United Way of Ottawa and Allegan Counties

Join us as we continue our Week of Caring in Kent County today! Our teams from all over are coming together to make a difference in our community. You can stay tuned for pictures and updates throughout the day and see the impact we're making together.
With 30 nonprofit partners, 53 project sites, 43 companies, 83 teams, and nearly 800 volunteers, it's going to be an incredible day of giving back!

We have expanded our Day of Caring into a Week of Caring! Today, we kicked off in Ottawa County with projects in Grand Haven, Holland, and Zeeland. Huge thanks to all our amazing volunteers who worked hard to sort donations, wash windows, spruce up landscaping, and so much more! And let's not forget the boxes of snacks that keep our volunteer teams energized – a big shoutout to Compassionate Heart Ministries for decorating and packing them.

Thank you as well to our premier sponsor, Fifth Third Bank, for their generous support. Together, we can make a difference! Stay tuned for additional pictures and updates!

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Today is an opportunity to celebrate the millions of American workers who keep our community going. Thank you so much for your contributions. Happy Labor Day to everyone!

Our office will be closed today. Enjoy the holiday!

We are thrilled to recognize Shape Corp. as one of this year’s Campaign of the Year Award winners! Shape Corp’s commitment to improving West Michigan has reached incredible new heights, with their employees going above and beyond to make a difference.

From being a key partner in our annual Stuff the Bus drive to rolling up their sleeves for Operation United and volunteering during Week of Caring, Shape Corp has consistently supported our community. Their continued contributions truly reflect the essence of partnership and community spirit.

Shape Corp employees also took their dedication further by participating in an impact tour, where they visited key partner agencies to gain firsthand insight into the work being accomplished. This experience left them feeling empowered and more deeply connected to our mission, sparking a renewed devotion to making an impact.

From leadership involvement to employee engagement, Shape leads by example, cultivating a workplace culture centered on giving and generosity. Their determination to enrich the lives of their neighbors serves as a powerful inspiration for all.

Congratulations, Shape Corp, on this well-deserved recognition! Thank you for your unwavering dedication to building a stronger, more vibrant community. 💙

🎉 A big shoutout to the Allegan County Community Foundation for hosting an amazing Nonprofit Appreciation Picnic! We had a blast connecting with other organizations that are making a positive impact in Allegan County. Thank you for the opportunity to be a part of such an inspiring event! 🌟

We are thrilled to celebrate three incredible companies, Members First Credit Union (MFCU), Andrews Hooper Pavlik PLC (AHP), and Woodward, for being honored with United Way's Big Heart Award! 🌟

💖 Members First Credit Union exemplifies what it means to be an ally for our community. Their unwavering generosity and enormous heart have earned them this recognition. From volunteering at our annual Day of Caring event, coordinating learning presentations during their campaign, to joining us on the course for our golf outing, MFCU continually goes the extra mile. Their sponsorship of our Student United Way affinity group further showcases their commitment to fostering future community leaders. Their contributions have been extraordinary, demonstrating the power of collective effort and compassion. Thank you, Members First, for your extraordinary contributions and for driving lasting change in our community.

🌟 Andrews Hooper Pavlik PLC! AHP's dedication to philanthropy and community service embodies the essence of United Way's Big Heart Award. Their impactful campaigns bolster our outreach efforts, and their heartfelt sponsorship of our golf outing demonstrates their deep care for the community. AHP's active participation in our Emerging Leaders United Community Connect tours brings spirit and enthusiasm that is truly commendable. Your generosity and compassion are inspiring; together, we are making a brighter future for all. Thank you, AHP, for your incredible support and for standing with us in our mission to build a stronger, more vibrant community.

🎉 Woodward, Inc.! Woodward's longstanding support and exceptional commitment have significantly impacted Ottawa County and beyond. Their exciting two-week campaign filled with impactful presentations, delicious food, and themed events benefiting United Way showcases their BIG heart. Woodward’s dedication to educating their staff on the impact they make is truly remarkable. Thank you, Woodward, for your unwavering dedication, boundless energy, and heartfelt commitment to our community.

We extend our heartfelt congratulations to them for this well-deserved recognition. Together, we are building a stronger, more vibrant community where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

Attention, valued followers! In the near future, this page will merge with the Heart of West Michigan United Way page. You'll automatically be a follower of and receive updates on resources, programs, events, and more for Allegan, Kent, and Ottawa Counties. Be sure to follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram as well.

We were thrilled to support students and families across Allegan, Kent, and Ottawa Counties with this year's Stuff the Bus. Thank you to Community Action Allegan, The Salvation Army of Grand Haven Michigan, The Salvation Army - Holland, MI, and Ottawa and Allegan school districts for helping us distribute the school supplies.

Congratulations to our workplace partners!

