Marilyn also carries her passion for positively impacting the lives of others into the community. She puts her time and attention where her passion lies. Her commitment to "give back" has resulted in numerous projects and initiatives, particularly those focused on improving education and quality of life in her region and beyond.
The Southern Wayne County Chamber of Commerce serves the needs of businesses in 21 different Wayne County communities. Marilyn Opdyke has served as a member of the Board of Directors for 12 years, is past chair of their Education Committee and is current chair of the Human Resources Council.

As a trustee for the Eastern Michigan University Foundation Marilyn raises funds, oversees endowments and promotes the interests of Eastern Michigan University.
Marilyn Opdyke and her friend and colleague, Kathy Merrill, established the Fund for Innovation –a research and development endowment at the Eastern Michigan University College of Business – to promote the development and teaching of new approaches to solving business issues. Kathy and Marilyn completed their MBAs together at Eastern; the school recently named a conference room in their honor.

Workforce Development has always been a passion of Marilyn’s. She puts her time – and both personal and corporate resources – behind that passion. Marilyn serves on the Board of Directors for SEMCA – the Southeast Michigan Community Alliance and is the past chair of the Wayne County School-To-Work Partnership. She also speaks and volunteers on behalf of students and educators throughout Michigan and the country.

The Opdyke Group recently sponsored the Allen Park High School Jazz Band as they performed at the Black Tie opening for the Downriver Business Expo.  She is also an active booster for the Marching, Symphonic and Concert Bands.
The Opdyke Group was proud to sponsor a hole at the 2001 University of Michigan Club – Downriver's annual golf outing and fund raising event.  Over $6000 was raised for student scholarships.