DuWayne and Jean Schuler

Sadly, Jean passed away in August shortly after we interviewed her and DuWayne for this story. She was a gracious, generous person, and she is deeply missed.

DuWayne and Jean Schuler have floated down the Amazon River, hunted roe deer at Balmoral, and visited former exchange students in Japan. But for all their travels, it’s their home on Ryerson Lake that the Schulers describe as their piece of heaven on Earth.

After decades in Kent County—where Jean was a teacher and DuWayne owned a wine shop—the Schulers were introduced to Ryerson Lake by friends who invited them to visit. “We thought it was terrific and kept coming back,” said DuWayne. They eventually began renting a cottage and then bought property of their own. They have now lived here full-time for more than 20 years.

This community, said DuWayne, “has a certain Currier and Ives feel to it.” The Schulers enjoy the rural setting with impressive amenities like Tamarac, the Dogwood Center, and a great library. They also like that local people are quick to give back.

“We’re thankful that so many people have put their resources back into the town,” said Jean. “You can see the difference it makes.”

DuWayne and Jean share the same commitment. DuWayne has served on the library board and volunteered with the Friends of the Library, an organization Jean led for years. Jean has also enjoyed volunteering at Camp Newaygo and being part of the Fremont Garden Club and Quilter’s Guild. When friends introduced them to the Community Foundation, it felt like another natural fit. They decided to create the Jean Schuler Education Fund here in honor of Jean’s career as an educator.

“I wanted something that would reflect what Jean had been involved in,” said DuWayne. “She was an extraordinary teacher and had a profound influence on many young lives.”

Huntey’s Clubhouse

Tyler Huntey’s mother, Christine Huntey, provided in-home daycare from the time Tyler was in preschool. She built her first Huntey’s Clubhouse childcare center in 2008.

Tyler went on to earn a business management degree from Central Michigan University and lived and worked in Detroit after college. When he came back to West Michigan, he got involved with the family business and is now its co-CEO.

“When I moved back from Detroit, we just had the Big Rapids and Morley childcare centers,” he said. Today, there are Huntey’s Clubhouses in seven communities, including Newaygo and Hesperia. They employ nearly 200 staff and care for more than 750 children.

“We’re providing a Grand Rapids level of childcare here in our rural area,” said Tyler.

Huntey’s Clubhouses are bright and inviting, with outside play areas and walls decorated with children’s artwork. They care for children from six weeks to 12 years old and offer preschool and pre-K through Michigan’s Great Start Readiness Program.

As Huntey’s Clubhouse expanded into Newaygo County, they moved into a building in Hesperia near downtown and next to Hesperia Community Schools. However, the interior needed some work. Using a program-related investment from the Community Foundation, Huntey’s Clubhouse was able to more quickly make the updates needed to open their new center. Funds helped with new paint, flooring, storage, appliances, updated security, and more.

Recently, Hesperia’s Huntey’s Clubhouse achieved the highest quality rating a licensed childcare
provider can receive from the State of Michigan.

“It’s a lot of responsibility when you make a commitment to a community,” said Tyler. “We’re incredibly proud of this accomplishment and want to thank the Community Foundation for its support, which played a key role in helping our program reach this outstanding level of quality.”

Fremont Middle School

In Fremont Middle School’s life skills class, seventh graders learn about budgeting, basic sewing, and etiquette for weddings and funerals. “But cooking is the favorite,” said teacher Heidi Bonnema. “They take pride in what they make. I have a lot of photos of kids holding their perfect pancakes.”

One of Heidi’s goals is to help students become a little less dependent on adults. In class, they cook in small groups, with everyone assigned a role. They celebrate successes and failures, because everything is an opportunity to learn and problem-solve.

“Kids who struggle with traditional seatwork absolutely thrive in here,” said Heidi. “It’s hands-on and they work as a team. It’s fun to watch kids come to life and enjoy themselves at school.”

