Making a
Difference,
Together
The Community Foundation of Monroe County (CFMC) builds a thriving, inclusive community through the power of philanthropy. By connecting generous donors with local causes, we help ensure Monroe County remains a place where everyone can thrive. Since our founding, we’ve been a trusted steward of community resources, fostering impactful collaborations and sustainable solutions to address challenges in education, health, poverty, and community development.
Who We Are
At CFMC, we believe in the transformative power of community-driven change. Founded in 1978 to address unmet local needs, CFMC operates with a steadfast commitment to stewardship, inclusion, and transparency. Over the years, we’ve become a leading philanthropic organization, managing over 100 funds to help individuals, families, and businesses create lasting legacies.
Our guiding values shape
everything we do:
Stewardship: Upholding integrity and transparency in managing donor funds.
Local Impact: Tackling pressing community issues through meaningful grants and initiatives.
Partnerships: Working with nonprofits, volunteers, and leaders to amplify positive change.
Inclusion: Embracing diversity in our philanthropic decisions and efforts.
Legacy: Creating results that resonate for generations to come.
A Legacy
of Impact
A Humble Beginning
With just $25 in hand, David Hehl planted the seed that would grow into the Community Foundation of Monroe County. Inspired by Herman Gertz’s vision to meet Monroe County’s unmet needs, $24 was dedicated to the General Endowment Fund, and $1 went toward administration. It was a small start with a big purpose—empowering our community through philanthropy.
Leadership Takes Shape
A year later, Mary Daume became the first Executive Director, formalizing CFMC’s leadership and establishing a foundation for meaningful change. The board of trustees began steering the organization toward its mission of doing what needed to be done for Monroe County.
Building Stability
To secure CFMC’s future, Robert Duffey established the Duffey Administrative Fund. This fund ensured operational sustainability, allowing the Foundation to focus on maximizing community impact.
Reaching New Heights
By 2002, CFMC’s assets surpassed $3.7 million—a milestone that reflected growing trust and support from donors who believed in the Foundation’s mission to improve Monroe County.
Expanding Horizons
The Foundation extended its reach by partnering with the Greater Milan Area Foundation, offering Milan donors a way to support local causes while benefiting from CFMC’s asset management expertise. It was a step toward uniting neighboring communities through shared goals.
Championing Accessibility
In 2007, CFMC launched its Access to Recreation Fund, transforming local spaces into inclusive environments. From accessible playgrounds to sensory gardens, these projects became symbols of community inclusion and care.
Prioritizing Health
When the Monroe County Health Plan Corporation dissolved, it entrusted $1.15 million to CFMC. This contribution created the Monroe Health Plan Endowment Fund, ensuring continued support for vital health initiatives in the county.
Innovating Education
To combat rising student absenteeism, CFMC invested $100,000 in tele-health technology for Monroe Public Schools. These remote health kiosks allowed students to access timely care, keeping them healthy and engaged in learning.
A New Chapter
CFMC welcomed Valerie Orr as its new Executive Director. With deep nonprofit expertise and a clear vision for the future, Valerie is committed to strengthening donor relationships and expanding the Foundation’s impact.
Together, We Create What’s Next
Our dedicated staff and board of directors are passionate
about driving CFMC’s mission forward:
Valerie Orr, Executive Director
Valerie Orr brings extensive experience in school district administration, finance, human resources, and public relations to her role as Executive Director of the Community Foundation of Monroe County.
A dedicated leader with a distinguished career in education, Valerie has served Monroe County in impactful roles, including Monroe High School Principal and Superintendent of the Whiteford Agricultural School District. Her strategic leadership has introduced innovative student programs, enhanced financial stability, and secured a $30 million bond for district improvements.
Her collaborative approach is exemplified by her partnership with ProMedica Regional Hospital to create a career pathways program. As Superintendent of Grosse Ile Township Schools, she implemented a successful marketing initiative that secured a $72 million bond for district advancement.
Valerie’s passion for fostering community growth and creating opportunities aligns perfectly with the foundation’s mission of building a stronger Monroe County. She draws inspiration from the resilience and potential of the communities she serves.
Meet The Board
President
Keith Masserant
Vice President
Susan Vanisacker
Treasurer
Ryan Thompson
Secretary
Debbie Dushane
Member
Amy Zangara
Member
Barry Buschmann
Member
Barry Kinsey
Member
Dr. Carl Shultz
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Annual Reports: Transparency Matters
Our annual reports showcase the impact of CFMC and the generosity of our donors. These reports reflect our commitment to integrity, fiscal responsibility, and transparency.