IMPACT! Partnering to Change a Life

Dealing with mental health issues is a tough road to travel. Thankfully, Jackson County residents struggling with tough times can turn to Catholic Charities of Jackson, Lenawee and Hillsdale Counties, a partner we’re proud to support thanks to your contributions. Here’s an example of a life being changed through that partnership: A female client reported…

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Patrese Griffin named CoC Director

Continuum of Care logo

Patrese Griffin, a champion of fair housing concerns in the Kalamazoo area, has been named Director of the Kalamazoo County Continuum of Care. “The CoC and and United Way of South Central Michigan are thrilled to welcome Patrese to the team,” said Alyssa Stewart, UWSCMI Chief Impact Officer. Griffin brings a passion for housing advocacy…

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IMPACT! Being There for a ‘Little’

Someone who cares can make all the difference in a young life. Our partnership with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Jackson County transformed a youngster’s life at an early age—a change that is bearing fruit more than a decade later: Joey and Chandler met when Chandler was 7 years old. Chandler lives with his mom…

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Kzoo Boxing: Fighting with a Purpose

For Jermont Reece, the pandemic was not an opportunity to slow down, but to start up. Owner of Kzoo Boxing, Reece took the leap and built his own business after the startup he was working for closed. After getting the space he needed in July of 2020, he was ready to take the next steps…

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Statement on Shooting Death of Patrick Lyoya

United Way of South Central Michigan echoes these heartfelt words from our friends at Heart of West Michigan United Way. Tragic deaths like that of Patrick Lyoya shatter all of us. We join with our communities and our colleagues to condemn violence and work together for a safe, vibrant and equitable society that cherishes every…

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CEO Summit: When Early Childhood Works, We All Work

More than 50 business leaders representing companies across Battle Creek and Kalamazoo gathered last month to learn about childcare challenges and steps the business community can take to help solve them. United Way of the Battle Creek and Kalamazoo Region, in partnership with KC Ready 4’s and Pulse at the W.E Upjohn Institute for Employment…

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IMPACT! Learning to Cope

Once the people who have faced domestic violence get into safer surroundings, the process of healing begins. That healing includes learning to cope and being equipped to avoid violence in the future. Our partner AWARE, Inc. is doing just that for local individuals in crisis. Here’s an example: One of the counselors at AWARE worked…

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UWSCMI Board Appoints Officers, Executive Leadership

The merger of three United Ways based in south and mid-Michigan became official on April 1, 2022, offering exciting new opportunities to the region while strengthening local impact. Today the new United Way of South Central Michigan announced its board members, board officers and executive leadership. United Way of South Central Michigan (UWSCMI) brings together…

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ALICE In Focus: 1 Million Michigan Kids in Financial Peril

Nearly one million Michigan children live in households that can’t afford basic necessities, with stark differences based on race and ethnicity, according to new research released by United Way. Based on 2019 data, the ALICE In Focus: Children Report found 44% of kids statewide fall below the ALICE Threshold for Financial Survival, with 17% living…

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ALICE In Focus: 1 Million Michigan Kids in Financial Peril

Nearly one million Michigan children live in households that can’t afford basic necessities, with stark differences based on race and ethnicity, according to new research released by United Way. Click below to get the full story on our United Way of South Central Michigan website.

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