While donations help the school navigate rising food costs, the classroom itself needed a major refresh. “I had parents and grandparents of students say they remembered this room looking exactly the same when they attended school here,” said Heidi.

Hard work and collaborations—including a grant from the Community Foundation—gave the class a boost to start the 2024-2025 school year. Students were welcomed into a renovated space with bright, modern kitchens.

“The kids take a lot of ownership; they make sure the room is kept clean,” said Heidi. “This is my eleventh year at Fremont, and it has really put energy into my teaching to have this new space.”

Judy Chesley

Owning a business began as a practical matter for Judy Chesley and her late husband, Dick Chesley. They were expecting their first child when they opened their store, figuring they could keep the baby right there with them during the day. Dick, Judy, and later their son, ran Hilltop Shopping Center near Hardy Dam for almost 50 years.

“I loved watching it grow and seeing the customers come back year after year,” said Judy. “People feel you’re their friend when you have a mom-and-pop store. You get to know them.”

Over the years, Judy made thousands of the huge cinnamon rolls Hilltop was known for. She also helped introduce many young adults to the workforce. “We had so many nice young people who worked for us,” she said. “I taught them how to make change and interact with customers.”

Today, Judy and her family are still helping students prepare for jobs, just in a different way. Judy created the Chesley Family Scholarship for Grant and Newaygo graduates planning to study entrepreneurship or small business. It was awarded for the first time in 2024.

“School is so expensive and you need all the help you can get,” said Judy. “I’m just one of hundreds who have created scholarships, but I hope that kids who receive it feel proud that someone believes in them.”

Woodland Park

During the era of Jim Crow segregation, Woodland Park was a haven for Black vacationers and travelers. In the summer, every cottage, resort rental, and room at the Kelsonia Inn and other hotels was booked.

As new opportunities opened for Black travelers in the mid-1960s, Woodland Park and nearby Idlewild saw a steady decline in traffic. Landmarks like the Royal Breeze Hotel exist now only in memory. However, a local group is dedicated to reviving and sharing those memories.

“We were inspired by a desire to preserve the work done by the founders of this historically Black resort community,” wrote members of the community group. “We feared our history would be lost.”

The committee works with partners like The Right Place and MSU Extension, and in 2024, the Community Foundation awarded a grant for historic signage.

“We felt many driving nearby wouldn’t even know they were in Woodland Park or why it was so special,” said Julie Burrell of The Right Place. “We wanted to change that in a visible way, and a collection of interpretive signs was the answer.” It’s a big step in a plan to preserve and celebrate the significance of this treasured area.

“We look forward to visitors learning more about Woodland Park,” wrote members of the committee. “Woodland Park is not only a local treasure, it is a national treasure.”

Pictured: Patricia Plaut-Payne, Venola Walton-Stanciel, Harvey Sanders, Debbie Jones, and Julie Burrell. The committee also includes Ziyadah Shakir, Carol Vandyke, Stephen Jones Jr., Leslie Woods, and David Woods.

Isaac Frisbie

As a student at Newaygo High School, Isaac Frisbie was a member of our Youth Advisory Committee (YAC). “YAC provided the opportunity for youth in the community to help others and make an impact,” said Isaac. “I liked meeting students from other schools and the community service we did.”

After graduation, Isaac received a scholarship from the Community Foundation and attended Northern Michigan University. “I wanted to do something in the trades, but I wasn’t sure what that could be,” said Isaac. He talked to another student who was planning to be a shop teacher and it sparked a new idea.

Isaac is now an industrial arts teacher at Reed City High School, where he works with eighth through 12th graders. He enjoys watching students develop their skills, progressing from learning about tools and safety basics to planning and executing their own projects.

He has also found a way to build on his philanthropy experience as an advisor for Osceola County Community Foundation’s YAC.

“It has been cool to help students realize the value in service and giving back,” said Isaac. “I hope they take away that you don’t have to have money to give. Find an organization you’re passionate about and volunteer. You always have an opportunity to help.”

