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Legacy Society
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Leave Your Legacy

When you make a bequest or other planned gift to the Bay Area Community Foundation, you become a valued member of our Legacy Society. As a Legacy Society member, you are among a visionary group of individuals dedicated to shaping a brighter future for our Bay Area community.

Where to Begin

Becoming a Legacy Society member is a straightforward and impactful process. You can do so by including the Bay Area Community Foundation in your estate plan through your will or trust. Alternatively, you can make a contribution through charitable gift annuities, life insurance, retirement fund assets, or a charitable remainder or lead trust.

Once you’ve made your decision, kindly inform us about your plan so that we can officially welcome you into our Legacy Society. It’s as simple as that.

 

Bay Area Community Foundation Legacy Society

Below we honor some of the individuals who have left a mark on our community, both during their lifetime and beyond. These individuals have contributed to the betterment of our community through their generosity, vision, and dedication.

Nathalie Awrey

Carol Noeske

Garnett and Elmie Compeau

John R. Edmands

Elizabeth J. Husband

Charles and Morrow Ford

Margaret A. Hanson

Mary Jennings

Ingrid Jepsen

Joyce Johnson

 

Ronald and Greta McGillivray

Janet McHenry

Betty E. Nusselt

Rosemary Pope

Robert D. Sarow

Richard Shockley

Walter and Carol Weinlander

Nan Wells

Stephen Wirt

 

What is a planned gift?

A planned gift allows you to leave a lasting legacy by supporting the causes and organizations you are passionate about, ensuring that your values live on.

Once you’ve made your decision, kindly inform us about your plan so that we can officially welcome you into our Legacy Society. It’s as simple as that.

Learn more about Planned Giving

Need assistance?
We’re here to help.
989.893.4438

Shawna Walraven - President and CEO

I serve alongside our board of trustees as a steward of the funds donors have entrusted to us. I enjoy being able to connect people to the causes they care about most.

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Nicole Horn

989.893.4438 or email below 

Donor Relations and Communications Officer

At BACF, I am fortunate to contribute to our mission in meaningful and impactful ways. As your main contact for donor-advised funds, I help ensure that each donor’s unique passions are brought to life through their giving—whether this be through designated or agency funds. It is an honor to connect with generous community members, and I am always available to discuss how you can create a lasting impact in our community.  

In addition, I oversee all of BACF’s communications, bringing ideas to life through engaging stories and visuals. While upholding our brand identity, I strive to highlight the remarkable individuals in our community and the collaborative efforts that make Bay and Arenac counties exceptional places to live, work, and thrive.

As a lifelong Bay County resident, I am deeply connected to our people and community. I cherish the opportunity to build meaningful relationships and am committed to enhancing the quality of life for everyone in Bay and Arenac counties, ensuring a bright future for generations to come.

I Can Help You With:

  • Donor Advised Funds
  • Agency & Designated Funds
  • Business Sponsorships
  • Give Local Bay and BACF Events
  • BACF Website
  • BACF Donor Portal

Things I Do In My Free Time: You’ll often find me at a local coffee shop in Downtown Bay City and frequenting the area’s local arts and music scene. I also love hiking and exploring parks both in our area and throughout northern Michigan.

Madi Syring

989.893.4438 or email below 

Program Officer

I am proud to serve my community through my role at BACF. As a Program Officer, I collaborate with nonprofit, government, church, and school partners in Bay and Arenac counties to navigate our grant opportunities and find the right funding alignment. From project conception to post-award, I am your main contact for all things grants. Connecting organizations and donors who share the same vision and passion is at the heart of my work.

I am dedicated to supporting the organizations that work tirelessly to improve our community. Additionally, I provide capacity-building opportunities by hosting educational workshops, managing Catchafire—a volunteer platform connecting organizations with professional services at no cost—and offering technical assistance and resources to build strength in our nonprofit community.
 

I Can Help You With:

  • Navigating the Competitive Grant Process
  • Finding Funding Alignment
  • Building Organizational Capacity
  • Technical Assistance

Things I Do In My Free Time: Outside of work, you might catch me on the trail with my dog! I love backpacking, hiking, hunting, and kayaking all over Michigan. I’m also an avid reader, so you might find me at a local library or bookshop. 

Rachael Rosas

989.893.4438 or email below

Administrative Officer

As the Administrative Officer at BACF, my responsibilities include maintaining our comprehensive database, accurately documenting gifts, and collaborating with building vendors to maintain the historic Pere Marquette Depot.

I am committed to establishing well-documented processes that contribute to the ongoing success of BACF. My deep appreciation for the Pere Marquette Depot drives me to preserve this historic landmark as a source of price for our community, ensuring its legacy for future generations. 

I Can Help You With:

  • Making a Gift to One of Our Many Funds
  • Updating Your Contact Information
  • Identifying the Most Helpful Staff Member or Resource
  • Answering General Questions about BACF
  • Providing Information About the Pere Marquette Depot and 1904 Room Event Space

Things I Do In My Free Time: I enjoy immersing myself in flower gardening and various art projects. I love spending time in nature and attending community events, which help me stay connected and get inspired. 

Frances Moore

989.893.4438 or email below 

Program and Finance Associate

As the Program and Finance Associate at BACF, I support our Scholarship Program and partner with the Director of Finance on financial reporting. I also assist in the management of the Pere Marquette Depot and the 1904 Room event space.

I am honored to play a role in helping individuals achieve their dreams and reach their full potential. I am passionate about making a positive impact and am always ready to lend a helping hand to ensure the success of our programs and the betterment of our community. 

I Can Help You With:

  • Scholarship Applications and Award Process
  • Information about the Pere Marquette Depot and 1904 Room Event Space
  • Coordination with Scholarship Committees
  • General Support for BACF Programs and Initiatives

Things I Do In My Free Time: I enjoy spending time with family and friends, exploring Michigan’s beautiful landscapes, camping under the stars, and bike riding through scenic trails.