John W And Margaret G Bertsch Charitable
This organization is a private foundation dedicated to supporting a variety of charitable causes through its general charitable fund. Its mission focuses on enhancing community welfare by funding organizations that provide human services, food assistance, and community support. The foundation primarily serves local organizations, with a significant emphasis on those based in Michigan. It demonstrates a commitment to addressing issues such as food insecurity and supporting faith-based initiatives, reflecting its values of community engagement and social responsibility.
Source: Zeffy Agent · Mar 2026
Ideal Applicant
Small to mid-size community organizations, hospitals, food programs, faith-based groups, or colleges with an established presence in Michigan (especially Grand Rapids area) seeking general operating support in the typical $3k–$10k range and with some existing local relationship or introduction.
Good Fit
- • Organization operates in Michigan or serves communities there (foundation state).
- • Has an introduction or existing relationship with a current or prior grantee or a foundation contact.
- • Seeks general charitable or operating support at amounts similar to past grants (~$6k–$10k).
- • Is a community service provider, hospital, food program, church, or small college—types that appear in the recipient list.
Geography
Giving is heavily concentrated in one state: about 82% of 2023 dollars went to Michigan, with a few smaller out-of-state awards across three other states.
Recipient Variety
The latest year shows a dozen distinct recipients across multiple nonprofit types (hospitals, food programs, churches, college), and seven returning grantees indicate some continuity without exclusive concentration on a tiny set.
New Applicants
Direct evidence of turnover exists (five new grantees in 2023), but the foundation is recorded as funding only preselected organizations and there is no public website or clear submission route, so unfamiliar applicants are unlikely to access funding without introductions.
Source: Zeffy Agent · Mar 2026
