A legacy of service continues

The JSJ family of businesses makes durable goods, but they've also made a durable and lasting impression on the community - through donations of time, ideas and resources that aren't always measured with dollar signs.

Marie Havenga

Mar 21, 2012

Tuesday night, the Greater Ottawa County United Way bestowed upon JSJ its most prestigious annual recognition for philanthropy, volunteerism and community engagement – the G.W. Haworth Strength of the Community Award.

“The Jacobson, Sherwood and Johnson families have carried on a family tradition of building the community where they have prospered,” said Louann Werksma, director of development for the local United Way.

Although JSJ leaders and employees contribute many volunteer hours and funds to the United Way, including the annual Day of Caring, Werksma said Tuesday's award was not limited to the family company's efforts there.

“There are so many things they've been involved in over the years that they've touched in quiet ways,” Werksma said.

JSJ and its businesses funded the Coast Guard Festival fireworks in 2008 and 2009, contributed to the Grand Haven Lighthouse Connector Park, the Musical Fountain, Spring Lake and Loutit district libraries, and designed and donated the Brass River and sundial at the foot of Washington Avenue in downtown Grand Haven. They've adopted the Hemlock Crossings county park and pitched in on many Grand Haven High School projects — including the pendulum, Hall of Fame video boards and the athletic field brass lettering.

Many company officials and employees also volunteer their time on committees and boards.

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