Give Now

Contact

News

Log In

Preserving Otsego Lake:

Sep 2, 2025 | All News

Introducing OCFโ€™s Newest Designated Fund

The Otsego Community Foundation (OCF) is thrilled to announce the launch of its newest designated fund:ย The Otsego Lake Fund, established by Regan and Sandra Quaal. This fund is dedicated to supporting projects and programs that protect and preserve the natural beauty and ecological health of Otsego Lake.

โ€œSandra and I started the Otsego Lake Fund because we believe in the power of endowments to create lasting impact. This fund isnโ€™t just about todayโ€”itโ€™s about forever. As it grows, so will the resources available to protect and preserve the lakeโ€™s beauty and health for generations to come. Itโ€™s a way to ensure that Otsego Lake remains a treasure, not just for us, but for everyone who comes after.โ€ โ€“ Regan Quaal

In August, the Quaals hosted a warm and inspiring gathering at their lakeside home to kick off fundraising for this important endowment. Surrounded by friends, neighbors, and lake lovers, the event marked the beginning of a long-term commitment to safeguarding one of Otsego Countyโ€™s most treasured natural resources.

What Is a Designated Fund?

designated fund is a type of charitable endowment that allows donors to support a specific nonprofit organization or cause over time. When you establish a designated fund through OCF, you create a permanent income stream for the organization you care about most. The fund is invested, and the earnings are used to make annual grantsโ€”providing reliable, long-term support.

Designated funds offer:

  • Planned giving support
  • Investment management services
  • Tax benefits
  • Flexibility to accept complex gifts like real estate or appreciated stock

Even if the original organization changes or ceases to exist, the fund can be redirected to continue honoring your charitable intent.


Why Endowments Matter

Endowments are more than financial toolsโ€”theyโ€™re legacies. They ensure that vital causes like Otsego Lake receive consistent funding, regardless of economic ups and downs. By contributing to an endowment, you help build a permanent source of community capital that will do good work forever.


Join the Movement to Protect Otsego Lake

The Otsego Lake Fund is a call to action for everyone who loves the lake. Whether youโ€™re a year-round resident, a seasonal visitor, or someone who simply values Michiganโ€™s natural beauty, your support can make a lasting impact. Donate today to the Otsego Lake Fund and help preserve the lake for generations to come!
Make checks payable to Otsego Community Foundation with Otsego Lake Fund in memo and mail to: 

OCF 
P.O. Box 344 
Gaylord, MI 49734 

You can donate online at https://godonate.akoyago.com/OCF/fund/otsego-lake-fund,  

To discuss other giving options including stocks, legacy etc. reach out to Amanda Sosa, amanda@otsegofoundation.org or 989-731-0597.  

Recent Posts

Small Grants, Big Impact: 2nd Quarter Adapt Grant Awards

Small Grants, Big Impact: 2nd Quarter Adapt Grant Awards

At the Otsego Community Foundation, we see every day how small ideas can make a big difference. Adapt Grants are designed to support those momentsโ€”when an organization needs to respond quickly, try something new, or strengthen the work theyโ€™re already doing. Adapt...

Celebrating Youth Advisory Committee Graduating Seniors

Celebrating Youth Advisory Committee Graduating Seniors

Each year, the Otsego Community Foundation proudly recognizes the graduating seniors who have dedicated their time, talents, and leadership to the Youth Advisory Committee (YAC). These students have played a vital role in strengthening our community, and we are deeply...