Donations
Last year, we were honored to support our community through direct donations. In 2026, we expanded our impact by awarding three $2,500 scholarships to graduating seniors from Durand, Montrose, and New Lothrop Public Schools.
We’re also continuing our commitment to giving back. This December, we plan to select and donate to three new charitable organizations, supporting causes that reflect the spirit of giving, compassion, and community that Brad believed in.
Durand Area Loaves and Fishes
Local Charity
Durand Area Loaves and Fishes is a volunteer-run, 501(c)(3) nonprofit emergency food pantry serving individuals and families facing hardship in the Durand and surrounding communities. Founded in 1992 and overseen by the Durand Ministerial Association, its mission is to provide nutritious food and support to those in temporary need through locally gathered resources, while coordinating with other social service agencies to avoid duplication of aid. The pantry operates entirely on community donations and the generous efforts of volunteers who organize food drives, manage distributions, and help connect people with additional support when needed.
Gift of Life Michigan
State Charity
Gift of Life Michigan is a nonprofit, federally designated organ and tissue recovery organization based in Ann Arbor that works around the clock to facilitate organ, eye, and tissue donation throughout the state. Founded in 1971 by Michigan transplant surgeons, it serves as the vital link between donors, families, hospitals, and transplant centers, helping recover organs and tissues that save and improve many lives each year. The organization also partners with the Michigan Secretary of State to maintain and grow the Michigan Organ Donor Registry, making it easier for residents to register as donors and “honor life through donation.”
American Heart Association
National Charity
American Heart Association is a leading U.S. nonprofit organization dedicated to fighting heart disease and stroke—the nation’s top causes of death—by funding groundbreaking cardiovascular research, educating the public on heart-healthy living, and advocating for stronger public health policies. Founded in 1924 and supported by millions of volunteers and donors, the AHA works to improve heart and brain health for all through community programs, lifesaving CPR training, professional guidelines, and initiatives that address health equity and access to care.
Help us choose our 2026 charities!
2026 Scholarship Recipients
Asa Alderman
Durand High School
Asa will attend the University of Michigan to pursue a degree in engineering, with the goal of building a career in the engineering field while continuing to give back to the community he loves. Throughout high school, Asa has demonstrated a strong commitment to academics, athletics, leadership, and service. He is a member of National Honor Society, the clay target team, and Boy Scouts, and has earned both academic and athletic letters, along with recognition for National Honor Society membership and perfect attendance. His commitment to service began through Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts, where he participated in community cleanups, fundraising efforts, and local events. Through National Honor Society, Asa continued serving others by helping with school events, charity programs, tutoring, and mentoring younger students. These experiences taught him that leadership is about setting a positive example, supporting others, and being willing to give his time to make a difference. Asa plans to pursue internships and career opportunities in engineering while carrying these values of service, responsibility, and compassion into his future.
Richard Cummings
Montrose High School
Richard will attend the University of Olivet to pursue a degree in Physical Education with a minor in Athletic Training while continuing his wrestling career at the collegiate level. A dedicated three-sport athlete in football, wrestling, and baseball, Richard served as captain of his wrestling team for three years and has earned numerous athletic and academic honors, including First Team All-Conference, All-Region, Academic All-District, and four years of Academic Excellence recognition. Richard has also devoted significant time to serving his community. After 14 years in Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts, he earned the rank of Eagle Scout and held leadership positions including Senior Patrol Leader and Assistant Patrol Leader. His Eagle Scout project improved the local high school soccer complex through the installation of a large net system and construction of team benches. He has also volunteered through food distributions, community cleanups, veteran tributes, local festivals, and youth activities. Richard hopes to become a physical education teacher and coach, with a future goal of working in athletic training. He plans to continue mentoring young people and serving the community that has supported him throughout his life.
Reece Eustace
New Lothrop High School
Reece will attend Michigan State University to study Business Management and plans to pursue a career as a crop insurance agent. With a lifelong passion for agriculture, Reece hopes to combine his interest in the agricultural community with his desire to work with and help others. He has been deeply involved in FFA and 4-H, showing livestock for nine years, serving in multiple FFA officer positions, and earning honors including Michigan FFA Outstanding Junior. Reece has also served as a Junior Board member for the Shiawassee County Fair and Shiawassee County Farm Bureau, while participating in National Honor Society, Student Council, Shiawassee Scholars, and the Shiawassee Community Foundation Youth Advisory Council. His commitment to service includes volunteering with Special Olympics, food pantries, church programs, community cleanups, youth activities, and local events. Through these experiences, Reece has learned the importance of leadership, hard work, compassion, and giving others opportunities to be part of something bigger than themselves. In his future career, he hopes to become a trusted resource for farmers, helping protect their livelihoods and support the future of agriculture.
2027 Scholarship Information
The Brad Thorsby Memorial Scholarship
The Bradley Thorsby Memorial Scholarship was established to honor Brad’s memory by supporting local students as they take their next steps after graduation. This scholarship reflects a commitment to investing in the future of our community by helping students pursue higher education and career goals.
Eligibility Criteria:
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Open to 2027 graduating seniors from Durand, Montrose, and New Lothrop Public Schools
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Students must apply during their senior year
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Three scholarships are awarded annually, with one recipient selected from each school
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Each scholarship award is $2,500
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Applications must be submitted by April 1, 2027