Metz Legacy Society
A Gift to The Community
In 1929, Grand Rapids Community Foundation received its first major bequest—from the estate of Mary Metz. Mary was the widow of George Metz and together they had built a successful tannery and real estate businesses.
To honor the importance of the Metz’ bequest, Grand Rapids Community Foundation created the Metz Legacy Society. The Society recognizes those donors who have included the Community Foundation in their will, estate plans or have created a life income gift to the Foundation.
Planned Gifts
Being Part of The Metz Legacy Society is Easy
To be part of the Metz Legacy Society—all you need to do is let us know about your intention to include the Community Foundation in your will or estate plans. By letting us know, we can better carry out your charitable intentions when that time comes, and we'll include you as an invitee to our annual Metz Legacy Society luncheon and other special events.
To commemorate your entry to the Metz Legacy Society, a tree will be planted in your honor in one of Grand Rapids City Parks through the Friends of Grand Rapids Parks. We also believe there is nothing more fitting than a tree to illustrate the enduring strength and beauty of your planned gift.
Derether Greer
Metz Legacy Society Member
Helping Others Reach Their Goals
As a part of her retirement and subsequent estate planning, Derether Greer created a scholarship at the Community Foundation for African American women. "In high school I knew I wouldn't be able to attend college because my parents didn't have the money. I found out about grants and student loans that helped pay for college, and I pursued my dream of becoming a teacher. I want others to be able to fulfill their dream, too." Her agreement with the Community Foundation specifies that applicants show that they've been active in multiple service projects.
Beth Dornan
Metz Legacy Society Member
A Woman with a Plan
"An estate plan helps you take are of what matters to your when you're no longer around to do that yourself. I included the Community Foundation in my plan because its grantmaking helps creating meaningful change in our community I'm proud to support that work today and in a small way through a planned gift, help it continue after I'm gone."
Honoring those who have passed
Members of the Metz Legacy Society leave a lasting mark on our community. See our tributes of those who have passed in the last year to learn about their philanthropy. Read tributes to Metz Members.