Community Stories

For the Good of the Community

When the wrecking ball was ready to swing at the boarded-up Michigan Theater, a substantial bequest from A. Harold Frauenthal allowed us to purchase the entire block. After renovations, the Frauenthal Center for the Performing Arts emerged.

Through His Philanthropy

Charles Hackley influenced the city of Muskegon and helped shape the character of our community with his generous gifts of a hospital, art museum, school, library and park.

Modest Living for a Permanent Legacy

A lifelong resident of Muskegon County, Edith Anderson left her entire estate to the Community Foundation for Muskegon County to create a fund to support Hospice of Muskegon-Oceana.

Investing in the Future

After receiving the Moses J. Jones Scholarship and graduating with honors, Jamall Johnson wanted to help other young African Americans who were pursuing a college education at his beloved Grambling State.

Caring for Their Community

In nearly 48 years of marriage, Dick and Betty Cawein had 28 different addresses but they found their way back to the place they really loved – their hometown of Muskegon.

Read Early. Read Often.

Edward and Daisy Krautheim had a special concern for children. The fund created by their trust, along with other funds designated for youth, has supported many projects, including a playground, summer youth programs and Read Early. Read Often.

Sharing from the Heart

“My mom was a very giving lady," said Anne Drake. “She loved to share what she had and share her time with others…we are delighted to be able to share her legacy.”

Working Together

What do White Lake Township, the Land Conservancy of West Michigan, six foundations, the Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund, and hundreds of community members have in common? A passion to preserve the White River Barrier Dunes Sanctuary.

Investing in Wellness

Healthy kids learn better, but in the rural school district of Oakridge, access to health services was limited. So community organizations, generous individuals and our Youth Advisory Council (YAC) all came together to create a school-based health clinic.

The Perfect Birthday Gift

As her father's 80th birthday approached, Shirley Bloomfield wondered, "What can I get a man who has everything he needs?" To celebrate her father's love of the community, she created a Donor Advised Fund for her parents, David and Barbara Bloomfield.