March 26 marks the 99th anniversary of the birth of the late William G. Milliken, regarded as the Michigan governor most committed to protecting Michigan’s water, air and land. Milliken passed in 2019.
For many, remembering Governor Milliken’s birthday affords the chance to reflect on the Milliken family’s legacy of public service. Governor Milliken referred to his late wife Helen as his “conscience,” and her impact on his policies and legacy encompassed support for not only the environment, but also human rights. Together, the Millikens were known for promoting civic engagement in the public sphere. This legacy lives on at FLOW, and can grow through gifts to The Helen and William G. Milliken Fund For Love of Water, which FLOW established in 2020.
FLOW’s Milliken Fund supports efforts to promote public trust rights in the Great Lakes Basin through three key programs that sustain the Milliken legacy:
- Protecting the Great Lakes and the people who depend on them by fueling FLOW’s core programs in applying the public trust doctrine to protect against the contamination and diversion of the Great Lakes and ensure access to clean drinking water for all.
- Inspiring community action by funding challenges designed to inspire widespread participation, making it possible for FLOW to match individual donations in support of selected local Great Lakes projects and programs.
- Mentoring the next generation of leaders by underwriting internships at FLOW to foster environmental policy leadership in students and young professionals.
Resources donated to this fund connect FLOW to the story of Michigan’s progress in embracing protective measures that safeguard the Great Lakes. At the same time, these gifts empower the public, through FLOW, to hold government accountable and, in turn, deepen our trust in government.
Watch our 2020 video testimonial series honoring Gov. Milliken.
For more information about the Milliken Fund, or to make a gift, please visit FLOW’s website or contact FLOW Development Director Diane Dupuis at 231-944-1568 or Diane@FLOWforWater.org. FLOW is an independent, 501(c)(3) nonprofit working in the public interest. Donations to the Milliken Fund are tax-deductible to the fullest extent provided by law.
