Stories

  • Posted on May 29, 2014 – Posted by: Roberta King

    One Hundred New Philanthropists: Monica Sparks

    Monica Sparks is passionate about helping women in business and education. “Women have always pumped the unheard heartbeat of the world. We carry the heartache for many, find a way to foster dreams that are…

  • Posted on May 29, 2014 – Posted by: Roberta King

    One Hundred New Philanthropists: Wendy and Mark Anderson

    Well-rounded might best describe Wendy and Mark Anderson’s philanthropy. They care about a wide range of causes, and both mention Grand Rapids Community Foundation first when talking about giving. Where do you give? “Grand Rapids…

  • Posted on March 18, 2013 – Posted by: Roberta King

    One Hundred New Philanthropists: Corey Balkon

    A happy childhood and supportive parents who provided a healthy home life, education and encouragement make CPA Corey Balkon grateful for his upbringing and concerned for kids who have less. “I have always had a…

  • Posted on March 18, 2013 – Posted by: Roberta King

    One Hundred New Philanthropists: Renwick Brutus

    Educational development, economic empowerment and entrepreneurship are causes leadership consultant and motivational speaker Renwick Brutus cares most about. “I support nonprofits that help people become educated, have confidence in their ability to contribute, participate in…

  • Posted on March 09, 2010 – Posted by: Roberta King

    Donnor Advisors: Arvin and Pearl Tap

    Wanting to be good stewards of the many gifts bestowed upon them, Arvin and Pearl Tap established a private family foundation. For many years, the couple received great pleasure in supporting specific faith-based organizations. Through…

  • Posted on February 04, 2010 – Posted by: Roberta King

    Donor Advisors: Herb and Glenna Knape

    In 1950, newlyweds Herb and Glenna Knape built a small house on Fisk Lake with one bedroom and a nursery. By 1960, both the house and the family had grown… the house to five bedrooms,…

  • Posted on January 01, 2008 – Posted by: Roberta King

    Donor Advisors: Bill and Norma Sprague

    Both Ohio natives, Bill and Norma Sprague were students when they met at Ohio University in Athens. “We met in a bacteriology class,” said Norma. “It was our junior year.” She was a smart and…

  • Posted on January 01, 2008 – Posted by: Roberta King

    Scholarship Donor: Derether Greer

    Derether Greer was the first person in her family to earn a college degree. After graduating in 1968 from Grand Rapids South High School, she went on to Western Michigan University and received her…

  • Posted on January 01, 2008 – Posted by: Roberta King

    Planned Gift: Harvey Lemmen

    Truth be told, luck really has nothing to do with Harvey Lemmen and his success. He is a member of the greatest generation and he epitomizes many of the qualities that have made his generation…