solutions, LLC Win and Kyle Irwin Robert and Paulette Israels Cherry and Phil Jacobus Jandernoa Foundation Glen Johnson and Tom Merchant Patricia Jones Tom and Margy Jones Dr. Julian and Judith Joseph Joseph and Elizabeth Junewick Bryan and Kelly Kading Ray* and Mamie Kalliel Carol Karr and Kevin Briggs Mary and Dan Karrip Corrine E. Kass Paul and Suzanne Keep Nancy Kehoe Nielsen The Keller Foundation Andy and Christina Keller Mr. Fred P. Keller The W. K. Kellogg Foundation Paul and Beth Kelly John and Nancy Kennedy
Hon. David M. Murkowski and Ms. Diane E. Goller Judge William B. Murphy and Paula Murphy Jon and Carol Muth Bruce Myers Bob and Margaret Nault Thomas and Marcia Nobel Gary and Peg Novosad Mr. John V. O’Connor and Ms. E. Gabriel Works Judge W. Baldwin and Judy Ogden Dan and Ann O’Keefe Benjamin Oliver Ward Oliver and Catharine Grad Timothy J. and Debra D. O’Rourke Matt and Beth Osterhaven Martin and Enid Packard Hannah Padnos Louis Padnos Iron & Metal Company Ms. Linda B. Patterson Ken and Jill Peirce Peter and Carroll Perez John L. Peterson Mr. John H. Pimm Sr. Larry and Jean Pinckney Shirley Plaska Ms. Charlene Pletcher Charles F. Pletcher Charles Forrest Pletcher II, Sarah Granger and Julia Pletcher PNC Bank Martha J. Porter Scott Pruski John and Ann Puckett Daniel and Judy Rau Mr. Shaun A. Rayman Hilda H. Reed Mary Zoe Remien Dale and Sherri Remmelts Rhoades McKee PC Robert K. Richards and Ethel Z. Stears Michael Rios Sally and Larry Robson Rockford Construction Ron and Deb Roden Milt and Barbara Rohwer Michael and Christina Rosloniec Family Richard and Esther Ross Abraham G. and Anne L. Rossi Bob and Marcy Roth Mary Beth Roth Alwyn and Chris Rougier-Chapman Brian and June Rudy Curtis and Colleen Ruppal David Russell 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 Foundation Harold and Carol Schmidt David and Jerri Schroeder Rana and Joseph Schwartz Fred Sebulske Jim Sellman and David Balas* Ms. Barbara R. Shapiro Martin Shedleski Family 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 Ryan and Emily Slusarzyk Smith, Haughey, Rice & Roegge Eric and Amy Smith Mary Lou Smith Ms. Peggy Smith Terrence M. Start Steelcase Foundation Deb and Fred Steketee Rick and Sue Steketee Stan and Norma Sterk Wendy Stock Susan A. Stoddard Mr. George Stoutin and Mr. David Heilman Philip and Dawnielle Streng Bill Stroh Judy Subar Frank and Ruth Suskey Lon and Sandy Swartzentruber Eddie T.L. Tadlock Michael and Susan Taylor Jill and Art Tiefenbach Dan* and Betsey Tinkham Claude and Sharyl Titche Ms. Marilyn Titche Wayne Titche Robert and Colleen Tobin Mr. and Mrs. Robert F. Tomsik Jr. Caitlin and Paul Townsend Lamb Carol L. Townsend Ms. Patti Trepkowski Rick Treur Laura and Steve Triezenberg Cheryl and John Tully Mr. and Mrs. David J. Tulos Mr. Peter M. Turner Universal Forest Products, Inc. Rudy and Nancy Van Donk Michael and Kathryn Van Haren Geraldine M. Van Herp
Don and Ruth Van Stee Mr. and Mrs. Rodney J. Van Tol Selene Van Vleck Steve and Laura Vande Lune Don VandenBos Jr. Dave and Lorrie Vander Ark Judy and Dan Vandersteen John and Diane VanderVeen Andy and Tracy Van Solkema Mr. and Mrs. Matthew VanZetten Marvin Veneklasen Larry and Margaret Ver Merris Mrs. Patricia Ver Sluis Mr. and Mrs. Theodore J. Vlahas Phil and Kathleen Vogelsang Theodore J. Vogt Bobbie and Gary Vruggink Ms. Susan M. Waddell Gary Walker Anita Wallgren James and Pamela Walsh Warner Norcross + Judd Mary Warner Wege Foundation Elizabeth Welch and Brian Schwartz Wells Fargo Community Support Campaign Ms. Aleta Wells Barbara Wepman West Michigan Tag & Label, Inc. Walter F. Whitman Richard and Ellen Wicks Dorothy Wiest Larry and Betsy Willey Jeffrey S. and Janet K. Williams Joan Wilson Charles S. Winslow and Judy K. Sopeland Susan Wittenbach Dr. Richard J. Woltersom Kurt and Sally Yost Bruce Young Marilyn and Garrett Zack John Zadvinskis Ellie Frey Zagel and Chad Zagel Joan and Jim Zawacki Anne G. Zimmerman* Ruth and Jack Zimmerman William F. Zoellmer III George and Gretchen Zuiderveen Betty Zylstra and David Baak Bob J. Zylstra
If you would prefer your recognition name to be listed differently, please contact us at 616.454.1751. *Recently Deceased