Charles Chandler and Dianne Taylor

Charles Chandler and Dianne Taylor traded corporate airline jobs and the hustle of the Dallas-Fort Worth area for the rural living and outdoor adventures of White Cloud.

“Fly fishing brought us here,” said Dianne. “We had already been coming here to fish, so we decided we wanted to retire up here.”

Dianne and Charles quickly immersed themselves in the community. Their interest in fly fishing led to kayaking, hiking, and a love of the North Country Trail. “We got involved early on when we came here and through that we developed a community of friends,” said Charles.

As they got involved in different local projects, Charles shared, “everywhere I turned, I saw these little signs: ‘donated by Fremont Area Community Foundation.’” Charles learned more about the Community Foundation, joined our community development committee, and now serves on our Board of Trustees.

He and Dianne also decided to create a fund here centered on natural resources and the environment.

“I don’t think there’s a better place to put our money,” said Charles. “The Community Foundation is a place that allows us to be our better selves. We know that when we’re not here, the Community Foundation will still be here and continuing to grow. This is a legacy investment we’re making.”

Hope 101

Hope 101 was created to help people achieve stable housing. It’s still the heart of their mission. Unfortunately, food insecurity often goes hand-in-hand with housing insecurity.

“A lot of our participants use food pantries,” said Julie Vitale, executive director. “But it can be hard to get protein there, or the protein that is offered may be disconnected from the other items they receive.”

As Hope 101 thought about ways to help, they realized that many churches have commercial kitchens that often go unused during the week. This inspired the creation of The Cookery, which was supported by a Community Foundation grant in 2024.

Team members—often Hope 101 housing participants—prepare hearty entrees and soups in licensed church kitchens. Frozen meals are available on a “pay what you can” basis and stocked at partner sites. The program also provides job experience and income for those on the cooking team. A newly-renovated building in downtown White Cloud will expand their reach and allow for serving hot meals.

“Homelessness and hunger don’t just happen to someone else. It could be you, it could be your child,” said Julie. “One of the most rewarding moments was when a participant said, ‘Thank you for seeing me when I couldn’t see myself.’ These are people who work hard and have dreams, but life has been unkind. They need someone to see them.”

Price Family

While Orville and Wanda Price didn’t push their three children toward specific careers, they did communicate the value of skilled trades. “They told us that skilled trades had been really good paths for them,” said their son Dan Price. “Even if we didn’t pursue it as a career, it would give us good experience to fall back on.”

Beyond their own family, Orville and Wanda worked hard to bring training opportunities to all local students. They were both active in the creation of the Newaygo County Career-Tech Center. Orville, a diesel mechanic, took a leave of absence from his job to help set up the automotive program. Wanda set up and taught the culinary program.

After Orville passed away in 2024, the family created two funds at the Community Foundation to support the Career-Tech Center—one in Orville’s name and one in Wanda’s. “I had a good mom and dad,” said Dan. “Their motto was you might not have a lot of money, but there are still a lot of things you can do. Whatever level you’re at, you can help somebody.”

“Giving through the Community Foundation is one of the ways a person can come from limited means and make a big difference,” Dan continued. “We’re tickled to death to be a small part, because we know that big things start small.”

Pictured: Mat Emerick, Kathy Price, Dan Price, Andrea Price, and Terry Price

Buzz and Shelly Kasprzycki

Shelly Kasprzycki was introduced to community foundations early in life. She received a scholarship from a community foundation and wrote her first grant at age 22. She spent time in the nonprofit sector and became president and CEO of Jackson Community Foundation in 2002. In 2021, Shelly was selected as the next president and CEO of Fremont Area Community Foundation.

However, coming here from the Jackson area was more than just the next step in a successful career for Shelly and her husband Buzz. “I feel like we’re home,” said Shelly. “It’s such a wonderful community. This has been the best experience of my life professionally, and it has been very good for us personally. We’re trying to get all our kids to move here.”

