Planned gift establishes the Lee G. and K. Joanna Schwenk Fund for Kalamazoo County 4-H
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EmailThe Lee G. and K. Joanna Schwenk Fund for Kalamazoo County 4-H, a permanent endowment, was recently established through a charitable gift annuity from the estate of Lee G. and Katherine “Joanna” Schwenk.
The Michigan 4-H Foundation is pleased to announce the establishment of the Lee G. and K. Joanna Schwenk Fund for Kalamazoo County 4-H, a permanent endowment created through a charitable gift annuity from the estate of Lee G. and Katherine “Joanna” Schwenk. The Schwenks established the charitable gift annuity in 1996, designating the Michigan 4-H Foundation as the annuity’s remainder beneficiary, with the intent to create an endowed fund that would support Kalamazoo County 4-H for generations to come. Lee passed away in 2011, and with the passing of Joanna in 2025, the endowment was established upon receipt of their gift.
“The Schwenks’ legacy will impact the lives of generations of young people, continuing the spirit of service and encouragement that defined their lives,” said Abbey Miller, Michigan 4-H Foundation director. “We are so grateful for their thoughtfulness and forward-looking philanthropy.”
A lasting gift to Kalamazoo County 4-H
A charitable gift annuity is a planned giving tool in which a donor makes a charitable contribution and, in return, receives fixed lifetime income payments. Upon the donor’s passing, the remaining value of the annuity goes to the designated charity—in this case, the Michigan 4-H Foundation—creating a meaningful and lasting legacy.
Through the Schwenks’ thoughtful planning nearly three decades ago, this endowment will provide annual support for Kalamazoo County 4-H programs, activities and learning experiences, as well as a postsecondary scholarship for Kalamazoo County 4-H members pursuing college or technical education. This new scholarship will be available in the 2026-27 year. Youth wishing to apply for this scholarship should contact Veronica Bolhuis, Michigan State University Extension’s Kalamazoo County 4-H program coordinator.
A legacy of leadership and service
For more than 41 years, Joanna Schwenk was a beloved and influential Kalamazoo County 4-H leader. She founded the first 4-H club in Portage, the Portage Pioneers 4-H Club, and became known for her passion for working with young people. Her commitment to youth and community earned recognition at both the local and state levels.
Beyond 4-H, Joanna generously shared her time with multiple organizations. She volunteered with the Red Cross and spent countless hours rocking babies and comforting children on the pediatric floor at Bronson Hospital. In 1985, she was honored as Kalamazoo County Homemaker of the Year.
Lee Schwenk, who was married to Joanna for 63 years, also lived a life of service and dedication. After graduating from Colon High School, he completed his degree at Western Michigan University and later studied at Indiana University. During World War II, he served for three years in the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, contributing to mapping efforts in Korea.
Lee went on to build a 40-year-career with Fidelity Federal Savings and Loan, working his way from teller to executive vice president before retiring in 1991. He enjoyed gardening, golf and travel, and volunteered his time with the Lions Club, SCORE, and 4-H programs.
“The Schwenks’ enduring commitment to youth, community and lifelong learning is now reflected in this endowed fund. Their generosity ensures that Kalamazoo County 4-H youth will continue to benefit from scholarships, leadership experiences and high-quality programming—both today and far into the future,” Miller said.
To learn more about giving to the Michigan 4-H Foundation, visit www.mi4hfdtn.org or contact Abbey Miller at abmiller@msu.edu.
