The Naras practice what they call “catalyst philanthrophy”: donating resources that will multiply by attracting additional funds. “We prefer to leverage our generosity so that we provide what we call ‘catalyst assets’ to groups or charities that can build upon our foundation funds to make really big things happen,” Bob said.

Robert (Bob) and Ruth Nara donated $50,000 for expansion of the Michigan Tech Trails. The University purchased land adjoining the Nara Nature Park in 2006, with a long-range plan for a connected network of ski and bike trails. That’s when the Naras, local philanthropists and longtime friends of Michigan Tech, stepped in and provided the funds to connect Tech’s trails to the City of Houghton’s Nara Nature Park trails.