Andrew advocates hard for people in his community and does the work of backing up his words. It’s a big weight, it must be tough and rewarding to know you have the responsibility to assist so many. Yet often Andrew will say, “It’s worth it even if it just helps one.” He doesn’t judge. He is slow to speak with wise thoughtful words often unspoken if he is not given the floor. He doesn’t force. He walks the walk.
Jenna Arcidiacono is the owner of Amore Trattoria Italiana in Comstock Park and was recently named the Grand Rapids Business Journal’s 2020 overall Newsmaker of the Year. Jenna used her local celebrity chef status to lead the way in helping others during the pandemic, while simultaneously working to reinvent her own business in order to…
Kasey has been a part of relay for life for several years. It all started in middle school, the Macomb County area would hold a fundraiser for the Relay for Life foundation and she was always the most dedicated and motivated individual there. Kasey began raising money to attend the three days walk. Even when…
Dr. Bobby Mukkamala is a selfless Flint treasure, always doing whatever he can to make the community a better place. In the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic, he purchased several 3D printers and began making hundreds of face masks for medical professionals and others in need of the personal protective equipment. As President of…
Robby and Emma Eimers are two of the most dedicated youth volunteers in the state of Michigan. While some volunteers serve “at” a community, Robby and Emma serve “with” their community. Their continued years of helping the hungry of Detroit, and the formation of a nonprofit organization, is truly impressive. It’s clear the Eimers don’t…
Project Starburst is a nonprofit food bank based in Big Rapids, MI, and serves both Mecosta and Osceola counties. From a small but diligent start, Project Starburst has increased its presence in the community by offering what is most needed to residents who are living in poverty. The initial services were offered from the homes…
The late Bernard “Bernie” Zoet dedicated his life to serving his community. He spent 35 years as a volunteer fundraiser for The Other Way, and several years on the organization’s board. Long after he retired as an official fundraiser with the Other Way, he continued to organize an annual coat drive to serve the community,…
Access to food is a fundamental element of thriving communities. The volunteers that make up the Community Table of Albion have offered their time, energy, and resources to make sure residents of Albion have regular and consistent access to food. The group has evolved throughout the pandemic to now provide drive-thru access to food boxes…
Christine Mwangi is the Founder and President of the nonprofit Be a Rose, Inc. which works to provide health and wellness education to underserved people. It also works to distribute feminine hygiene products at no cost. This organization was founded in 2016 and aids people in the Greater Grand Rapids area, and neighboring Ottawa County.…
Salena Taylor started the non profit “Partial to Girls” two years ago to provide community assistance in Jackson to those who are in need. Partial to Girls has donated countless diapers, baby formula, and other basic care items to others in need during the COVID-19 pandemic. They also have provided life changing mentorship to young…