As we reflect on our 50th anniversary year, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunity to lead the Frey Foundation alongside the Frey family and our dedicated community partners. Milestones like these are both an opportunity to look back and look forward — to reflect on the roots and relationships the foundation has developed in our communities and the impact we’ve made; to look forward with renewed energy, to build new relationships, to challenge ourselves, and to continue making west and northern Michigan places where all can thrive.
Because the foundation has been at this work for generations, we have a unique understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing our communities. We work collaboratively with local partners to identify and address the most pressing needs.
Two of those collaborations to honor our 50th year were with Storytime in the Park – Garfield Park and Harbor Springs Festival of the Book. Each of these partners provide space to gather, celebrate literacy and strengthen communities beyond books.
Over the past 50 years, we’ve awarded nearly $191 million through more than 5,500 grants. But our impact goes beyond the numbers—it’s about the lives changed and the communities uplifted through these investments. As we embark on our next 50 years, we remain steadfast in our role as a place-based funder, committed to fostering resilient, equitable communities where everyone has the chance to do great things.
With gratitude,
