Financial Overview

Our continued contribution to a thriving southeast Michigan relies on having a sustainable financial foundation, guided by our values of operational excellence, trust and integrity. During 2025, in sync with our 10-year strategic plan, we implemented several changes to our investment program that position us to move forward with confidence as a responsible steward of our community’s philanthropic dollars.

The Community Foundation transitioned to a new investment advisor, Fund Evaluation Group (FEG), following a thoughtful and thorough review of our investment strategy and future needs. This change reflects our commitment to aligning investments with our mission and values, enhancing transparency, and supporting long-term impact. FEG also brings us the benefit of having deep experience with community foundations. With this transition, we’re strengthening trust with our donors, standing apart as a forward- thinking foundation, and ensuring the long-term growth of the resources entrusted to us — all in pursuit of a stronger, more resilient region.

We’re honored that, in 2025, Community Foundation Trustee and CEO of the Renaissance Venture Capital Fund, Chris Rizik, succeeded Ken Whipple as chair, while Community Foundation Trustee and former State of Michigan Treasurer Nick Khouri became the committee’s vice chair. Rizik and Khouri bring years of experience to their roles on our Investment Committee, and we believe they’re the perfect leaders to help the Community Foundation navigate through periods of economic uncertainty and beyond.

We’re also pleased that Linda Lutz joined the Community Foundation team as chief financial officer in 2025. Lutz’s previous role was as vice president and chief financial and administrative officer of the Detroit Symphony Orchestra, where she played an integral role on the senior leadership team, contributing to the organization’s strategic direction and operational excellence.

“Linda’s deep expertise and commitment to both financial stewardship and community impact are exactly what we need to move our organization forward,” Community Foundation President and CEO Nicole Sherard- Freeman says. “As we double down on our strategic vision to meet changes in community needs and enhance our own fiscal stability, Linda’s skills and experiences will help to ensure we’re managing and growing assets that our partners have entrusted to us with thoughtfulness, care and prudence.”

The Community Foundation appreciates the dedication, integrity and support of our full financial team, volunteer committee members and advisors in protecting the assets that donors have entrusted us with to grow in support of a thriving southeast Michigan.