A Lasting Thank You
- 13 minutes ago
- 3 min read
A new tradition honors retiring board members by awarding grants to the nonprofits they love.
For nine years, Jim Ellis, Dennis Duerst, Marsha Shotley, and Buck Malik helped guide the St. Croix Valley Foundation through a period of remarkable growth and impact. From strategic leadership and financial stewardship to committee leadership and community partnerships, each played an important role in advancing the Foundation's mission.
This year, the Foundation introduced a new tradition to mark the end of their term. Rather than recognizing retiring board members with a plaque or gift, the Foundation chose to honor their service in a way that reflects its mission—through charitable giving. Each retiring board member chose a nonprofit to receive a $500 recognition grant. Their selections offer a glimpse into the causes that have inspired their service and continue to strengthen communities throughout the St. Croix Valley.
Jim Ellis | St. Croix Valley Habitat for Humanity
As a former Board Chair and Vice Chair, Jim Ellis helped guide the Foundation through the development of its Strategic Action Plan, creating a roadmap that continues to shape the Foundation's work today.
When it came time to select a nonprofit for his recognition grant, Jim chose St. Croix Valley Habitat for Humanity, where he serves on the board and has witnessed the transformative power of affordable homeownership.
Jim said, "Habitat for Humanity provides more than homes; it creates a foundation for families to thrive for generations. Helping families achieve affordable homeownership is one of the most meaningful ways we can strengthen our communities."
Dennis Duerst | Hudson Library Foundation
As Board Treasurer and longtime chair of the Foundation's Finance & Investment Committee, Dennis Duerst helped strengthen the Foundation's financial stewardship, including leading the
shift to a more sophisticated investment management model that still benefits the Foundation today.
Dennis chose the Hudson Library Foundation, an organization deeply connected to his family's history. His father was a passionate supporter of the library, and his wife, Lois, previously served on the Library Foundation board, making this gift a meaningful tribute to a family legacy of community service.
Dennis said, "We have always been supporters of the library, but now that we have grandchildren, we truly realize the value that the library provides for all ages in our community.”
Marsha Shotley | Washington County Historical Society
As Chair of the Philanthropic Services Committee, Marsha Shotley brought decades of fundraising and development expertise to the Foundation, helping strengthen philanthropy and support ongoing organizational growth. Even as her board service ends, she has expressed interest in continuing to assist with special Foundation projects.
Marsha directed her recognition grant to the Washington County Historical Society because she believes the rich history of communities on both sides of the St. Croix River should be preserved and shared. By connecting today's residents with yesterday's stories, it encourages a deeper appreciation for the communities we call home.
"Our communities are rich with the facts and stories that trace our journey from the past to the present. By understanding our history, we strengthen our connection to one another and gain a deeper appreciation for the path that brought us here today," Marsha shared.
Buck Malik | Sustain Hudson
Throughout his nine years on the Foundation's Board, Buck Malik served on both the Finance & Investment Committee and the Affiliate Committee, helping strengthen the Foundation while supporting its expanding network of affiliate community foundations. He is especially proud of the Foundation’s rebranding and its growth beyond $100 million in assets.
Buck selected Sustain Hudson, where he serves on the board and has seen firsthand the impact of helping emerging community organizations succeed. Instead of running traditional nonprofit programs, Sustain Hudson acts as a fiscal sponsor, providing administrative and financial support so emerging community initiatives can focus on serving their communities.
"Supporting organizations in their early stages creates opportunities for lasting community impact. Sustain Hudson helps make that possible," said Buck.
As Jim, Dennis, Marsha, and Buck each conclude nine years of board service, they leave behind more than strong governance and thoughtful leadership. Through this new tradition, they also leave one final gift to causes that have mattered throughout their lives, a fitting reflection of the generosity and community spirit they brought to the Foundation.
Comments