Mt. Pleasant Area Community Foundation

For good. For ever.

306 South University Avenue Mount Pleasant, MI, 48858 United States

(989) 773-7322

Our mission is to enhance the quality of life for all citizens of Isabella County, now and for generations to come, by attracting and holding permanent endowed funds from a wide range of donors, addressing needs through grant making and providing leadership on key community issues.

Richard and Mary Barz Family Fund

Richard and Mary Barz both grew up in Isabella County and have always enjoyed giving back to the community they know and love. “We love living here, and we love the people we know,” Mary said.

Rick and Mary have been highly involved with several volunteer organizations as well as the local school district for many years. It was out of this sense of philanthropy that they decided to leave a legacy in Mt. Pleasant by starting the Richard and Mary Barz Family Fund. The fund is donor-advised, meaning Rick and Mary can make funding recommendations to support their choice of local causes.

Richard and Mary Barz

Regular donors to the Mt. Pleasant Area Community Foundation, Rick and Mary learned more about the organization and the lasting impact of endowed funds when two of their children became involved in the Youth Advisory Committee (YAC). “YAC was a catalyst for a deeper understanding of what an endowed fund could do for the community,” Rick said. 

Rick and Mary found that their children’s involvement with YAC gave them more than just a great learning experience, but also a chance to do something positive in the community. Through the establishment of the Richard and Mary Barz Family Fund, they hope to support local residents and groups having a positive, lasting influence on the community, and to encourage future generations to do the same.