FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE | February 17, 2025
CONTACT: J.J. Lewis, CEO | (517) 618-1874
Pinckney, MI – North Star Reach, the ninth U.S. residential camp in the SeriousFun Children’s Network founded by actor and philanthropist Paul Newman, is thrilled to announce that The Ted and Jane Von Voigtlander Foundation has pledged a generous $600,000 matching grant to help the camp meet its mission of providing free transformative camp experiences for children with serious health challenges and their families. This incredible contribution will be matched dollar-for-dollar and will allow North Star Reach to expand its programming, enabling even more children to experience the magic of camp.
“We are deeply grateful to Gwen Haggerty-Bearden, Steven Bearden, and The Ted and Jane Von Voigtlander Foundation for their incredible generosity and ongoing support of North Star Reach,” said Sheri Mark, Board Chair of North Star Reach. “Their trust, friendship, and commitment to our mission are truly inspiring. On behalf of the entire Board and all the families we serve, we thank them for their partnership. This matching grant will make a lasting impact on so many children and families, and we are honored to have such dedicated supporters as part of our community.”
The Ted and Jane Von Voigtlander Foundation, long-time supporters of the camp, expressed their continued belief in the vision and leadership at North Star Reach, noting the organization’s inspiring progress, particularly in the last two years.
“Seeing the camp’s growth and the impact it has had on families over the years has been an absolute joy for us,” shared Gwen Haggerty-Bearden and Steven Bearden. “We know the magic that happens at North Star Reach and are thrilled to extend this matching gift opportunity to the community. For every dollar donated, we will match it up to $600,000, ensuring the camp can continue to grow and serve even more families in 2025 and beyond.”
As CEO of North Star Reach, J.J. Lewis highlighted the significance of the matching grant and how it will allow the camp to offer even more programs and services in the years ahead.
“We are deeply grateful to Gwen, Steven, and The Ted and Jane Von Voigtlander Foundation for this incredible gift,” said Lewis. “Thanks to their generosity, we are able to double the impact of every donation made to North Star Reach. We invite our entire community to join us in making the most of this matching opportunity and help bring more children and families to camp in 2025. Together, we can create life-long memories, lasting friendships, and an unparalleled sense of belonging.”
North Star Reach is inviting everyone to take part in this special matching gift opportunity to help meet the generous $600,000 matching grant. Donations can be made online or by contacting J.J. Lewis at (517) 618-1874 or via email at jj@northstarreach.org.
