Here at the Community Foundation of Greater Fort Wayne we rely on our donors to keep grants flowing out the door! I had the opportunity to enjoy a boat ride with one of our incredible donors, Dr. Bleeke. Besides getting some incredible riverfront views of Fort Wayne (check out that amazing shot of the Ferris wheel!), I also hoped to gain some insight into the mind of a lifelong philanthropist. Here’s what I learned:
What in your life inspired you to become a donor?
As Dr. Bleeke grew up in Fort Wayne, he noticed that there were always people in need. He wasn’t sure what to do about it as a child, but after graduating college, his mentors in dentistry inspired him to do more with his wealth than just save it. They encouraged him to work with local non-profits and leave some kind of a legacy. With the push from his mentors, Bleeke decided to sponsor scholarships for students at his old stomping grounds Northside High School.
In your opinion, which of the 3 T’s of philanthropy is the most important/beneficial?
Dr. Bleeke had a very interesting take on the 3 T’s of philanthropy. While he agrees that using your time to volunteer is very important, and using his talents as a dentist helped many people through the years, using his treasures to support the time he put in, and the talents he gained, is what made the biggest impact.
Which of your philanthropic endeavors are you most proud of?
Dr. Bleeke’s answer to this question really made me smile. He proudly said “I don’t think I have one, I just really love Fort Wayne and want to help those who need it the most each year!”
Did you feel like philanthropy was an obligation?
Dr. Bleeke’s mentors set a great example for him as a young philanthropist, so he never viewed it as an obligation. He and his wife always tried to be as generous as possible. Together, they were lifelong donors. Through the years they contributed to the philharmonic, the Embassy Theater, Evan’s Scholars, and various high school projects and scholarships.
Where did you find the connect between dentistry and philanthropy?
Dr. Bleeke started volunteering at Matthew 25 here in Fort Wayne as a dentist for those in need. He understood that the uninsured often overlook dentistry. Dr. Bleeke wanted to make it easier for the uninsured to keep their oral health in check without having to worry about the expense. This is a perfect example of Dr. Bleeke using his time, talent, and treasure to better his community!
Anything else you’d like our community to know about you or being a donor?
Dr. Bleeke is clearly a huge fan of our community. His closing words were heartwarming to say the least. “I guess I’d just really like Fort Wayne to know that I’ve loved being a part of this community. As I’m nearing the last years of my life, I’ve been reflecting on my time here and remembering all the good times I’ve had. Thank you Fort Wayne for giving me the best life I could’ve had.”
Wow! What a cool guy! I sure felt inspired after talking with Dr. Bleeke and I hope you feel the same! To find out more about how to become a donor check out our website at https://cfgfw.org/become-a-donor/ways-to-give/ .