Basic Needs
Leading the Dialogue on Homelessness
United Way has been working to help our community tackle an issue that’s been highly visible recently: homelessness. The visibility comes from a protest in Kalamazoo. Homeless individuals and advocates camped in a city park to promote awareness and action. That protest, which began Aug. 19, ended on Sept. 19 when police cleared the park.…
Read MoreService From The Inside
Getting close to the work of United Way and our partners is eye-opening. Guest blog by Jeremy Hermann Basic needs. It’s something that I’ve heard a lot of nonprofits talk about when discussing homelessness. We’ve seen it on posters, flyers and United Way brochures. For individuals experiencing homelessness in the Kalamazoo and Battle Creek region,…
Read MoreTaking You on a Journey United
A new video travels alongside local people whose stories have been changed through United Way. Titled “Journeys United,” this powerful 3-minute production features residents Melrose, Tawana and Alejandro sharing their personal stories. Through tough times, each found the strength and opportunity to build a better life through programs made possible by United Way BCKR donors.…
Read MoreHow to Rain on a Food Desert
A chilly downpour didn’t stop Kellogg volunteers from fighting hunger in Battle Creek. On June 9, community members came together with United Way BCKR and Kellogg’s® Raisin Bran® volunteers today to enhance local community gardens at Leila Arboretum. Their aim was to make sure people in need have access to fresh fruits and vegetables. Despite…
Read MoreParchment Students Show Heart for Homeless
It began with a story and ended with a volunteer effort touching the lives of 600 homeless kids. Ninety students at Parchment Middle School held a Pop Up Volunteering event with United Way BCKR on June 1. The students from teacher Meg Vollick’s ELA classes packed 600 personal care kits that were delivered to The…
Read MoreUWBCKR's Elchert Earns Statewide Honor
Unwavering commitment to helping the homeless has earned a statewide award for a United Way BCKR staff member. The Michigan Coalition Against Homelessness (MCAH) has named Robert Elchert, Community Impact Associate for United Way BCKR, as its 2018 Public Policy Champion. MCAH, a statewide, nonprofit membership organization addressing homelessness and affordable housing, awards the Public…
Read MoreImpact Week: Ensuring a Safety Net
[su_label type=”info”]IMPACT WEEK[/su_label] United Way’s regional vision is ambitious: a vibrant community where all people realize their full potential. Getting there can be an even greater challenge for those facing tough times—a job loss, a sudden illness, a broken car, an unexpected home repair. Editor’s note: We’re celebrating Impact Week—highlighting how support for United Way…
Read More