NEW BUFFALO — The Pokagon Fund announced the selection of Deborah Hall-Kayler of Harbert, Michigan, as the newest member of its board of directors earlier this month.
“On behalf of The Pokagon Fund, we welcome Deborah’s fresh perspective and professional experience on our current grant-making focus of education and poverty reduction,” said Chuck Heit, vice chair of the Pokagon Fund. “We are confident that Deborah will be a positive resource and influence in the community, bringing new energy and additional expertise to our Board.”
After purchasing a second home in Harbor Country in 2005, Hall-Kayler and her husband permanently relocated to Harbert in 2015.
Since then, she has become involved with various nonprofit organizations including Meals on Wheels of Southwestern Michigan/Senior Nutrition Services and Chikaming Open Lands. Prior to relocation, Hall-Kayler made her home in Chicago where she last served as president and partner of Med Staff OnCall, a healthcare staffing firm.
“I’m delighted to have been selected to serve on The Pokagon Fund Board,” Hall-Kayler said. “Harbor Country has remained an unspoiled community with beautiful woods, parks, beaches and a diverse and interesting group of residents. I look forward to joining other like-minded people in supporting the continued growth of this vibrant and healthy year-round community.”
In addition to The Pokagon Fund, Hall-Kayler has also served as a volunteer for the National Association of Executive Recruiters, Global Alliance for Africa, Deborah’s Place and American Cancer Society.
The Pokagon Fund Board is comprised of seven directors, two of who are chosen by the governing body of the Pokagon Band of the Potawatomi, with two more chosen by the governing bodies of the City of New Buffalo and New Buffalo Township. These four representative directors make up the joint selection committee, which has authority to select three more directors. Hall-Kayler, who was the board’s unanimous choice, will serve a three-year term.
The Pokagon Fund is a nonprofit, private foundation supported by revenue from the Four Winds Casino Resort in New Buffalo. The fund’s mission is to enhance the lives of residents of southwest Michigan through the financial support of projects aimed at supporting education, alleviating poverty and community vitality.