Excitement is in the air because it’s that time of year again – time to celebrate our incredible partners! 🏆

Every summer, our team gathers to reflect on the remarkable impact we’ve achieved together through the support of our generous partners. Because of their support, we can drive toward a thriving community for all, so we are beyond thrilled to announce the extraordinary awardees of United Way's 2024 Recognition Awards! These phenomenal individuals and teams have truly gone above and beyond, making a tremendous impact in their communities. 🎉🎉

Over the next few weeks, we'll be diving deeper into the stories of each of these inspiring awardees. From the Top Agency and Advocate of the Year to the Big Heart Award and Newly United, and many more, each one represents the incredible power of unity and dedication.

Join us as we spotlight these exceptional contributors and celebrate their achievements. Their passion and commitment highlight the difference we can make when we come together to LIVE UNITED! 💪❤️

Campaign of the Year
Steelcase
Shape Corp.

Big Heart Award
Members 1st Federal Credit Union
Andrews Hooper Pavlik PLC
Woodward, Inc.

Advocate of the Year Award
Emily LaCroix, Berger Chevrolet
Kris Bettisworth, Grand Haven Area Public Schools
Nate Phillips, UA Local 174

Newly United
Kendra Scott
Union Bank of Michigan
Paris Manuel Jr., National Heritage Academies, Grand River Prep

Corporate Volunteer Partner of the Year
Fifth Third Bank
BDO USA
Flexco

Campaign Coordinator of the Year
Jenny Chaffer, Trinity Health MI
Penny Bursma, Perrigo Company plc
Taylor Letica, BISSELL Homecare, Inc.
Tim Disler, Steelcase
Sarah Belleveau-Morin, Fishbeck

Top Employee Campaign
BISSELL Homecare, Inc.
Meijer
Haworth
Costco Wholesale
Hylant

Campaign Committee of the Year
Kentwood Public Schools
Wolverine Worldwide

Top Corporate Support
Perrigo Company plc
Mercantile Bank
Kellanova

Top Agency Campaign
Legal Aid of West Michigan
Family Promise of West Michigan
Literacy Center of West Michigan
Allegan County Community Mental Health

Their passion and commitment highlight the difference we can make when we come together to LIVE UNITED! Congratulations and thank you for your unwavering commitment and boundless generosity. Your dedication truly makes a world of difference, and we are profoundly grateful for your support. 💪❤️

Hey, Ottawa and Allegan County residents, come see us at our offices in Holland and Allegan until 6pm with your school donations.

Can't wait to see you tomorrow!

Who's ready to stuff some busses?

WE ARE!!!

Drop off your supplies tomorrow at 13 On Your Side from 7 am to 7 pm, or the United Way offices in Allegan and Ottawa counties from noon to 6pm.

Get ready to make a difference in your community! Our Stuff the Bus Collection Drive is coming up this Tuesday, August 6, from 7 am - 7 pm at WZZM. We'll also be at the United Way offices in Allegan and Ottawa Counties from 12 pm - 6 pm. Stock up on supplies and help us make an impact! The countdown is on!

Visit our website for more information. hwmuw.org/stuff-the-bus

Did you forget to pack your lunch? Doordash it!

We're proud to partner with DoorDash's Project DASH to deliver food and essential items to neighbors experiencing food insecurity.

In celebration of delivering 100 million meals to people in need, is helping United Way expand food access in our communities through code PROJECTDASH until 8/25. Donations will be shared equally with Meals on Wheels America + Feeding America.

*Not valid in IL. Terms apply

Meet Nick Brower, Vice President of Corporate Engagement. Nick has been with United Way for 2.5 years. Nick oversees our corporate partnerships through our workplace campaigns, campaign cabinet, and volunteer center.

Why do you work at United Way?
I’m passionate about helping people and, more specifically, trying to reassure others through my actions that there are still good, caring people in this world who want to help lift others up when they are struggling.

Tell Us more about yourself.
My wife Jill and I have twins who turned a year old in June. It has been an amazing year watching them grow and learn new things. We also have a house with my parents near Picture Rocks in the Upper Peninsula that we rent out. It seems our plans are largely centered around that these days, and we are ensuring it’s the best experience possible for our guests. While it’s a long drive back and forth and involves many quick trips, there’s nowhere else we would rather be to enjoy the beauty of Michigan.

It's not too late to register for tomorrow's Emerging Leaders United Summer Social Celebration! 🥳

📅 Wednesday, July 31, 5:30 pm-7:30 pm
📍 Social House Kitchen and Bar

Whether you're already an ELU member or curious about getting involved in the community, everyone's invited! Join us in celebrating the amazing work of our Emerging Leaders over the past year. You'll hear about their community impact and how you can get involved. Enjoy games, food, and drinks, and connect with your peers in a fun-filled evening!

Register today! volunteerwestmi.givepulse.com/event/456905

Stuff the Bus has got us feeling all nostalgic about our school days. Check out the adorable photos of our staff and their kiddos getting ready for another year of learning and growing. Let's help make sure every student and teacher starts off on the right foot by donating school supplies today, either in-person or online! hwmuw.org/stuff-the-bus

Let's make this school year the best one yet!

