“Anyone has the capacity to have a major impact,” said Dr. Nesbary. “Everywhere I’ve lived, I’ve never seen people with more capacity than here. Do the work. Don’t assume that a small community means you can’t do it. You have the capacity. Find the right people and focus on what you want to accomplish. Be the change you want to see.”

It's National Estate Planning Awareness Week - a perfect time to plan ahead for the future of your loved ones and community, just like Judy has.

Philanthropy can look like a lot of different things - the selfless giving of money, time, resources, talents, and more - but above all, philanthropy is love put into action. Chauncy Williams sets the standard high. 

“For one thing, giving to something that you believe in really is a good feeling,” said Marianne.  “Knowing that you’re a part of something can make a big difference. I don’t think people ever regret giving. You can know that you helped some special need somewhere, and I am thankful that my thinking turned to giving.”

“Pride is about getting together with the people you love and celebrating who you are and how all of our skills, talents, and passions work together,” said Michael. “Whether it be at home, the office, or your neighborhood association, celebrating the uniqueness of the individuals in your circle and uplifting them is how we come together as a community.”

The Community Foundation partnered with the Fremont Area Community Foundation and several other local foundations to bring Catchafire.org to 22 local nonprofits in our community. Here are a few success stories so far:

Originally from the small town of Hart, Anna Duggins has lived in Michigan her whole life. Anna works in estate planning and is a professional advisor to various community members. Whether you are welcoming a child, looking forward to retirement, facing the loss of a spouse, or coming to terms with a challenging diagnosis, Anna wants to be by your side.

Jessie Wilde is a mom of five who left the corporate world to create a consulting business that specializes in helping family-owned small businesses, nonprofits, and “mompreneurs” looking to start and sustain their business. This group program tackles the common issues faced by mothers learning to start, register, manage, and market their businesses. Read more about the Work Like a Mother program here!

Giving back has long been a priority for the McLeods. This philanthropic interest led them to start the McLeod Scholarship Fund in 2003, in memory of their son, Doug. After Carol’s passing in the spring of 2020, Dave established a Donor Advised Fund to continue to give back to the community. Join us in celebrating their many years of generosity!

The idea first came about when Antonette Robinson of the Crescent Neighborhood Association wanted to create a Civic Engagement Series, one that would bring neighbors together in a casual, social way to share ideas about current events and provide opportunities to learn more about policy and decision-making in local, state, and national governments and organizations. This is now an ongoing series and we are excited to keep you updated on their progress!