Clare County Community Foundation Pleased to help Carry out Browns' Legacy

John A. and Audrey Brown had a special place in their hearts for the citizens of Clare County. Unfortunately, Mr. Brown passed away this last year, preceded by his wife. In fulfillment of his philanthropic goals, he contributed generous gifts to many local organizations.

Upon his passing, Mr. Brown's Trustee contacted the Clare County Community Foundation to find out about setting up a fund to benefit the citizens of Clare County. The fund that was established is the single largest contribution ever made to the Clare County Community Foundation. Specifically, the fund is to benefit children with cancer, adolescents with diabetes and adults and adolescents with multiple sclerosis.

The newly-formed John A. and Audrey Brown Memorial Endowment Fund was generously funded with $330,000.00 from the estate. The funds will be placed in an endowed fund which will earn interest to support the purpose of the fund which is; to provide grants in support of medical expenses, research and education in the area of children's cancer, adolescent diabetes and adult and adolescent Multiple Sclerosis to benefit the citizens of Clare County.

The fund will support local Clare families by providing MidMichigan Medical Center-Clare with funding to assist families as they seek and receive treatment for these specific illnesses. "This is an amazing legacy to have left in our community," said Carol Santini, Chair of the Board of Trustees at the Clare County Community Foundation. "This fund that the Browns' created will assist our community members in a truly meaningful way. The Browns cared very much for their fellow man and the Foundation is honored to be able to help honor their memory with this active and beneficial fund."

Funding through this legacy will be available in 2011. Anyone interested in learning more about utilizing the fund can inquire at MidMichigan Health-Clare. To make a contribution to this fund or start your own fund that empowers a cause you believe in, please the call the Foundation at 1-800-906-9661.