Shelly began her career in public health and went on to lead several nonprofit organizations. She and Buzz met when they were both working for the Red Cross. Buzz also worked in manufacturing for many years and retired from an aerospace company. When the opportunity here at the Community Foundation appeared, the Kasprzyckis were drawn to the rural community with modern amenities like beautiful libraries and a good hospital system.

“I love it here,” said Buzz. “I can’t say enough about this area. Everyone waves and says hi. Living here has taught me to be kinder and more generous.”

In appreciation for the warm welcome they received, Buzz and Shelly created an unrestricted fund at the Community Foundation.

“I like the idea of leaving something for those who come after us,” said Buzz.

“We give through the Community Foundation because of its knowledge, because of the wonderful staff who knows the community, and because of the excellent reputation,” added Shelly. “We give here because we want to be part of this community for generations to come.”

FISH and Great Start Baby Pantry

“It started with a wish,” said Christina Yuhasz, standing in the office space of the Family Information Service Hub (FISH) and Great Start Baby Pantry. “Who would have thought that it would become this?”

FISH grew out of a concern for families whose children weren’t arriving at school kindergarten ready. The truth is it can be hard to prepare kids for kindergarten when you have to focus your energy on how you’ll find housing or tomorrow’s meals.

“Families didn’t know what services existed or how to find help meeting basic needs,” said Christina, a Great Start parent liaison through NC RESA. “There’s such a stigma around needing assistance, and there shouldn’t be. So many families are just one paycheck away from disaster.”

Now FISH sets up in different locations throughout the county to meet with families and help them find resources and apply for assistance. Christina and her colleagues Victoria and Sarah know who to call and how to fill out applications. “We’ve gotten to know local organizations and what they offer,” said Christina. “We can make those connections.”

FISH’s Fremont location, housed in the Fremont Rec Center, is also home to the Baby Pantry. Parents can visit by appointment to pick up diapers, formula, clothes, and other items. They also offer Spanish-speaking service, safe sleep education, medication lock boxes, and more.

The Baby Pantry and FISH serve more than 1,000 Newaygo County families annually. Their work is supported by an array of partners providing grants—like one last fall from the Community Foundation—along with in-kind support and donations. Donation bins at the Baby Pantry are regularly filled with new and gently used items. Some of the items come from past clients, eager to give back.

“Families are so excited to donate back clothes and help someone else,” said Christina. “It’s so rewarding to see. Watching the whole community come around this makes you really grateful.”

Jason Houghtaling Memorial Fund

Grants from the Jason Houghtaling Memorial Fund are helping to support a new outpatient pediatric cancer clinic. The James Fahner, M.D. Outpatient Clinic at the Ethie Haworth Children’s Cancer Center opened in spring 2025 in Grand Rapids and is part of Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital.

The new, world-class facility will serve 1,300 children each month with crucial services such as chemotherapy and infusion, diagnostic testing, follow-up appointments, and supportive care. The clinic is named for Dr. James Fahner, a leader in child and family health for more than 33 years. Fahner is considered the founding father of the pediatric hematology and oncology program at Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital.

“We are proud to partner with the Houghtaling family on this gift to the James Fahner, M.D. Outpatient Clinic,” said Shelly Kasprzycki, our president and CEO. “This new clinic will provide crucial care for West Michigan children in the spirit of excellence that has always characterized Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital.”

The grant is inspired by the memory of Jason Houghtaling, a Fremont teen diagnosed with osteosarcoma in the early 1980s. Before Jason passed away, his father, Paul Houghtaling, promised to dedicate the rest of his own life to fighting childhood cancer. Along with friends and neighbors like David Johnson, Paul created a fund in Jason’s name to support cancer research and assist families impacted by life-threatening childhood diseases. For years, money for the cause was raised during annual Strokes Against Cancer golf tournaments and fundraisers.

