P.O. Box 1012-C Big Rapids, MI  49307 Ph: 231.796.3055 www.mccf.us

Message from the President

Wow, what a year! Call me an optimist, but I think last year was a pretty darn positive one. Don’t get me wrong, there is still plenty of need in our community…maybe more than ever. But the way this County comes together in times of need astounds me. Every time there is a worthy cause, people seem to step up and do what they can.   As far as being an optimist, just take a look at the Dow Jones Index for example. While 2008 was a disaster for everyone in the market (including The Mecosta County Community Foundation), 2009 bounced back for a 17% gain and let’s not forget it ended up nearly 4000 points from its low in March of around 6500.

While the market improvement obviously contributes to my optimism, there are other reasons to feel pretty good about what happened last year. Like The Jenine Stickler Memorial Fund that was originated to support the Wheatland Music Organization for awarding funding to youth with financial need for art tools and equipment. This is just one of the many fine funds represented by the Foundation.

In calendar year 2009 nearly $179,000 was granted during our two grant rounds. These grants go to help supplement area organizations with partial or inadequate funding. Once again we would ask for help in building our General Fund to allow us the opportunity to expand our reach within the needed organizations in our community.

2009 has brought about a few changes on the board, we are saying goodbye to friends who have given untold hours of service and great amounts of effort to the Foundation. First of all, Isabel Kempton resigned after many years of service including stints as President and most recently the very important position of Grant Committee Chair. She will be replaced by Rich Marino as a Director, and Scott Hill-Kennedy will take on the responsibilities of Grants Chair. We also say goodbye to Glen Pepper. Glen served on the Executive Committee as Treasurer for as long as I can remember. He was replaced in March by Nick Scheible. Both Isabel and Glen will be greatly missed by the board and especially by me. Their guidance, direction, and friendship has meant a great deal to me over the years…they exemplify what community service is all about.

Representing the Board of Directors has been a pleasure this year, and I look forward to completing my term as President at the end of an extremely successful 2010. Thank you for all you do to make our community a better place to live.

Gary Trimarco, President
Mecosta County Community Foudation

Click here for the 2009 Report to the Community

Fremont Area Community Foundation . P.O. Box B . Fremont, Michigan 49412 . Telephone 231.924.5350 . Fax 231.924.5391