Because this is home
May 5, 2025Buzz 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.”