The Houghtaling family has remained committed to advancing research and helping others. This work introduced them to Dr. Fahner in 1988, when Jason’s fund supported Dr. Fahner’s fellowship. Paul and his wife, Carol Houghtaling, have stayed in touch with Dr. Fahner in the years since.

“We are so grateful for Paul and Carol’s generous gift to the James Fahner, M.D. Outpatient Clinic at the Ethie Haworth Children’s Cancer Center at Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital,” said Kristin Long, lead foundation specialist, major gifts and planned giving, at Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital Foundation. “Their philanthropy, through the Jason Houghtaling Memorial Fund, will support and elevate lifesaving pediatric cancer care for our patients through expansion of the new clinic space. The Houghtalings’ passion and kindness will help to ensure every child and family receives the most compassionate, patient-centered care, and when they need it the most.”

The Jason Houghtaling Memorial Fund and the Strokes Against Cancer fundraisers that preceded it have granted thousands of dollars since 1984, including multiple research grants to the University of Michigan, Duke University, and Mayo Clinic. Support was also awarded to the pediatric department of Gerber Memorial Hospital, and a 2013 grant funded research equipment at Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital.

Photo courtesy of Corewell Health Foundation West Michigan

Harry and Laura Johnson

Harry and Laura Johnson have made their home in northern Newaygo County since the early 1970s. In addition to their involvement in service organizations like the Lions Club, the Johnsons are passionate about Big Jackson Public Schools. The distinctly rural school district serves kindergarten through sixth grade students in the northeastern part of Newaygo County. The Johnsons’ three sons attended there, and now their grandson does. They are regular volunteers and Laura has served on the school board for more than 20 years.

“The school community is a little family, not just a school,” said Laura. “There’s a support network here.”

The small size of the school means everyone knows each other and people pitch in to help. “We support each other in times of need,” said Laura. “That’s the kind of community we have.”

Harry and Laura have also supported the school by giving to the Big Jackson Public Schools Fund at the Community Foundation. It’s a way to help now and in the future, and it speaks to their love of the school and what it means to the area.

“We don’t have an abundance, but our bills are paid and I think it’s important to share what you have,” said Laura. “Big Jackson has an endowment fund, and we wanted to give to it to support the school. It’s not a lot, but it’s just our little way to support it.”

Newaygo County Autism Community

Drowning is a leading cause of accidental death for children, and children with autism are at an even greater risk—160 times greater, according to a 2017 Columbia University study. This sobering reality was top of mind when the Newaygo County Autism Community developed their Safe Swim Academy.

“When we started the Newaygo County Autism Community group, we thought about what was important,” said Kathe Scott, a founder of the group. “With so many bodies of water in Newaygo County, we believed it would be irresponsible not to offer a program like this.”

The program—funded by a grant from our Amazing X Charitable Trust—provided swimming and water safety instruction for local people living with autism. Beginning with an individual assessment, instructor Dana Simon developed a course for each student based on factors like their experience, abilities, and overall comfort in the water.

With Dana, “we struck gold,” said Kathe. Dana has taught swimming since she was a teenager and holds multiple swimming and water safety certifications. She is also a certified special education teacher. “Where else can you find a special education teacher with these qualifications?” added Kathe.

“Having that experience has been very helpful,” said Dana. “You have to meet them where they are and take small steps.”

Lessons also included sharing tips and skills with parents and guardians. Dana is passionate about teaching layers of protection, from proper supervision and installing self-latching gates around pools to choosing brightly colored swimsuits that are easy to spot in the water.

While all students began and ended classes this summer at their own unique levels, their growth was something to celebrate for Dana and Kathe.

“It has been exciting to see the growth from day one to now,” said Dana. “It’s rewarding to see that progress and how the small steps add up.”

