East Grand Rapids Community Foundation

MISSION STATEMENT: To secure financial and community support for services, programs and projects that enhance the quality of life for the residents and visitors of East Grand Rapids.

The East Grand Rapids Community Foundation is a 501(c)3 organization operating in East Grand Rapids, Michigan with a mission to secure financial and community support for services, programs and projects that enhance the quality of life for the residents and visitors of East Grand Rapids.

The EGR Community Foundation works with City and community leaders on projects and programs that will enhance the quality of life of residents of the City of East Grand Rapids and the surrounding areas.  The Foundation assists the City of East Grand Rapids with projects that fall outside the parameters of the yearly budget, and works with other community organizations that use the funding for things like public beautification, historical preservation or service projects that benefit a large segment of the population.

The Foundation was originally formed in 2001 to assist the City of East Grand Rapids with fundraising efforts for the Reeds Lake Trail and the Community Center project. Following the successful completion of those projects, the Foundation turned to raising funds for other community enhancement projects and has been involved in many improvements to the area over the years.

The Foundation continues its support of community initiatives, and raising awareness of past, present and future of East Grand Rapids.  We invite you to get involved by including the East Grand Rapids Community Foundation in your charitable giving program, by joining a committee, or by telling friends and family about our organization.

DONATING

The East Grand Rapids Community Foundation continues its campaign to increase the Permanent Endowment Fund established in 2006.  The Permanent Endowment Fund is held and managed by the Grand Rapids Community Foundation because of their investment expertise and certain tax benefits offered to donors who donate directly to the Permanent Endowment Fund through their organization.

Interested citizens may donate to the following endeavors:

Permanent Endowment Fund Funds remain designated for permanent growth; a percentage of the interest is spent on projects. General Projects Fund Funds are spent at the discretion of the Board of Directors on worthwhile projects throughout the community, including new equipment, beautification, safety, wayfinding and historical preservation. Reeds Lake Trail Future Projects Can be used for repairs, maintenance, signage and enhancements to the trail.

Manhattan Park Multi-Use Trails
New trails are being designed and constructed in the natural areas of Manhattan Park that can be used for walking, hiking and biking.

Manhattan Park Playground Area Improvements
Future plans include new shade shelters, a splashpad, playgrounds, benches and other amenities.

Waterfront Park Future Projects
Future plans include additional trails, overlooks, shelters, an outdoor classroom and teaching kiosks.

PAST PROJECTS

Reeds Lake Trail Wayfinding Signs, Stencils, QR Code – 2020
Ramona Park Historical Marker – 2020
EGR School Foundation One East Campaign – 2020
Public Safety Department AED Purchase – 2020
Community Center Outdoor Message Sign – 2020
Commission Chamber Live Streaming Equipment – 2019
Reeds Lake Trail Bike Repair Stands – 2019
Collins Park Outdoor Bottle Filling Station – 2019
Gaslight Village Holiday Tree Replacement – 2018
Pedestrian Safety Campaign Videos – 2018
Public Safety Department Bicycle Lock Handout – 2015, 2016, 2018
Community Center Accessible Kayak Launch – 2018
Community Center Bottle Filling Stations – 2018
EGR History Room Supplies & Acquisitions – 2015
Reeds Lake Trail Boulevard Bridge – 2014
Public Safety Department Bruce VanPopering Memorial – 2011
Collins Park Signage – 2011
Poisson Memorial At Collins Park – November 2010
Proceeds of Reeds Lake Trail Blazer to the Reeds Lake Trail – July 2010
Challenge/Matching Grant for Reeds Lake Trail – November 2009
EGR History Room for artifact acquisition – May 2009
EGR Library 50^th Anniversary – April 2009
Gaslight Village Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony – October 2008-2020
Community Carnival – September 2008
EGR History Room for artifact acquisition – December 2007
March Madness Fundraiser – March 2007
March Madness Fundraiser – March 2006
Reeds Lake Trail Wayfinding Signage – October 2005

REEDS LAKE TRAIL BLAZER 5k RUN/WALK

The inaugural Reeds Lake Trail Blazer was held on July 4, 2010 with 384 participants, surpassing the goal of 200 set by the planning committee.  This annual event is held each year on the morning of the 4^th of July and has become an anticipated part of the city’s day of events. Serious and amateur athletes, walking groups and kids on bikes join together to raise funds for projects and programs of the EGR Community Foundation. For additional information, visit www.reedslaketrailblazer.com. 

GRANTS

Projects must enhance and preserve the quality of life for citizens in East Grand Rapids and the surrounding areas. For application information, contact Lori Parmenter at 616.949.2110 or lparmenter@eastgr.org.

CONTACT INFORMATION

Basic administrative functions are performed by East Grand Rapids City Staff. Contact Lori Parmenter at 616.949.2110 or lparmenter@eastgr.org or the Board president listed at the right.