About Us
The purpose of the Center for Inquiry | Michigan is to promote and defend reason, science, and freedom of inquiry in all areas of human endeavor. The Center for Inquiry is a transnational nonpartisan, nonprofit 501©(3) organization that encourages evidence-based inquiry into science, pseudoscience, medicine and health, religion, ethics, secularism, and society. The Center for Inquiry is not affiliated with, nor does it promote, any political party or political ideology.
Through education, research, publishing, and social services, it seeks to present affirmative alternatives based on scientific naturalism. The Center is also interested in providing rational ethical alternatives to the reigning paranormal and religious systems of belief, and in developing communities where like-minded individuals can meet and share experiences.
History
CFI Michigan was originally formed as the Freethought Association of West Michigan in 1997 by Jeff Seaver, Don Hansen, and Charles Leedy. Originally an informal group of fewer than a dozen members, our membership has since grown to over 400 freethinkers with attendance ranging from 40-190 at featured events.
Originally, meetings were held at the home of Don Hansen. As we continued to grow, and outgrow locations, we met at Schuler Books, Urban Institute for Contemporary Arts, Wyoming Public Library, Grand Rapids Community College, Yankee-Clipper Library, and our present location at the Women’s City Club.
In September of 2007 the Freethought Association merged with the Center for Inquiry to become Center for Inquiry | Michigan.
CFI Michigan now has chapters in West Michigan, Southeast Michigan, and on campus at Aquinas College, Grand Valley State University, and Michigan State University.
Our funding comes from Friend of the Center memberships and tax-deductible donations from supporters like you.
Freethinker of the Year Award
The Annual Freethinker of the Year Award is presented to an individual who has made a significant contribution to freethought.
- 2007 Recipient — Charles LaRue
- 2006 Recipient — Gregory Forbes
- 2005 Recipient — Jason Pittman
- 2003 Recipient — Don Hansen
Staff
- , Executive Director
- , Assistant Director
Board of Directors
- , Chair
- , Vice Chair
- , Secretary
- Treasurer – Position needs to be filled
