Three Rivers-based nonprofit Hope United received a grant award in memory of David Smith. The award was made possible by contributions made to the Sturgis Area Community Foundation throughout 2021 in Smith’s memory.
Kim Sovein (daughter of Dave Smith) and Sharon Smith (wife) present grant to Hope United Executive Director Jill Gunn.
During his life, Smith had resided in Sturgis since 1970, coming from Allegan, where he was a graduate of Allegan High School with the class of 1954. He furthered his education at Ferris State University in Big Rapids and Western Michigan University in Kalamazoo.
Nearly all of Dave's working life was involved in the automobile business. He had worked as a sales manager at Koestner General Motors dealership in Plainwell and for 50 years owned and operated Dave Smith Pontiac, Buick and GMC in Sturgis.
In honor of Smith’s lifelong career in the automobile business, grant funds will support Hope United in providing safe transportation for individuals in need.
“Dave was such a caring person and giving person,” says Sharon Smith, Smith’s wife. “He had a great love of community and we are thankful to all who gave in his memory and made this possible.”
Hope United is a network of local churches and agencies coming together to provide support, help and love to those in need in St. Joseph County. Individuals and families come to Hope United when their lives become too difficult for them to manage alone. The organization’s residential program at “Amanda’s House” provides services to women 18 years and older who find themselves in destructive life patterns from drug and alcohol addiction, sexual assault, and/or domestic violence.
Individuals who would like to provide additional support to Hope United in memory of Dave, may direct gifts to Hope United at 222 South Main Street, Three Rivers, Michigan 49093.
Through philanthropic services, strategic investments and community leadership, Sturgis Area Community Foundation helps people support the causes they care about, now and for generations to come. For more information on grants or donor services, email sacf@sturgisfoundation.org.