We haven’t hesitated over the years to use this space to support community projects and programs that The Mining Journal’s Editorial Board has deemed worthy of support.

And although the projects and programs have varied a great deal over time, all had one thing in common: They supported the people of our community and somehow sought to improve their lot.

That’s the situation with a positive effort in Marquette County that can trace its roots to a tragedy.

Forsyth Township Fire Department Capt. Ben Lauren was killed at age 23 in the line of duty on March 13 while battling a structure fire.

It was and is a horrifying loss not only to his family and friends specifically but to the community in general.

Now, from that tragedy comes something good, the formation of a foundation in Lauren’s name that will help support students pursuing a higher education.

The Ben Lauren Memorial Foundation plans to provide educational grants for one graduating senior from Gwinn Area High School with plans of obtaining a secondary degree with a medical or engineering focus, as well as an engineering student enrolled at Northern Michigan University, according to a press release.

In addition, the foundation will provide monetary support and grants to local youth livestock and 4-H programs, local first responders, and other requested and reviewed grants to those in need.

“Ben was a special son, firefighter and helpful person to those in his community,” said Ron Lauren, father of Ben Lauren and president of Honor Holdings LLC and Investment Services.

To assist in raising money for the foundation, KC Bjorne, Honor’s representative, has partnered with local auto dealerships to donate $100 for each vehicle financed through Honor Credit Union between now and June 30 at participating dealerships, with Honor Credit Union matching all donations up to $5,000.

Want to donate to this very worthy cause? Call Honor Credit Union at 800-442-2800 or stop by an Honor Credit Union location in Marquette, Gwinn, and Negaunee. Or call 800-442-2800 or visit www.honorcu.com.

This is a great cause. We hope readers will seriously consider a donation.