The Beattie Family

Cameron Beattie was social, athletic, and loved to sing in the car. He relished time spent with his older brother and cousins. “He wasn’t a kid who had a small circle,” Cameron’s mom, Kirsten Beattie, shared with a smile.

When Cameron passed away in 2015, so many people attended the Fremont sophomore’s memorial that the service had to be held in the high school gym. In the years since, his legacy has continued through the efforts and generosity of family and friends. Each year, the Beatties host a cornhole tournament with proceeds going to projects or organizations that Cameron was involved in or would have loved.

The family also created a scholarship at the Community Foundation in Cameron’s memory. “It’s for students who may have a little lower GPA, like Cameron, and it includes his sports background,” said Kirsten. “We want those students to know they can be successful.”

It is a fitting tribute to a teenager who once gave away his new tennis shoes because he felt someone else needed them more.

“He told me his old shoes still fit,” remembered Kirsten. “My son was a giver. He knew a single mom down the street worked third shift, so he would play outside with her kids so she could sleep.”

Though Cameron’s life was tragically cut short, reminders of this generous, fun-loving young man are everywhere. The nephew he never got to meet “is so like him,” said Kirsten. His name is prominently displayed at Fremont’s baseball field and, each year, another student continues their education with help from Cameron’s scholarship.

“It was the best way we could think of to keep his memory alive,” said Kirsten. “People tell me, ‘I didn’t know him, but I see his name everywhere.’ It’s very rewarding.”

Jenine Stickler Memorial Fund

This story comes from the newsletter of our affiliate, Mecosta County Community Foundation. While MCCF holds the Jenine Stickler Memorial Fund, the fund also benefits young people in Newaygo, Osceola, Lake, and Montcalm counties.

For more than 50 years, Wheatland Music Festival has been a celebration of the music and art that is passed from person to person and from one generation to the next. The organization’s Jenine Stickler Memorial Fund at Mecosta County Community Foundation continues that celebration and legacy.

Jenine Stickler served on Wheatland’s arts and crafts committee and was a vocalist, pianist, and community leader. “There was always music in her home,” said Pamela Burke, a Wheatland Music Organization volunteer. “She was full of life and giggles. She was a ‘reacher-outer.’ She might stop and visit five people on her way home from work to check on them.”

After Jenine passed away, friends and family created a fund in her memory to help local students develop their artistic abilities. Through the fund, youth with financial need from Mecosta, Newaygo, Osceola, Lake, and Montcalm counties can apply for help obtaining art tools and equipment like instruments, dance shoes, art kits, and more. Teachers and nonprofit instructors can also apply for funding for a group of instruments or art supplies that students can use and take home.

“We established the fund at the Community Foundation because we wanted to have a fund that’s invested and earning interest,” said Pamela. “That makes it permanent, and permanency is the key. The fund will always be there, growing and helping people.”

As the fund helps young people buy instruments, pottery supplies, dance shoes, and more, it introduces new generations to art forms that have been carefully preserved over many years. It also celebrates the vibrant life of a woman who valued creativity and community.

“Jenine was very much a gift-giver,” said Pamela. “This is her still giving. She was full of joy, and filling others with joy would make her so happy.”

For more information on applying for funds from the Jenine Stickler Memorial Fund, visit Wheatland’s website at wheatlandmusic.org or email scholarship@wheatlandmusic.org.

Erich Heger, Teresa Heger, and Steve Vissia

The Heger Vissia Soccer Coaches Scholarship Fund celebrates a historic season and a valued partnership of more than 20 years.

After Erich and Teresa Heger moved to Fremont in the early 2000s, a coworker introduced Erich to the high school’s soccer coach Steve Vissia. Erich became the assistant coach and has worked with the varsity programs ever since.

“Steve opened that door for me, and it’s been a life changer,” said Erich.

“It’s been lifechanging for both of us and for so many kids,” added Steve. “Erich has touched so many lives.”

