News & Stories
Building a Future that Lasts through Giving
Image description: Jerry Ring wearing a short‑sleeved denim button‑down shirt stands outdoors in front of lush green trees and foliage.
Since relocating to Traverse City in 2019, Jerry Ring has actively supported the Community Foundation as a Board Director, donor partner, and as a member of our Community Guardian Legacy Society.
Not long after settling into his new home, Jerry, a former New England resident, had the opportunity to meet our former President and CEO, Dave Mengebier. After realizing his own values—namely equity, collaboration, stewardship, and adaptability—aligned with ours, Jerry began donating and supporting our Community Funds and our Endowment for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion.
“These funds are very consistent with my values, the values of the Community Foundation, and the values of the communities we serve,” shared Jerry.
With a strong commitment to making the community where you live a better place for all, Jerry has applied this belief to each of the communities he has been a part of during his 40-year career in public affairs with The Dow Chemical Company, taking him around the world to countries like Hong Kong and Ireland.
Throughout his career and travels, Jerry witnessed that thriving communities have an engaged nonprofit sector. While becoming acquainted with our region, Jerry saw this play out right here, which made him all the more excited to get involved on a deeper level.
“This region has a record of accomplishment that strongly supports my belief that nonprofits can accomplish what other organizations cannot in terms of helping ensure an equitable quality of life for all,” said Jerry.
To further support his goals around equity and meeting community needs, Jerry created the Jerold and Catharine Ring Endowment, one of our named Community Funds. In addition to this, Jerry became a member of our Community Guardian Legacy Society to help provide for our region’s future needs.
“We stand on the shoulders of those who came before us, particularly in terms of our quality of life. We should do no less for those who come after us,” said Jerry. “Investing in the Community Foundation through legacy giving helps ensure the best outcome long term.”
Serving on our Board, creating an endowment, and helping to safeguard community assets for the next generation are all ways Jerry is making a difference in his community and for our region.
Writer: Alex Dailey