NAN RIEKSE wears her goal on her sleeve—literally. Donning a sweatshirt with the word “INSPIRE ” across the front, she embodies her goal to uplift others. In March 2004, she established her Donor Advised Fund to support causes she is passionate about while honoring her parents, Fred and Cleo.
Born and raised in FRUITPORT, Nan has dedicated her parents’ resources to education, literacy, and animal shelters. Nan supports her community, the Village of Fruitport, by supporting the Fruitport District Library and the Fruitport Education Foundation Fund. She also created a Scholarship Fund for local non-traditional students, focusing on adult women pursuing college degrees.
Nan’s love for learning began at an early age. She got her first library card at age 10 when the Fruitport District Library opened, and her passion for reading continues to grow. She was recently introduced to graphic novels through an activity at the library. Today, she serves on the Fruitport District Library’s board, helping to maintain the library as a valuable resource for her community.
Beyond education, Nan finds joy in beautifying her beloved Village of Fruitport. Nan supports the village’s beautification through her fund, including the flowerpots that line Third Avenue. They serve as a reminder of her parents for her. “Every time I see those flowers, I think of my parents, making me smile,” she says.
Nan is always eager to support new initiatives. She often checks our Community Wish Lists for opportunities to help area nonprofits. Recently, through her fund, she provided a grant to Read Muskegon, a nonprofit organization that offers free literacy programs and resources for Muskegon County residents. She has also supported Community Foundation initiatives such as the KickStart to Career’s child education savings accounts and the Welcome Home Scholarship, which assists educators who relocate to Muskegon County to teach in our public schools.
Nan’s story is a testament to the power of giving with purpose. Through her generosity, she continues to live up to the word on her sweatshirt—INSPIRE.