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Rooted in Muskegon. Generational Community Impact.

Donor Stories

Even from hundreds of miles away, Jim Veurink’s family legacy remains rooted in Muskegon County. The values he learned here — hard work, generosity, and caring for others — were shaped by generations of family serving the community. Today, those values live on through the Kenneth & Eleanor Veurink Family Fund,  a Donor Advised Fund created to honor his parents and continue his family’s legacy of service.

Jim’s family history in Muskegon stretches back decades. In the 1940s, his grandparents owned Bill’s Modern Cabins before the property was cleared for the expansion of the Muskegon County Airport. They later built the iconic Seaway Motel, which became part of the community’s fabric. Jim’s parents continued that tradition of everyday service — his father delivering milk to local families and his mother helping students and families at Marquette Elementary School.

For Jim Veurink, “Philanthropy is a meaningful way to honor my family’s legacy of generosity and reflect the values that guided them for generations.” Now living in Tucson, Jim and his husband, Gordon, use their Donor Advised Fund to support literacy, community beautification, and efforts that strengthen people and neighborhoods.

Grants from the fund have supported organizations such as Coalition for Community Development and READ Muskegon, providing flexible resources where they are needed most. The fund has also fulfilled Community Wish List requests, including the planting of five apple trees on the campus of Muskegon Christian School.

Jim’s story is a reminder that philanthropy is not only about giving back — it is about carrying forward the people and values that have shaped our lives. Through his family fund, the Veurink legacy will continue growing in Muskegon for generations to come.

A Donor Advised Fund helps you make the most of your charitable giving—on your timeline and according to your values:

  • Simplify your charitable giving while maximizing your impact
  • Support multiple causes with personalized local expertise
  • Create a lasting legacy that benefits the community for generations

We’re here to help you achieve more with your philanthropy. Your values. Your community. Your legacy. To learn more, contact our development team at 231.722.4538 or development@muskegonfoundation.org.

Giving Made Simple. Impact Made Lasting.