As part of our work in stewarding the Frey Foundation into our 50th year, we launched a new tagline: “Do great things where you are planted.” For our family foundation, these words are a renewed commitment to our place-based work, to the communities that mean so much to us.
“Doing great things” has always meant more than just providing grants. It means understanding our communities and actively listening to our partners to help them achieve their goals. It means building lasting relationships and helping connect others to nurture new relationships. It means convening and bringing people and groups together. It means showing up consistently in west and northern Michigan. The “beyond the check” is often equally as impactful as the check itself.
Looking ahead, I’m optimistic about our collective future. While our communities face significant challenges, I’m convinced that our collaborative spirit—our “special sauce,” as I like to call it—will continue to put community first and drive positive change. As Alexis de Tocqueville observed in the 1800’s: America’s strength lies not in our capital cities, but in our communities working together to solve problems and improve lives.
Now fully in our third generation of leadership, the Frey Foundation remains committed to doing great things—through thoughtful grantmaking, strong partnerships and sustained commitment to our Pillars of Place. Onward!
