NONPROFIT
The event showcases and supports minority-owned businesses and highlights international cuisine.
The honors were presented during the 2025 West Michigan Works! annual board meeting.
The achievement is held by only 17 communities nationwide.
The regional philanthropic movement was created to strengthen local nonprofits through collaboration, innovation, and collective giving.
More than two dozen local nonprofits are participating in holiday giving efforts this year.
The evening will feature an exclusive fireside chat with Andi Owen, CEO and owner of MillerKnoll, moderated by Tiffany Eubanks-Saunders, Head of Diverse Segments and Private Bank Business at Bank of America.
Guests attending the open houses will enjoy interactive stations, games, activities for all ages, food, and guided tours of the upgraded campus.
Residents who wish to donate, volunteer, or support the expanded effort are encouraged to reach out.
Applications are being accepted now through October 31, 2025.
More than 700 employees took part in service projects supporting nonprofit organizations across the state.
Themed “Bridges of Impact,” this year’s event will highlight how finalists and award winners are connecting organizations, individuals and ideas to strengthen and unify the community.
The free event will feature tours, volunteer sign-ups, children’s activities, and fall refreshments.
The open-house celebration will feature food, beverages, live music, hands-on creative activities, a photo booth, and an exhibition of work by Teen Arts + Tech alums.
Essential Service Awards categories include administrative/office worker, cleaning/housekeeping/groundskeeping, childcare, food service, government, health care/elder care, hospitality, nonprofit, retail, skilled labor and transportation.
The event will feature food, storytelling, and community impact as the organization celebrates its new name and renewed mission to promote food equity.