Friendly Association for Wholehearted Service

The Heartland Foundation, originally established in 1929 as part of the Hartland Area Project, was intended to promote the social, intellectual, cultural, recreational and moral needs of every individual within the Hartland Area.

Our Founder J. Robert Crouse

Driven by a desire to give back, J. Robert Crouse, a recently retired businessman, embarked on an ambitious project in 1928. Partnering with educators and sociologists, he envisioned the Hartland Area Project: a unique initiative aimed at enriching the lives of his hometown community.

In 1888, John B moves family to Cleveland due to business interests in the Cleveland Carbon Company. John Robert graduates in 1893 from Cleveland Central High School.

Travels back to Michigan for burial of his mother Betsey in Hartland Cemetery that same year. Crouse attends University of Michigan and graduates in 1897.

john robert crouse reading in chiar

John Robert joins his father and uncle, Henry A. Tremaine, in a harmonious business relationship.

Crouse begins as a lamp salesman for the Fostoria Incandescent Lamp Company.

Promoted to vice president of the firm in two years. In 1901, the three create the National Electric Lamp Association (NELA PARK)

“I see before us great opportunity, but each must do his part.”

Hartland Area Project

Vision

Crouse started the Hartland Area Project with an original grant of $50,000 to be administered by the Hartland Foundation and the Hartland Consolidated Schools Foundation.

Furthermore, the project was established “to make available to this group, with generous adequacy, all the creative and constructive social and educational influence, to the end of more rapidly and effectively evolving a richer and more abundant individual and community life.

But his operations taken together are so insignificant, a little chipping, baking, patching, and washing, that in an impression so grand as that of the world on the human mind, they do not vary the result.

It is not enough just to think about our community. In order to keep Mr. Crouse’s vision alive we need to become involved. We need to share our time, talents and financial resources with our community. It is this sharing and giving that not only enriches us, but enriches the Hartland community.

Join our Team

Unveiling Our Mission and Community Heritage

Dive deeper into our mission and the rich history that has shaped our community.

Support Our Mission

By making a donation today, you’re not just giving financial support – you’re investing in the future of the Hartland Area and helping to create a brighter tomorrow for generations to come. Every contribution, no matter the size, makes a difference and is deeply appreciated. Thank you for your generosity and for being a valued supporter of the Heartland Foundation.