Dear CMF Members, 

In philanthropy we are all in the “patient capital business” where we take time to consider the impact of our actions and investment. And yet we need to remind ourselves of the importance of slowing down, to give ourselves permission for the critical work of reflection. To reflect, celebrate and learn from our successes, failures and our impact as we continue our collective equity journey.  

We began 2021 just days away from the initial release of the COVID-19 vaccines—giving hope for an end to the pandemic. We will close this year with 62% of Michigan residents (ages 5 and up) vaccinated, as we face a surge in the Delta and Omicron variants. Philanthropy has played a critical role in meeting various COVID-19 relief milestones through strategic support and coordination, quality partnerships and a deep engagement with and understanding of our communities. CMF members’ efforts to support not only vaccine outreach but recovery, resilience and reform throughout the pandemic have indeed been exceptional.   

Michigan philanthropy has invested in nonprofits providing for essential needs, support for small businesses, helping ensure safe access to schools, providing for mental health programs, helping arts and culture organizations find new ways to engage their audiences, helping new immigrants find new and welcoming communities – and so much more. You are demonstrating the power of a thriving philanthropic sector. We thank you for your innovation and impact in 2021 and certainly in the years ahead.  

As we look ahead to 2022, we feel hopeful and thankful– inspired by your examples. While we cannot be certain what life will look like in the coming months, we know that you have led in a time of incredible transformation for our communities, our state and our sector and that momentum only continues to grow. We urge you to pause to reflect on where we as a community of philanthropy have been over the last two years and where we are headed in 2022. As you do so, please know that we are filled with deep appreciation and gratitude for your enduring leadership and your engagement in CMF. We remain focused on leading, strengthening and supporting the people, practices, and policies and your commitment to advancing our collective equity journey. 

We wish you and your loved ones a safe and happy new year.  

Sincerely, 

Lynne Ferrell                    Kyle Caldwell 

CMF Board Chair            President & CEO 

Program Director             CMF

Frey Foundation