I am humbled and thrilled to have joined the Michigan Municipal League Foundation as president.

For the last 20+ years, including as the founder of CityLove Collaborative, VP at the Quicken Loans Community Fund, Program Officer at the Kresge Foundation, and Co-Founder of CreateHere, I have been privileged to build and implement bold, entrepreneurial and innovative nonprofit and philanthropic work that improves the quality of life for culturally and economically diverse community residents, nurtures place-based opportunity, and drives equitable impact.

I am drawn to the potential of the MML Foundation to be a bold force for good in our state. Our foundation has an exciting future ahead as we ramp up our work with municipalities to create vibrant places that improve the human experience; support communities in offering incredible quality of life opportunities, and places where more people can create, be inspired and successful.

Many places are facing major demographic, economic, cultural, and environmental challenges and Michigan is no exception. Michigan, with its abundance of natural resources, however, can be a critical model in determining how places adapt to these changes. Our state will embrace the challenge with the support of MML and now, with the increased support of the MML Foundation. I am beyond excited about the potential of the MML Foundation and invite you to join us for the next leg of this engaging and inspiring journey.

I also want to acknowledge the persistent leadership and vision of MML President Dan Gilmartin, the accomplishments of the Foundation’s past president, Gisgie Dávila Gendreau, Foundation board members, staff, friends, and partners who have created and carried the MML Foundation for nearly 30 years. I am thrilled to be joining a fantastic team and inspiring group of past and present League members whose passion serves as an inspiration for the foundation each day.

All the best,

Helen Davis Johnson
President, Michigan Municipal League Foundation