Why We Give

There are many ways to support Van Andel Institute, and even more reasons to do so. You might be someone who wants to help defeat cancer through research that could translate into diagnostic tools and therapies. Or you may want to support advances against other diseases this research branches into (e.g., Parkinson disease, osteoporosis, diabetes, cardiovascular disease). Perhaps you are passionate about science education and want to help fund programs that span from elementary education to professional development.

Below are words from some of our many supporters about what Van Andel Institute means to them.

"There are many good causes to give to, and it is impossible to support all of them in a meaningful way. Thus, we focus our giving on Healthcare and Education. Van Andel Institute fits perfectly into both areas. This is very appealing to us." - Dave and Karen Custer, Custer Workplace Interiors

"I've known classmates and friends' parents who have struggled or died from cancer. Through Hope College's Dance Marathon, I'm acquainted with children who have struggled with leukemia. I give to Van Andel Institute because I know that the research that is being done there makes a difference in people's lives - people I know." - Eric Jones, Ph.D. student, Purdue

"Hope is the most special gift we can give to the people around us, in our close circles, our neighborhoods, and our world. And believe me when I say there is a lot of hope being generated at Van Andel Institute. That is why Fifth Third Bank is proud to be title sponsor of the Van Andel Institute Celebration of Hope for the seventh year in a row. As the bank of the community, Fifth Third Bank donates millions of dollars each year to enrich the lives of people in the communities we serve. Unfortunately, cancer and Parkinson disease touch so many people in our communities. We view Van Andel Institute as a critical link in connecting our dollars to community needs." - Michelle Van Dyke, Regional President, Fifth Third Bank Michigan and President and CEO, Fifth Third Bank Western Michigan

"What a time this is for Grand Rapids...new and improved medical facilities, a new medical school, a focus on life sciences...and right at the heart of all of this is Van Andel Institute. The city is experiencing a complete transformation." - Peter and Joan Secchia

"People often say to me, 'We want to invest our estate gifts in organizations we know will remain strong long after we pass away. To us, strong endowments equate to a strong future.' When I hear comments like that, I think of Van Andel Institute." - Dirk Hoffius, Estate Planning Attorney, Varnum, Riddering, Schmidt and Howlett