b'The First 10 YearsMy parents were philanthropic all their lives. My fatherthoughtful, impactful conversations about the issues2009-2019encouraged philanthropy in all his circles, includingthat challenge us most. In this way, we have become a friends, business associates, and his company, Erbvital resource to our community, which means we can Lumber. Through their commitment to others, I wasadvocate convincingly for those who need it. raised knowing the importance of supporting the arts,We have also learned that the issues our communities the environment, and our community. face are more urgent than ever before. We must not stop My parents were incredibly passionate and immenselynow. The original priorities set out by my parents still generous with their time, expertise, and resources. Theyguide us, yet we realize that there are more challenges immersed themselves in the arts, with my fathers lovenow than ever before.of jazz, and their combined love of theater and otherThank you, to all those who have supported our efforts, art forms. Both were fervent about the Great Lakes,offered wise counsel, and partnered with us along the especially water quality and environmental concerns.way. We especially thank our grantees, who are doing My mothers wish was to ensure that her grandchildrensthe hard work in our communities to deliver change.grandchildren would be able to swim in the clean waters of the Great Lakes. Long before it was widelyThis annual report highlights some of our recent practiced, my mother adopted a healthy lifestyle byaccomplishments, reviews our grant history, and takes a supporting organic farming and practicing sustainablepowerful look at our future. As you will learn in Part 2 efforts at home. of this report, we are well prepared for the next five years In 2009, the Fred A. and Barbara M. Erb Familyand beyond.Foundation made its first grants. Its hard to believe thatWe are pleased to be on this journey with all of youweve surpassed the 10-year milestone. Im proud of alland look forward to the success we will share in the we have accomplished in this first decade.coming years. Over the past 10 years, we have learned a tremendousWith gratitude, amount, and we now see how our role has expanded beyond that of funder to include thought leader. This is possible because our collaborative efforts haveJohn M. Erb, Chairman and CEOcreated natural bridges for convening experts to have 4'