In the heart of East Lansing, the Izzo family’s commitment to service and community is woven deeply into the fabric of daily life. At the helm are Tom and Lupe Izzo, whose unwavering dedication to their hometown and
its residents has left an indelible mark on the landscape of philanthropy.

In 2019, Lupe saw an opportunity to channel her generosity into positive action. Teaming up with Playmakers, she spearheaded the inaugural Izzo Legacy 5K Run/Walk/Roll event, aiming to unite the community and support local charities that have long been pillars of strength in the Lansing area. Their vision has become an annual tradition, drawing participants from all walks of life. Fast forward to 2024, the event boasts over 5,000 participants, making it the largest 5K event in mid-Michigan.

Yet, for the Izzo family, philanthropy is not merely an event but a way of life. In 2019, they solidified their commitment to community welfare by establishing the Izzo Legacy Fund, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. The Izzo Legacy was envisioned as a conduit to empower individuals to help organizations effect meaningful change in the community. Their dedication to the cause, coupled with outstanding support from sponsors,
donors, and volunteers, has seen the initiative flourish, resulting in nearly $700,000 raised for charity partners
since its inception.

For Lupe, the creation of the Izzo Legacy represents the culmination of a lifelong journey rooted in the values of hard work, family, and community. “Tom and I have always believed in the importance of giving back to the community that has given us so much,” she remarked. “The Izzo Legacy provides us with an opportunity to formalize our commitment to making a difference and to inspire others to join us in this noble pursuit.”