About Detroit Lake Foundation

A Community Worth Investing In

Detroit is a place where neighbors become friends, visitors become regulars, and memories bring people back year after year.

Detroit Lake Foundation brings people and resources together to care for this special place. Through community improvements, local grants, events, family activities, and lake advocacy, we work to strengthen Detroit for the people who live here and everyone who loves to visit.

Founded in 2015, DLF is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit supported by generous donors, sponsors, volunteers, and community partners.

Explore Our Accomplishments | Get Involved

A rushing river flows between rocky banks in a mountainous forest landscape during daytime, with trees on either side and a clear blue sky overhead.

What We Do

Invest in Our Community

We support projects and programs that improve daily life and create a welcoming community. Our work includes beautification, community communication, and grants that benefit Detroit, Idanha, and the surrounding Santiam Canyon.

From seasonal flowers and American flags to investments in youth programs and healthcare access, each contribution helps meet a local need.

Bring People Together

Our events give residents and visitors reasons to gather, celebrate, and spend time in Detroit.

The Detroit Lake Fishing Derby, Fireworks Over the Lake, Santiam Music Festival, summer concerts, and seasonal celebrations create shared experiences while bringing activity to local shops, restaurants, lodging, and recreation businesses.

Sponsors, volunteers, and community partners make these traditions possible.

Encourage Exploration

Detroit Rocks and Detroit Frogs invite families to get outside, follow clues, and discover something special.

These collectible treasures encourage visitors and residents to explore the area, make memories, and enjoy the simple fun of finding something unexpected.

Advocate for Detroit Lake

The future of Detroit is closely connected to the health and accessibility of Detroit Lake.

Through our Lake Level Committee and Save Detroit Lake efforts, we share information, raise community concerns, and work with regional partners and decision-makers. We advocate for lake management that considers drinking water, recreation, local businesses, and the communities that depend on this resource.

Learn About Save Detroit Lake

Community Support in Action

Every project begins with people willing to help. Here are a few examples of what that support has made possible:

A Place to Gather

Working with the Santiam Rebuild Coalition, SEDCOR, and generous contributors, we helped complete the Detroit Lake Community Center and City Hall, restoring space for city services and community activities.

Better Community Communication

DLF contributed $40,000 toward the Main Street community information sign, helping residents and visitors stay informed about events, public notices, and local updates.

Opportunities for Students

A $4,800 grant to Santiam Junior/Senior High School’s music program supported instruments, performance equipment, and audio production opportunities.

Support for Local Healthcare

A $5,000 grant to Santiam Hospital & Clinics supported continued access to healthcare in the Santiam Canyon.

View Our Accomplishments | Read Our 2026 Annual Report

Board Of Directors

Keith Owen

A lifelong Oregonian and owner of Owen Construction, Keith brings decades of construction experience and a deep personal connection to Detroit. His family has enjoyed camping, boating, and year-round adventures here for generations. After experiencing the 2020 wildfires firsthand, Keith committed himself to helping the community rebuild. He helped organize the Santiam Rebuild Coalition and remains dedicated to strengthening Detroit through community projects, partnerships, and service.

President

Elizabeth Smith

A part-time Detroit resident and owner of Elizabeth Smith Mortgage Group, Elizabeth brings a strong commitment to people and community to her role. Her family has spent years visiting and living in Detroit, building a lasting connection to the area. Passionate about its recovery following the 2020 wildfires, she is dedicated to helping restore Detroit’s vitality and supporting a welcoming community where residents, businesses, and visitors can thrive.

Vice President | Secretary

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Treasurer

Margie Talley

A semi-retired accounting professional, Margie brings extensive experience in accounting, cost accounting and auditing across agriculture, construction, and nonprofit organizations. Her background includes service with the National Fibromyalgia Research Association and Sweet Adelines International. A Salem resident and proud grandmother and great-grandmother, she values the connections that bring people together. Margie considers serving Detroit Lake Foundation a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to help build a lasting legacy through community cooperation and shared purpose.