Dick DeVos is a successful businessman and philanthropist from Grand Rapids Michigan. He is married to the current Secretary of Education, Betsy DeVos. Dick DeVos originally amassed his wealth as the head of the Amway company from 1993 until 2002 when he took over the company after his father. Dick DeVos and his wife have used their wealth and influence to excite change within the local and national economy and create beneficial construction and business projects such as the Grand Rapids airport and community outreach programs that have positively affected many residents in the Grand Rapids area and beyond.

 

A Champion of Worthwhile Causes

 

 

Some of the most notable causes Dick DeVos has contributed to over the years include education reform, health and human services, churches, and the arts. From 1989 until 2015, Dick DeVos and his wife have donated over 138 million to these causes.

 

An example of the difference they have made can be seen with their vast contribution, totaling over $12 million, to the Spectrum Health System children’s hospital. Dick DeVos also serves as the Chairman of the board for Spectrum to further ensure it’s growth and success. As a result of these contributions, individuals can not only seek top-quality care for children, but they can also stay at the facility to help reduce medical expenses and make the process of recovering treatment easier.

 

Education Reform

 

 

Perhaps the most talked-about cause he has championed along with his wife is education reform. Their ultimate goal if for impoverished families to be able to send their children to top-performing schools so they have the same opportunities other children from more affluent families have when it comes to education. One of the methods Dick DeVos has championed was school vouchers which would rely on tax funding. Initially, the proposed program was rejected via voting in 2000. It was many years later that the concept was finally realized and several districts around the country eventually incorporated some form of a school voucher program.

 

Dick DeVos has dedicated his professional career to using his influence, fortune, and talents to promote worthy causes and expand the potential within institutions and business ventures across many different markets. He and his wife are a champion for the average individual and work to ensure that they leave a positive impact on all of their areas of interest.