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Mike Kerkorian and Chris Penzien John Kershek and John Potter Mr. and Mrs. Kristopher Kimball Kurt and Randy Kimball Vicki and Tom Kimball Roberta F. King and Mike J. Miesch Jim and Jane Knack Mr. Kevin Kobiela Douglas and Louann Kohlbeck Janet L. Koopman Ron and Bonnie Kopp David A. and Phyllis E. Koslow John Kotwick Daniel and Mary Kozera Jerry and Wendy Kregel Mira Krishnan and Teri Jourdan Diane Kroll Blake and Mary Krueger Mr. and Mrs. Rex Kuhn Dr. David and Mary Kutsche Ruth Kutsche Cris and Tom Kutzli Tom and Sally Kyros Mr. Mark LaChey and Mr. Bryan Hoffman 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 Ray Loeschner Marcia and Chuck Logie Ken and Jane Lovell Arend and Nancy Lubbers Mr. and Mrs. Elias Lumpkins Peter Lundeen Suzie Mackeigan Jon and Mary Ann March Barbara P. Marcus Dr. Ralph E. Mathis Gerald and Theresa Matthews Kate and John McGarry Terry McGovern and Carol Paine-McGovern Brenda L. McKean David Meier Lena Meijer Dr. Dan P. Millar and Mrs. Karen Lee Carpenter Millar Bonnie K. Miller Daniel Miller and Susan Wright-Miller Ronald and Karen Modreski Gordie and Jan Moeller Monsma Marketing Corporation Mr. and Mrs. Gene Morrison Ms. Dawn M. Mumford
Grand Rapids Community Foundation 185 Oakes Street SW Grand Rapids, MI 49503 If you would like to receive PARTNERS in community in your email inbox, sign up at www.givegr.org/PARTNERS or contact us at 616.454.1751
T HIS
& THAT CONGRATS, JASON! We extend a huge congratulations to Jason England on his recent promotion! Jason will serve in our newly-created development administrative assistant position. Jason’s deep understanding of Grand Rapids Community Foundation, his relationships with donor partners and his drive for development make him a perfect fit for this new position.
BOARD OF TRUSTEES TRANSITIONS Grand Rapids Community Foundation is pleased to announce the newest member of our Board of Trustees, Daniel Williams, president and CEO of West Michigan Center for Arts and Technology. “I have been so energized by Grand Rapids Community Foundation’s commitment to authentically engage with all of these communities to collectively revise and rethink what philanthropy can look like in West Michigan,” Daniel says. Before joining the WMCAT team, Daniel was the co-founder and principal of Grand Rapids University Prep Academy. Christina Keller, president and CEO of Cascade Engineering, is retiring from the Community Foundation Board of Trustees after serving for eight years. We are grateful for Christina’s incredible leadership and are fortunate that she will remain active by donating her time and talent in other ways.
WELCOME, SHEONA AND LITA! We are excited to introduce you to our new program administrative assistant, Sheona Nidefski. Sheona, a United States Air Force veteran, has spent the last 12 years at Mercy Health, most recently as administrative assistant in environmental services. Besides volunteering at many community events and activities, she has an associate’s degree in applied sciences from Muskegon Community College. Sheona has a passion for serving others and working with teams. She hopes to create a fun, caring and organized office environment. We also are eager to introduce Lita Trevino, our new receptionist. Lita comes to the Community Foundation with extensive experience from the Legal Assistance Center, Justice for our Neighbors and Grand Rapids Urban League. Along with a varied skill set, Lita brings a strong passion for the Community Foundation and its work in the community. Be sure to say hi when you stop by the front desk during your next visit to our building!
CONGRATS, DIANA! Diana Sieger was recently recognized as one of Grand Rapids Business Journal’s 50 Most Influential Women in West Michigan for 2020.
SUMMER CAMP Summer will be here sooner than you know it, and West Michigan has many day and overnight summer camp options for children. The camps offer different services, highlighting sports, arts, technology and academics. Through the Mary I. and David D. Hunting Family Fund, the Community Foundation supports a handful of well-known camps in West Michigan. Visit westmisummercamps.org for more information.