As the Community Foundation’s 80th-anniversary celebration quickly approaches, we’re sharing a few reflections on local corporate partnerships that have been important to our work and the companies’.
For over a decade, Eastern Michigan Bank and the Community Foundation have been united by a shared vision of investing in and uplifting our local community.
William Oldford, Jr., President, and CEO of Eastern Michigan Bank, captured the essence of the partnership when he stated, “As organizations, Eastern Michigan Bank and the Community Foundation share similar goals and missions, where a commitment to the community is our common thread.” These words underscore the deep-rooted values that bind us together and inspire us to work hard for the betterment of our community.
In 2021, Eastern Michigan Bank grew its commitment to giving back locally by opening a corporate donor-advised fund with the Community Foundation. This marked an exciting expansion of our relationship, providing the bank with even greater opportunities to connect with and support the needs of our community.
A corporate donor-advised fund at a community foundation is like a charitable savings account set up by a company. The company puts money into this fund, which is managed by the community foundation. Then, the company can recommend grants to specific nonprofits or causes from that fund over time. It’s a way for businesses to support charities while getting tax benefits and being strategic about their giving.
The bank supports the operations of numerous local charities through direct giving and has also provided grants through their corporate DAF for wishlist items to help local school children have supplies needed for the arts, support building improvements at Athletic Factory, as well as the summer concert series in St. Clair, and more.
At Eastern Michigan Bank, being a community bank means more than just providing excellent service to customers; it means being a catalyst for positive change and a champion for those in need. In partnering with the Community Foundation, they have found a kindred spirit—one that shares their dedication to delivering quality service and support to donors and supporters alike.
Through their corporate donor-advised fund, the bank has embraced the power of collective giving, leveraging their resources to address pressing issues and create lasting change in our community. Whether through supporting local entrepreneurs, bolstering nonprofits, or supporting local families through nonprofits that serve them, they’re growing their impact to be felt far and wide.
The bank also encourages its employees to be involved locally in the community and to volunteer their time. Chad Deaner and Jasmine Williams are two examples of bank employees who also serve on the Community Foundation’s audit committee and grants committee.
Jasmine also serves on the boards of the Blue Water Young Professionals and SC4 Foundation and Chad is on the Board for the EDA of St. Clair County. Chris Flann and Kim Bowmann are also bank employees that are very involved in the community. Chris serves as Treasurer, Director, and member of the Finance and Governance Committee for the Blue Water Chamber of Commerce; member of the Board of Trustees for McLaren Hospital Port Huron; and member of the Emerge Fund Review Panel for the St. Clair County EDA. Kim serves as the President of the Landmark Academy Board of Education and Vice Chair of the Port Huron Township DDA.
As we celebrate the partnership between Eastern Michigan Bank and the Community Foundation, we are grateful for the opportunities to work together to build a stronger community and lay the foundation for a brighter future for generations to come.