Please join us as we welcome Michael Haines, Kingston representative, to the DeKalb County Community Foundation Board of Directors.

Michael and his wife Lana have lived in rural Kingston for over 40 years. They have two adult children and four lovely grandchildren. He is honored to represent the Kingston Township which includes farmers, suburban commuters, and lifelong residents.

Michael came to DeKalb County in 1967 to attend Northern Illinois University (NIU). During his first few years attending NIU, he met his wife Lana and they were married. They bought their Kingston home in 1980 and have lived there ever since. Michael earned a master’s degree in community mental health which he used for teaching and working at the NIU Health Service and Social Science Research Institute until 2008. He continues to work as a social science consultant.

The Haines own a historical building in downtown Kingston, where they donate space for the Kingston Library which Lana manages. Near the library, they provide space for DeKalb County Community Garden plots. Michael is thankful for the friendships and mutual support that one finds in a small rural community and says, “the history of place is so meaningful to the ‘oldtimers’ and is an important foundation for moving into the future.”

Michael served for seven years on the DeKalb County Board, was president of the DeKalb County Nursing Home Foundation for many terms, and is the current treasurer for Voluntary Action Center in DeKalb.

In his free time, Michael enjoys a variety of hobbies. He is an amateur naturalist and an avid organic gardener with his wife. He is a fly fisherman, a birder, a soccer referee, plays guitar, and occasionally performs with others on the local nursing home circuit. He fancies himself as a gourmet chef and with friends, makes a nice assortment of red wines.

“I look forward to participating in the challenge of working to continue to ensure DeKalb County as a safe and healthy place to live. I am excited to be part of the Community Foundation; a resource that respects, includes, and supports everyone. I believe a diverse community benefits all.” – Michael Haines