Todd and Julie Schrader embody the heart of a small-town community — approachable, warm, and invested in the well-being of their neighbors. Whether sharing laughter with friends by the water or quietly supporting local initiatives, this quintessential “boy and girl next door” couple has given big to Mason County throughout their lives together. Todd, a Ludington High School graduate from the class of ‘83, grew up in Ludington and now leads Hardman Construction. Julie, an event planner originally from suburban Detroit, has transformed from newcomer to passionate community advocate over their 30-year marriage.
When the couple learned about the Campaign for Mason County — an ambitious effort to raise $5 million and triple the Community Foundation’s grant-making capacity — the Schraders were among the first to contribute, with a gift from their donor-advised family fund created nearly 20 years ago. They add to their fund annually and use it to assist a host of nonprofits.
“We’re enthusiastic ambassadors for the Community Foundation,” Julie explains. “It’s the premier entity that partners donors with nonprofits.” They truly believe the Foundation is a blessing to our community. “We’re so fortunate that this asset benefits the Ludington area now and will continue to do so for generations to come.”
In her younger years, Julie found aspects of Ludington’s small-town life challenging; however, her perspective shifted as she began to better appreciate the uncommon treasures found here, including the vast natural resources and exceptionally heartwarming ways residents continuously support one another.
“Julie has the most genuine heart for others,” shares Todd. “I’ve watched her walk beside so many people and help them in deep, meaningful ways as they face their toughest challenges. She doesn’t look away.”
Julie founded the “Love Ludington” initiative in 2013 as a community pride endeavor and subsequently created the “Love Ludington Fund” that spearheads a wide range of projects and activities. She’s served on the Community Foundation board as well as other local boards and committees, and she volunteers in several community efforts.
Todd, the CEO of Hardman Construction, is known for his generosity and fun-loving nature, bringing his own special energy to their partnership. As Julie describes, “He adds a bit of zest and magic when he’s around. Life is just happier and more fun in his presence.” Hardman Construction, responsible for projects on a national scale, has also been instrumental in developing local infrastructure, playing a key role in projects like the Waterfront Park, Harbor View Marina, the Splash Pad, the Skate Park, and many others that have transformed Ludington’s landscape and community spaces. Todd, too, volunteers his time in a number of local organizations.
The Schraders have been intentional about instilling a culture of giving in their now-grown children, Emily and Ryan. The couple sends them a letter each year about family charitable giving during the holiday season. They encourage Emily and Ryan to select local nonprofits in their respective communities for family donations. “They know that serving and giving is something we should all do on a regular basis, through both time and money,” Julie explains. She believes that learning the value of giving is most effective when started early, referencing research that suggests the high school years – particularly around ages 15-16 — are a critical time for developing philanthropic values.
It’s not just their own kids that the Schraders hope will embrace giving back. Every year, they send a letter to the graduating seniors in the area – an inspiring message as they head out to pursue their dreams. But it’s more than just a “good luck” note. They use it to remind these young adults about where they come from, how Mason County will always be a part of them, and how they can stay connected to their roots no matter where they end up. It’s a clever way to nudge them towards thinking about giving back as they begin their adult lives. Todd and Julie understand that these kids are at a turning point, and by planting the seed of community involvement early on, they’re hoping to help cultivate a new crop of givers in Mason County.
The Schraders’ philanthropic philosophy is based on trust and forward-thinking. To that end, the unrestricted nature of their donation to the Campaign for Mason County is particularly significant. By contributing funds that can be flexibly used, Todd and Julie are empowering the Foundation to address emerging community needs and opportunities – whether current challenges like food insecurity or future issues yet to be identified.
Much like the monumental and enduring structures Todd helps create with Hardman Construction, the Schraders are building a legacy of generosity. Their gift to the campaign illustrates their belief in Mason County and their commitment to helping the community thrive. “We’re providing funds for the next generation of leaders to do what they believe is best for our community,” Julie says. “We may not know exactly what challenges lie ahead, but we’re creating a resource that will adapt and respond to whatever our community needs in the future.”
To contribute or learn more about the Campaign for Mason County and how your gift can make a difference, please visit https://mason-foundation.org/the-campaign-for-mason-county/ or contact Andrea Large at alarge@cffmc.org or 231.845.0326. Together, we can build a legacy of giving that will benefit generations to come!