The boys’ varsity team celebrated its most successful season on record in 2023. It felt like the right time to reveal Erich’s idea for a scholarship. “That was a special group and a special season,” he said. “It was the perfect year to create the scholarship fund.”

The scholarship will be awarded annually to members of the boys and girls varsity teams. The Hegers know first-hand how impactful scholarships can be. Their daughters received scholarships from the Community Foundation and other organizations. “After having received like that, we want to give back,” Erich said.

“We have a lot of gratitude,” said Teresa. “We also wanted to recognize Steve for his leadership and community involvement. Erich and Steve give to the community together, and this scholarship is a great way to honor that.”

Bellwether Harbor Animal Shelter

Bellwether Harbor Animal Shelter created the Seniors for Seniors Foster Cat Program as a way to address two problems: too many older cats lingered in shelters waiting for homes, and many older adults were missing out on the companionship of a pet because of concerns that kept them from adopting.

Through this innovative program, older adults are matched with a cat to foster. Costs like food, veterinary care, and other necessities are covered. Bellwether staffers Linda Vaughn and Joy Goodall visit once a month for checkups and are on-call for concerns between visits. Cat parents also know that if they can’t care for their pet—during a hospital stay, for example—their cat will be provided for and kept safe at Bellwether.

“The program has really taken off,” said Linda. “It’s rewarding to see cats in homes and flourishing.”

Seniors for Seniors—which is supported by grants from the Bridging Generations Fund—also makes an impact on human participants. “Having a cat brings our older adults so much joy and gives them a sense of purpose,” said Joy. “Some tell us they have a reason to get out of bed every morning now.”

“We love to see how well the seniors and cats are doing together,” added Linda. “It makes us really happy to know we are making a difference in their lives.”

The Deur Family

Lou and Bev Deur served in their church and on local boards, welcomed visitors, and made giving a top priority throughout their lives. Their outlook made a lasting impression on their children Jonell Pettinga, Eric Deur, Christopher Deur, and Garth Deur. “I’ve been a serial volunteer,” Garth remarked with a smile. “My siblings too.”

That drive to give and lend a hand is part of a legacy passed down from Eugene Deur, Lou’s father and Garth’s grandfather. Eugene founded Deur Chevrolet and actively served his community. “Grandpa was always very involved in the community,” said Garth. “I don’t think Dad ever realized it was an option not to be.”

After Bev passed away in 2018 and Lou in 2022, Garth went through three years of Lou’s check registers, making a long list of every charity he had supported. The family partnered with the Community Foundation to direct estate gifts to the organizations on the list and create two new endowment funds. “Dad always respected the people who worked at the Community Foundation,” said Garth. “He thought charity should be done well and professionally.”

Their gifts and the funds they created will help ensure that Lou and Bev continue to be a force for good in their home community for generations to come.

“They had huge, big hearts,” said Garth. “I’m super proud of them.”

Heritage Museum of Newaygo County

If you haven’t been to the museum in downtown Newaygo in a few years, then you haven’t been to the museum. After a dramatic renovation and rebranding, the Heritage Museum of Newaygo County is spacious, bright, and a perfect combination of new and historic. It features engaging exhibits, multi-functional meeting spaces, a gift shop showcasing local art, and more.

“We want to be a center for the community,” said Steven Radtke, executive director. “We’re proud of creating a space everyone can engage in and where everyone can come to learn.”

The museum highlights some of the most significant events, features, and industries in Newaygo County’s history. Adults and students are also welcomed regularly for classes, lectures, and educational programs. A 2023 grant from the Community Foundation helped fund more interactive displays.

“There’s a perception that history has no relevance to today or that museums are old and uninteresting,” said Steven. “We’re working to combat that. We’re breaking apart the idea of a dusty, old museum.”

Steven brought a lifelong love of history to his position in 2018, along with extensive experience in exhibit design. “When this job came up, it was right up my alley,” he said. “It’s been rewarding to work with the community, be part of the community, and make something that the community can be proud of.”

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