Mike Griffith has lived and worked in Bellevue his entire life. He grew up attending our local schools, graduated from the University of Washington and started his career in Bellevue. Mike first became involved with Bellevue LifeSpring through making a donation to Thrift Culture and participating in our Holiday Adopt-A-Family™ program.
He is passionate about helping local families succeed and invests his money and time into fighting poverty in his community. “Bellevue is a wonderful place to live and work,” shared Mike. “I have personally benefitted immensely from living here and want that opportunity to continue for others.”
Mike is one of the many investors whose passion and generosity make Bellevue LifeSpring’s work possible. We asked him to share why he’s inspired to support Bellevue kids.
What about Bellevue LifeSpring’s mission is meaningful to you?
“I love that Bellevue LifeSpring helps local kids and families here in Bellevue. Most people are unaware of all of the intense poverty that exists here on the Eastside.”
Why do you think Bellevue LifeSpring’s work is essential for Bellevue’s low-income children and families, especially during a crisis like COVID-19?
“The poverty in Bellevue is a worsening problem that most people are unaware of. COVID-19 has magnified what was already an unmet need here. The pandemic has made it much more difficult for lower-income residents to feed their children and maintain work. Many of Bellevue LifeSpring’s clients are not eligible for government help and their services are essential to keeping these families stable.”
What does community mean to you?
“Community means neighbors helping neighbors. It is being aware of the families in our community that do not have the support that I and others have had. If we lend a helping hand to these families, they can achieve great things for Bellevue.”
You have been very generous with your investments this year. What motivated you to give big for Bellevue kids?
“After my wife was sick with cancer, it gave me a wake–up call about what life is about and the importance of thinking about other people besides yourself. I began to try and accumulate what I like to call karma credits by doing good things every day.
There are a lot of people that face a lot of struggles in life. I make it a priority to get outside of myself and do things that help people. I’m aghast that here we are in Bellevue with all this money and we still have this level of poverty. You can’t just sit around and complain about it. You have to try to do your part. “
What do you hope Bellevue LifeSpring can achieve in the future?
“Bellevue LifeSpring’s history here is unique and inspirational. I would like to see their funding continue to grow to meet the future need of our communities’ low-income children.”
What would you tell someone who is thinking about donating or volunteering with Bellevue LifeSpring?
“The answer to this question is so easy to answer – do it! It sounds corny, but it’s because of the trust I have in the Bellevue LifeSpring team. They are thoughtful and smart people who are working hard to help our low-income community members. The time and money you invest go right to those who need it the most.”
Thank you, Mike, for your commitment to Bellevue kids! Join Mike and learn how you can make a difference with Bellevue LifeSpring here.
