Fund created in name of retired Rotary Charities leader

TRAVERSE CITY — The Grand Traverse Regional Community Foundation has created a fund in the name of Marsha Smith, who recently retired after serving 22 years as the executive director of Rotary Charities.

Smith asked, a release stated, that people consider marking her retirement not with gifts for her, but rather for the community. The Community Foundation established the Marsha J. Smith Community Leadership Fund to create that opportunity.

Grants will be awarded to support individuals of all ages and in all types of positions from across the five-county area in leadership development. Funds will enable leaders to attend conferences, seminars, classes and other educational opportunities where they can acquire the skills needed to lead the charge in building healthy, fair, and prosperous communities in the region.

The fund is supported by contributions from individuals, organizations, and companies who seek to honor the legacy of leadership that Smith left behind. More than $15,000 already has been committed to the fund, including a contribution from the Rotary Charities Board.

Donations to the Marsha J. Smith Community Leadership Fund can be made on the Community Foundation Website (www.gtrcf.org/give/) or by mailing a check to: Community Foundation, 250 E. Front Street, Ste. 310, Traverse City, MI 49684. Make checks payable to the Community Foundation and note in the memo line that it is for the Marsha J. Smith Community Leadership Fund.