Insights

Posted on November 20, 2018 – Posted by:

Why I Give: A Conversation with Jenine Torres

For nearly a century, Grand Rapids Community Foundation has been in the business of understanding our community’s needs. Sometimes, as a development officer, I wonder how our founders could even comprehend the impact this organization [...]
Posted on November 16, 2018 – Posted by:

California Wildfires 2018: How You Can Help

The 2018 wildfire season has devastated communities throughout California due to high temperatures and dry conditions. The Camp Fire in Butte County is the deadliest and most destructive in California history with a death toll in [...]
Posted on November 09, 2018 – Posted by:

2018 Jack Chaille Community Philanthropy Award Recipients: Carol Sarosik and Shelley Padnos

At the 2018 Grand Rapids Community Foundation Donor Celebration, Carol Sarosik and Shelley Padnos were awarded with the 2018 Jack Chaille Community Philanthropy Award. Carol and Shelley are transformational leaders. Learn more about this power couple and the [...]
Posted on May 29, 2018 – Posted by:

Organizing Your Legacy

Organizing your estate plan is an act of love for your family and your community. We know that the task can seem daunting when you begin to consider how many details there are to track [...]
Posted on May 21, 2018 – Posted by:

Simple and Inexpensive Ways to Do Good Through Planned Giving

The most common way to leave a gift at the end of your life is through a simple bequest in your will. But if the idea of a gift from your will conjures up visions [...]
Posted on January 26, 2018 – Posted by: Ashley Lee

Remembering John Canepa

We are saddened by the recent passing of John Canepa. He was a dear friend to many in our community, and is especially loved by Grand Rapids Community Foundation. Grand Rapids and West Michigan’s growth is [...]
Posted on January 19, 2018 – Posted by:

Foster Grandparents: Older Adults and Students Help Each Other Succeed

“At the end of the day it’s not about what you have or even what you’ve accomplished. It’s about who you’ve lifted up, who you’ve made better. It’s about what you’ve given back.” – Denzel [...]
Posted on January 02, 2018 – Posted by: Ashley Lee

Our Community Hopes for 2018

As we enter a new year, we enjoy the opportunity to reflect on where we’ve been, where we’re going, and how we can bring light and love to the world around us. The year of 201 [...]
Posted on December 13, 2017 – Posted by: Ashley Lee

Is 2017 the Year to Give Appreciated Assets?

The uncertainty surrounding potential changes to tax law, particularly as it relates to charitable giving, has our attention. As we move closer to a decision, we feel it is important to share how the possible [...]
Posted on November 28, 2017 – Posted by: Ashley Lee

Will You Be a Changemaker This #GivingTuesday?

In the upcoming weeks, we all have presents to buy, food to prepare, and decorations to hang, but before we get to far into the holiday frenzy, today we’re inviting you to participate in making [...]
Posted on November 10, 2017 – Posted by: Ashley Lee

Addressing LGBT Youth Homelessness: An Update from Our LGBT Fund

When we think about human rights issues, it’s easy to start with abuses around the world – it can be more challenging to open our eyes to problems right here in West Michigan. Each night, more [...]
Posted on July 20, 2017 – Posted by: Roberta King

Helping Make Grand Rapids Good with Local First

Grand Rapids Community Foundation’s Board of Trustees recently approved a grant of $250,000 to Local First Educational Foundation for its “Good for Grand Rapids” campaign. The goal of the grant is to increase the number [...]