2015 Annual Report

A year in review

Edward and Frances Frey established their foundation in 1974 out of a deep love of community and their commitment to philanthropy. More than forty years later, the foundation is still firmly rooted in West Michigan and faithfully governed by a nine member board of Frey family trustees committed to a legacy of lasting impact.

With the release of its 2015 annual report, the Frey Foundation celebrates more than $131 million invested in West and Northern Michigan communities supporting innovative projects and programs to enhance child development, protect natural resources, promote the arts, and build community. We invite you to explore the stories in our 2015 annual report highlighting some of our recent partners and the communities they serve.

David’s Letter

“This special place nurtures greatness.”

The energy and spirit that is so contagious in West Michigan is attracting bright, talented, young next gen who are eager to be part of the vitality and sense of self-confidence that is evident in the markets we serve. They share our pride of place. Their creative and sometimes non-traditional ideas are welcomed and embraced, changing the conversation by offering eye-popping solutions to some of our most pressing challenges and our unfulfilled opportunities.

Just look around and you’ll see plenty of tangible signs of confidence in the economic, educational, medical, cultural and entertainment future of this amazing place. The scale of philanthropic resources relative to the demographics is one of the distinguishing characteristics that allow us to achieve remarkable outcomes. A significant number of…

Steve’s Letter

“Equity and inclusion must be fundamental principles of our work.”

If you’ve traversed a bike trail in the Petoskey area, bought fresh fruits and vegetables at the new Muskegon Farmers Market, or spent a few minutes with a student attending the West Michigan Center for Arts and Technology, you’ve experienced the power of collaboration at work throughout West and Northern Michigan. When we come together with other funders, sharing and embracing a common vision, big things happen that change lives!

Working at the intersection of family, community, and philanthropy, Frey Foundation trustees and staff weigh needs with opportunities as we strive to do the most good we can in our role as a mid-sized, placed-based funder. When we hone our focus and partner with others, the impact of our collective…

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