We honor the memory of Lena Meijer, whose gifts were compassion, love and caring. 

Our community has benefitted greatly from generosity of the Meijer family. In 2006, Grand Rapids Community Foundation awarded Fred and Lena Meijer with the Jack Chaille Community Philanthropy Award. The award is given to an individual or couple who embodies the strength of philanthropy.  

At that time, Diana Sieger, president of the Community Foundation, said of the Meijers: "We know that they care about preserving Michigan's natural beauty and history. Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park is certainly a gem of our community... The Lena Meijer Children's Garden and Michigan Farm Garden acknowledge Lena's love of children, especially her grandchildren, and her upbringing on a farm in Greenville." Diana went on to say, "Their generosity has strengthened our whole community."(Read the entire feature on Fred and Lena from the 2006 winter issue of our quarterly magazine). Among the philanthropic interests close to Fred and Lena's hearts were also historical preservation and the performing arts.

Another significant area of attention for the Meijers was supporting students through education focused philanthropy. Their legacy lives on in many ways, including the Fred & Lena Meijer Scholarship, which provides scholarships to Meijer team members and their children. Since being established in 1975, this scholarship fund has fueled the future of many students.  

We extend our deepest sympathy to the family during this time. To read more about the life and legacy of Lena Meijer, here is a website from Meijer celebrating her life: https://www.rememberinglenamei...

Fred and Lena Meijer in 2006 being honored as Jack Chaille Community Philanthropist Award Recipients