Mechem Family Community Fund
For Larry (L.J.) and Melanie Mechem, giving back to Madison County represents their belief in the power of community. Born and raised here, L.J. has spent his life growing businesses, supporting local nonprofits, and building community. Now, as a member of the Madison County Community Foundation board, he and Melanie have taken the next step by establishing the Mechem Family Community Fund. LJ says, “Investment in yourself and in your community is what is going to bring a better future. Everybody can play a part. It’s not so much how much you give. If you are participating, you are able to see your ideas and your dreams (for the community) have a chance.”
With deep roots in the area and nearly three decades of service on the YMCA board, L.J. has seen firsthand the difference community support can make. Melanie spent her career as a longtime science teacher at Anderson Community Schools and knows the importance of investing in young people. Together, the Mechems have shaped Anderson in more ways than one. Their family-owned business, LM Products, has grown from a local music shop into one of the world’s leading manufacturers of leather instrument straps—all from their workshop in a historic Montgomery Ward building on Meridian Street. With deep ties to music, education, and nonprofit work, their fund is a natural extension of their values.
The Mechems chose to partner with the Madison County Community Foundation because they trust in its leadership, fiscal responsibility, and vision for positive change. L.J. said he’s long been aware of the Foundation’s work and has grown increasingly confident in its impact and direction.
Their hope is to help nonprofits grow, to support causes that make a wide-reaching impact, and to inspire others to participate in shaping a stronger, more hopeful community.
