Together, we will rise from the ashes and rebuild Detroit, Oregon.
Fraud Alert
Counterfeit Checks Issued in the Detroit Lake Foundation’s Name
The Detroit Lake Foundation has learned that counterfeit checks bearing our name are being mailed to people outside Oregon. We did not issue these checks, and they are worthless.
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The recipient is sent a check, often accompanied by a story about a grant, an award, a prize, a job, or a shopping assignment.
The recipient is asked to deposit the check and then send a portion of the money back, typically by wire transfer, cryptocurrency, or gift cards.
Banks are generally required to make deposited funds available quickly, which makes the check look legitimate at first. When the check is ultimately returned as counterfeit, the bank reverses the deposit. Anything the recipient has already sent onward is gone. The recipient owes their bank the full amount.
What the Detroit Lake Foundation will never do:
We do not send unsolicited checks to individuals who have not requested payment from the Foundation.
We do not ask recipients to return any portion of a payment.
We do not request payment or transfers by cryptocurrency, gift card, or wire transfer.
We do not conduct business through unsolicited text messages or messaging apps.
If you have received one of these checks, do not deposit it. Do not send anyone money, and do not provide your bank account or personal information.
Keep the check and the envelope it arrived in.Save every text message, email, and phone number from the person who contacted you.
File a report with the FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center at ic3.gov and with the Federal Trade Commission at reportfraud.ftc.gov.
If the check arrived by mail, report it to the United States Postal Inspection Service.
Contact your own bank if you have already deposited the check, and tell them what happened.
If you have already lost money,
contact your bank immediately and ask them to attempt a recall. Time matters a great deal with wire transfers and cryptocurrency. Then file reports with the agencies above and with your local police department.
The affected Foundation account has been closed and reported to our bank and to law enforcement.We are sorry that our name was used this way, and we are grateful to the individual who recognized this and alerted us.
Questions may be directed to Elizabeth Smith: detroitna.elizabeth@gmail.com
503-910-0415
A Community Worth Celebrating
What a year it's been!
The Detroit Lake Foundation's 2026 Annual Report celebrates the people, partnerships and progress that continue to move our community forward.
From the excitement of the Detroit Fishing Derby and Fireworks Over the Lake to the music, markets and memorable summer gatherings, our events do more than bring people together. They welcome visitors, support local businesses and contribute to Detroit's economic vitality.
This year's report highlights:
Community Events & Tourism: Bringing residents and visitors together through memorable experiences.
Economic Recovery: Encouraging visitors to eat, shop, stay and explore in Detroit.
Save Detroit Lake: Continuing advocacy to protect our lake, our community and the region's economic future.
Community Programs & Investments: Supporting projects, organizations and initiatives that improve quality of life.
Sponsors & Volunteers: Recognizing the individuals and businesses who make our work possible.
Every accomplishment represents something bigger than any single event or project. It represents a community that continues to show up, work together and invest in its future.
We invite you to explore our 2026 Annual Report and see the difference we're making together.
2026 Annual Report
Our Mission:
Established in 2015, the mission of the Detroit Lake Foundation is to enhance the quality of life for residents and establish a sustainable economic recovery to ensure that the city thrives for current and future generations.
Upcoming Events
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Detroit Rocks
Discover all the beauty and adventure that Detroit has to offer and take home a treasure.
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Events
Save the dates for the upcoming events coming to Detroit, Oregon.
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Save Detroit Lake
Learn about the deep drawdown planned for 2026 and join in the conversation.
Protect the Future of Detroit Lake, the Santiam Canyon, and Salem’s Water Supply.
To support Detroit’s recovery and the preservation of Detroit Lake, stay informed about developments regarding lake levels and consider donating to the cause.
In the News…
Subscribe to our newsletter and stay informed!
Subscribe to our newsletter and stay informed!
Be a part of the rebuild.
Your commitment means the world to us.

