Established 1936 – John A. Collins, President

EMBASSY SUITES BY HILTON, GRAND RAPIDS DOWNTOWN

Big E's Sports Grille

710 Monroe Avenue NW, Grand Rapids

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 8, 2026 – 7:00 AM

Philanthropy holds an unusually central place in American life — not just as charitable giving, but as a cultural force that has shaped communities, institutions, and even national identity. At its core, philanthropy is one of America’s most powerful tools for solving problems, strengthening communities, and expressing shared values. Philanthropy in America functions as a parallel engine of democracy, empowering everyday people, private citizens, and local groups to build the world they want to live in.

Philanthropy in America is not a side activity. It’s a pillar of the national story, shaping everything from hospitals and universities to social movements and neighborhood programs. It’s one of the ways Americans practice democracy, express identity, and invest in the next generation.

Dr. Michael Layton, the W.K. Kellogg Community Philanthropy Chair at the Dorothy A. Johnson Center for Philanthropy at Grand Valley State University, will present Benjamin Franklin and the Invention of American Generosity: Tracing America’s Philanthropic DNA from 1723 to 2026.

Please join us for an engaging, thought-provoking session that blends history, culture, and forward-looking insight—offering a deeper understanding of why generosity remains one of America’s most powerful and defining traits.

Invocation: Eric Nelson
Introduction: Jeff Kissinger

Philanthropy  

1. “The good we do for others is the only treasure we carry with us.” ~ Benjamin Franklin

2. We are continually faced with great opportunities brilliantly disguised as insoluble problems.” ~ James Gardner

3. I would rather have it said, ‘He lived usefully,’ than, ‘He died rich.’” ~ Benjamin Franklin