Our Legacy and Spenddown
Fred and Barbara Erb’s Legacy
Fred and Barbara Erb were driven by a heartfelt desire to create a better world for future generations. Their commitment to giving back has shaped a lasting legacy for the health of the Great Lakes, support for Detroit area cultural institutions, and the advancement of Alzheimer’s research and sustainable business practices.
Fred was a successful businessman who believed in the power of businesses to be change agents in creating a more environmentally sustainable world. He had an amazing passion for jazz music that began in high school and was a daily source of joy throughout his life.
Barbara was an organic gardener long before it was mainstream and wanted to ensure the health of the Great Lakes for her grandchildren’s grandchildren. She loved the theater and she and Fred were avid collectors of 20th century art. They also understood the critical importance of a strong democracy and the value of voting rights for all Americans.
Today, Fred and Barbara’s shared interests, passions, and values are reflected throughout the Foundation’s grantmaking and have left a lasting legacy across Southeast Michigan and the Great Lakes region.
Our Spenddown to 2034
In the spring of 2022, the Foundation made the decision to spend down its assets by 2034. The decision stemmed from a desire to address urgent needs more effectively and to implement transformative projects that can create lasting change within a shorter time frame.
The Foundation adopted a strategic plan to guide its final decade in fall of 2024. As the Foundation begins to wind down its grantmaking, we will continue to work and learn alongside our grant partners, helping strengthen their organizations so they can outlast us.
Interested in Partnering?
If your organization also envisions a flourishing, healthy, and resilient Great Lakes ecosystem or a culturally vibrant, sustainable Southeast Michigan, let’s work together to create lasting change.
