In late 1988, a group of visionaries led by then Mayor of Greenville, Lloyd Walker, discussed the idea of an organization that would help people of the Greenville area make charitable investments that would benefit the entire community. The Greenville Area Community Foundation (GACF) became just that type of organization in 1989. It is a non-profit, tax-exempt charitable organization 501(c)(3) (EIN: 38-2899657) that has grown to over $40,000,000 in endowed assets in 33 years of existence. Since 1989, GACF’s service area has grown to encompass the entire Montcalm County area through association with our geographic affiliate funds, as well as, through fund awareness and grants that benefit the entire county.
Through the generosity of many community-minded citizens, over 175 funds have been developed within the GACF, LACF, and MPCF encompassing a variety of purposes. They include various scholarship opportunities, as well as funding for fields of interest such as the arts, youth and senior citizens, literacy and education, and local advocacy organizations, museums and libraries. One of the most important funds is the Unrestricted Fund that will truly allow the GACF to try and meet the ever-changing needs of the area for years to come.
Leadership – Board of Trustees & Staff
The Greenville Area Community Foundation is led by a 15-member Board of Trustees who represent the Greenville area. Our trustees are volunteers who donate their time and expertise to help identify opportunities for community impact. Trustees are selected based on their experience and interest in enhancing the local quality of life. They represent area businesses, government, schools, the arts, and more.
Board Chair Dr. Peter Blinkilde, Vice Chair Eric Januzelli and Secretary/Treasurer Amy Homich. Byron Cook became Chair Emeritus in 2002 and Lee Renterghem received Chair Emeritus status in June of 2006. Lee retired from the Board after 20 years of service. Upon his passing in 2018, the GACF office building was named the Lee Renterghem Nonprofit Center in his honor. Byron Cook actively served on the GACF Board until his passing in September 2021.
Trustees include Susan Ayres, Kris Stevens-Berry, Dick Ellafrits, Doug Hinken, John Hoppough, Dr. Charles McNinch, John O’Donald DDS, Angela Peterman, Dave Seppala, MaryBeth Taylor, and Phil Tower. Six of the Trustees are appointed by area entities. They include: Doug Hinken and John Hoppough- appointed by the Mayor and City of Greenville, Amy Homich – appointed by Eureka Township, Dave Seppala- appointed by the Greenville Area Chamber of Commerce, Susan Ayres representing arts in the community, and MaryBeth Taylor– appointed by Greenville Public Schools.
Sally Marshall joined the staff in 2002 and is the Director of Finance. Laura Montoye joined the staff in 2016 and is the Director of Community Investment. Kristen Kohn joined the staff in 2022 as the Director of Community Impact. Alison Barberi is the President and CEO and has been with the GACF since December of 1999.
The Board meets twelve times a year with the Annual Organizational Meeting in January. The GACF is always looking for people interested in becoming involved on a volunteer basis. If you are would like more information about those opportunities, contact the Greenville Area Community Foundation.
Community foundations such as the GACF have three distinct features:
GACF gifts are endowed
The fund principal is invested and protected
It’s earnings are distributed via grants
Permanent community capital is built
Donor legacies are created
GACF has a flexible purpose
We monitor community needs
We support high-impact opportunities
We fund innovative initiatives as well as operational needs
We redirect funds as appropriate as the everchanging needs in our area
GACF accommodates personalized giving
Donors fulfill multiple charitable intents
Donors can contribute in a variety of ways
Donors can be involved in establishing a fund
Donors gain a maximum tax advantage
