Grays Harbor Spotlights

Grays Harbor is more than just a place, it’s a community that holds a deep sense of connection and pride. Its familiar neighborhoods and streets carry the memories of generations, and for many, returning feels like coming home. But what truly defines Grays Harbor is its people.

Ted and Liz Bruener, two long-standing members of this community, have chosen to leave a lasting legacy. By entrusting the Grays Harbor Community Foundation with a $15 million gift, they are ensuring that their support will continue to benefit local organizations for many years to come.

Throughout their lives, Ted and Liz quietly contributed to the well-being of Grays Harbor, particularly focusing on youth sports and education in the communities of Lake Quinault and Hoquiam. Their generosity, done quietly and without fanfare, made a lasting impact on the lives of young people and reflected their strong commitment to community.

Eric Potts, Executive Director of the Grays Harbor Community Foundation, commented, “The Theodore and Elizabeth Ann Bruener Endowment Fund is one of the largest gifts we’ve received in our 30-year history. Their generosity will support several local organizations, including St. Mary School, Grays Harbor College World Class Scholars Program, and the school districts of Lake Quinault and Hoquiam. The Bruener’s were particularly passionate about youth sports, with some of their fondest memories being of watching their son, ‘Mr. Ted,’ play baseball at Olympic Stadium.”

“This gift has the potential to transform local organizations and will enable us to carry forward Ted and Elizabeth’s charitable vision for many years,” Potts continued. “Thanks to donors like the Bruener’s, the Foundation now manages over $108 million in assets, strengthening our ability to serve the community.”