In a vibrant gymnasium, a large group of individuals is gathered, capturing a moment of community and collaboration. The photograph features representatives from the AMA ESD Board of Education, Pied Piper School Students and Staff, representatives from Blue Horizons, and representatives from the Community Foundation for Northeast Michigan. At the center, several adults are holding a large check, symbolizing a significant contribution or partnership. The students, interspersed among the adults, add a youthful energy to the scene, some smiling brightly at the camera. The Pied Piper School staff, easily identifiable by their supportive presence, are seen engaging with the students and other representatives. The Blue Horizons and Community Foundation for Northeast Michigan representatives stand alongside, their participation highlighting the broad community support for the initiative. The background of the gymnasium features colorful wall panels in shades of blue, yellow, and gray, adding a dynamic backdrop to the gathering. The overall atmosphere is one of warmth, cooperation, and shared purpose, reflecting a successful collaboration between various educational and community organizations.

AMA ESD Establishes Pied Piper Legacy Fund with Founding $80,000 Gift from Blue Horizons

Justin Gluesing

September 6, 2025

The Alpena-Montmorency-Alcona Educational Service District (AMA ESD) is proud to announce the establishment of the Pied Piper Legacy Fund, created to provide support for advancing the mission of Pied Piper School. Established through the Community Foundation for Northeast Michigan, the fund is anchored by a founding gift of $80,000 from Blue Horizons.  

The Pied Piper story began in 1960 when a group of determined families and community members, united by a desire to improve services for children with special needs, opened a small two-room school on Piper Road. By 1963, Pied Piper was serving students across Alpena, Montmorency, and Alcona counties. In 1973, thanks to broad community support and significant state and local funding, the Pied Piper Opportunity Center opened.

For decades, Pied Piper has been a cornerstone for students with disabilities ages 3–26, including those who are moderately to severely cognitively impaired, severely multiply impaired, and autistic. Today, Pied Piper continues to embody the passion, advocacy, and community spirit that first inspired its founding families.

“Blue Horizons is honored to support the students of Pied Piper,” said Lorell Whitscell, Board Member of Blue Horizons. “This donation reflects our belief in the incredible work being done here and the life-changing opportunities Pied Piper provides for children and families in our region.”

AMA ESD Superintendent Justin Gluesing expressed gratitude for the donation and the establishment of the Legacy Fund. “Pied Piper School is a special place. Since its founding, the communities that make up the AMA ESD service area have provided tremendous support to Pied Piper.  We will be forever grateful to Blue Horizons for helping us launch this fund, and we look forward to growing it to benefit our students for generations to come.”

The Pied Piper Legacy Fund honors the spirit of advocacy and community that built Pied Piper over 50 years ago.   The fund can accept many kinds of gifts, including appreciated stocks, bonds, charitable gift annuities, gifts of real estate, and others. Individuals who are interested in donating can contact the AMA ESD or Pied Piper School.

“Through the Pied Piper Legacy Fund, donors can make gifts that are prudently invested and permanently dedicated to supporting Pied Piper’s mission,” said Patrick Heraghty, Executive Director of the Community Foundation for Northeast Michigan. “We’re honored to steward this fund and to partner with the AMA ESD and generous donors like Blue Horizons so students benefit now and for years to come.”