Michael A. DeHaven, CPA, winner of the 2017 Legacy Award

WEST CHESTER » Each year, the Chester County Community Foundation looks for outstanding Chester County citizens who have made a notable effort to improve the communities where they live, work and play. Michael DeHaven, CPA, is one such citizen, and the Community Foundation is honored to recognize him as this year’s Door Opener Award winner.

The Door Opener Award recognizes a professional advisor who takes the initiative to bring legacy philanthropy options to the attention of their clients for consideration. DeHaven played a significant role in the Latoff Committee’s decision to consider the Community Foundation as a vehicle for its philanthropy.

DeHaven is a shareholder with Rainer & Co., with offices in Newton Square and West Chester. Joining Rainer & Co. in 1994, Mr. DeHaven was made a shareholder in 2004. He serves as Chair of the firm’s employee benefit plan division.

Amidst his professional and family commitments, DeHaven continues to make time for community volunteerism. Prior to serving as a Board member at the Community Foundation, he served as Chair of the Board of the Chester County Chamber of Business and Industry, a board member of the Chester County Chamber Foundation, and the Central and Western Chester County Industrial Development Authority.

DeHaven sees this investment of time as completely worthwhile. “Community engagement is vitally important to me, for myself, my family and my business,” he says. “We all have vested interest in the success of our community. I believe it’s important to step in and help out, and give time, talent and treasure. It’s a winning combination.”

DeHaven and other award recipients will be honored at this year’s Chester County Community Foundation Legacy Awards Celebration & Annual Meeting on Monday, Oct. 23, at Uptown! Knauer Performing Arts Center. To commemorate our honorees, send a contribution check to CCCC, 28 W. Market St., West Chester, PA 19382. Contribution are allocated to their respective charitable funds at the Community Foundation or our Fund for Chester County.

Located in downtown West Chester, the Community Foundation connects people who care with causes that matter, so their philanthropy makes a difference now and forever. The Community Foundation is entrusted with nearly 400 charitable funds. Each represents ordinary people who have made extraordinary commitments to our community. For more information, visit www.chescocf.org or call (610) 696-8211.