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📚✏️ Help us make a difference for local students! Support Stuff the Bus by picking up some school supplies and dropping them off at one of our public drop-off locations in Allegan, Kent, and Ottawa Counties.

Visit our website for participating locations and times. hwmuw.org/stuff-the-bus

Let's come together to make this school year a success for every student!

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Hey, Allegan and Ottawa County residents! We need your help! We're looking for volunteers to collect school supplies from the public at our office locations on Tuesday, August 6th. You could even get your coworkers or family together and have a fun day of giving back. Let's make a difference together! You can help STUFF the bus! 📚✏️🎒

Sign up today! https://ow.ly/ts0o50SICU8

🚍✏️ Stuff the Bus is back and better than ever! We're on a mission to support students and teachers in Allegan, Kent, and Ottawa Counties. Whether you shop online or drop off supplies at one of our many public sites, every little bit helps. Let's make this school year the best one yet! 📚 VIsit our website for a link to our online store and a list of the many public drop-off sites. hwmuw.org/stuff-the-bus

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We had a wonderful time attending the Latin Americans United for Progress - LAUP Fiesta events this week. Our team attended the viewing of First Voice Generation, directed and produced by Cynthia Martinez, which follows the stories of three Latinx high school students in Holland, Michigan. We also attended the LatinXperience Symposium.

Mark your calendars for our Emerging Leaders United Summer Social Celebration! 🥳

📅 Wednesday, July 31, 5:30 pm-7:30 pm
📍 Social House Kitchen and Bar

Whether you're already an ELU member or curious about getting involved in the community, everyone's invited! Join us in celebrating all the amazing work of our Emerging Leaders over the past year. You can hear about their community impact and how you can get involved. Enjoy games, food, drinks, and connect with your peers in a fun-filled evening!

Register today! volunteerwestmi.givepulse.com/event/456905

Check out LAUP's Fiesta activities, including today's screening of First Voice Generation and their first-ever LatinXperience Symposium tomorrow.

Meet Gail Montgomery, our Chief Financial Officer. Gail has been with United Way for eight years. Gail oversees our finance and data departments.

What is your favorite memory of working at United Way?
Some of my favorite memories involve participating in Volunteer Center events, including Food from the Heart and Operation United. I love being able to give back to the community and thank our veterans who served our country.

Tell us about your family.
My husband Doug and I have twin adult daughters. We love going to concerts, are frequent Las Vegas visitors, and are big football fans. We continue to hold out hope that we will see the Lions in a Superbowl one day.

What are you looking forward to most this summer? I'm looking forward to completing our audit, which will bring me one day closer to football season.

Excited to welcome our new members to the Board of Directors! Their diverse backgrounds and expertise will bring fresh perspectives to our organization. We are looking forward to collaborating with them on strategic initiatives.

Ovell Barbee, Interim Chief People Officer, Ovell Rome & Associates
Dondrea Brown, Founder & Executive Director, Young Money Finances
Jen Garcia Director, Senior & Veteran Services, Allegan County, Michigan
Nathan Phillips, Assistant Business Manager, WM Plumbers, Fitters, & Service, West Mi Plumbers Fitters & Service Trades Local Union 174
Lyndsie Post, Executive Director of Marketing & Communications, Grand Rapids Community College
Max Rispler, Vice President, Client Executive, Hylant Group

We're rallying teams to collect supplies for students in need!

Stuff the Bus will be running from July 22 - August 6, and we're recruiting teams to join us in collecting supplies for students in Allegan, Kent, and Ottawa counties. Companies who collect 500+ items can present their donation on air with 13 On Your Side! Let's come together and make a difference. Sign up today, and let's make this year's drive the best one yet! Sign up today. hwmuw.org/stuff-the-bus

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Meet Kevin Myers, Chief Resource Officer. Kevin oversees the Resource Development, Volunteer Center, and Marketing teams. Kevin has been with United Way for three years now. Many people in the community may know him from his time at the YMCA of Great Grand Rapids.

What do you love about United Way?
I love working for United Way because I have always been impressed with their response and support for families struggling through a crisis. I appreciate their collaborative approach with non-profit organizations and local businesses to find solutions to the most critical community issues.

Tell us more about yourself.
I was born and raised in West Michigan, and my wife Joni and I love raising our two kids, Harrison and Ayla, here. We plan on spending our summer in Lake Michigan and Millennium Park and traveling around the state to so many amazing parks.

Meet Becki Postma, Chief Administration Officer. Becki also recently served as the interim CEO of United Way of Ottawa and Allegan Counties and led the joining of our United Ways.

What do you enjoy most about your role?
I like that I have the opportunity to positively impact the community where my family and I live, work, and play each day.

Tell us about your family.
My husband, Josh, and I have two teenage daughters. You can often find us at the softball field or volleyball court.
We also have a golden retriever named Norman, who is our office dog and has been unofficially adopted by most of our staff members.

What are you looking forward to doing this summer?
I’m looking forward to a trip to Mackinac Island and spending time with friends and family at the cottage.