“United” is the operative word in United Way’s name. Working together is how communities tackle the toughest issues. The collaboration between United Way BCKR and the City of Kalamazoo to invest federal dollars through the American Rescue Plan (ARP) is… A new type of grant from United Way BCKR represents a crucial step toward more […]
United Way of the Battle Creek and Kalamazoo Region (UWBCKR) has long invested in critical basic needs services and infrastructure across the region. We partner with businesses and their employees year-round to tackle our community’s toughest issues, including how we best support our growing ALICE population (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed). The UWBCKR Small Business […]
A strong community – one that is healthy, educated, financially stable and has support systems for those in crisis – pays dividends to business. Employees are happier and more satisfied with their jobs and life outside of work. Businesses are better able to retain their current workforce and attract high-quality employees. Business and employees together […]
Posted on Behalf of Laura Otte, Community Engagement Coordinator, United Way of the Battle Creek & Kalamazoo Region Earlier this year, Battle Creek was named the first-ever “Beacon Community” in the nation. In March, we brought together more than 100 community influencers for the Harwood Public Innovators Lab to launch the effort and provide an opportunity for […]
Chris Sargent, President & CEO Transforming our community is like a journey to the moon: The goal is clear and bright, but getting there is a complex and ever-changing task. When we began our journey toward 10- and 15-year goals in Education, Income/ Financial Stability, Health, and Basic Needs, we knew we’d learn and adapt […]
After ten months of unemployment, Mark Zigterman was contacted by a temp agency about an opening at United Way. While he didn’t know it at the time, it would be the beginning of a new journey. Filled with a renewed… A community is woven from the threads of stories. Most people don’t see it. They […]
United Way of Battle Creek and Kalamazoo Region is announcing the availability of 10 $2,500 mini-grants as a part of a new Seeding Leaders mini-grant opportunity. Intended to support the wellness, leadership, and/or professional development of nonprofit leaders, these grants… Movement is a way of life for Carmen James. The owner of Fit Bella Vei […]
Anmar Atchu, The Hinman Company Becky Baldwin, Michigan Nurses Association Rev. Lenzy Bell, Northside Ministerial Alliance Kevin Carson, DENSO Manufacturing Michigan, Inc. Terry Clare, Pfizer Dylan Crotty, Stryker Cameron Cummins, Rose Street Advisors Kristen DeVries, Western Michigan University Rebecca Fleury, City of Battle Creek Gabriel Giron, Speak It Forward Marcus Glass, Bronson Heather Haydo, CTS Telecom, Inc. Dave […]
In 1994, Congress passed the King Holiday and Service Act, designating the Martin Luther King Jr. Federal Holiday as a national day of service. Taking place each year on the third Monday in January, the MLK Day of Service is the only federal holiday observed as such. The MLK Day of Service calls for Americans […]
During a 1923 speaking tour, British mountaineer George Mallory was asked why, after two failed attempts, he was determined to summit Mount Everest. “Because it’s there,” Mallory replied. For his upcoming ascent of Mount Kilimanjaro, Dr. Ashutosh “Ash” Goel has simpler, aspirational reasons: to appreciate life’s opportunities, to inspire his children and others to focus […]
ALICE and Black Households Data clearly illustrate the inequities that are deeply rooted in our national, state, and local systems and institutions. During the 21-Day Racial Equity Challenge, you will take a self-guided learning journey that examines the history and impacts of racism and how it shapes people’s lived experiences in Battle Creek and Kalamazoo. […]
Through this open funding process, United Way of South Central Michigan (UWSCMI) seeks to increase the number of households in Greater Battle Creek and Kalamazoo County living above the ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, and Employed) threshold, established by the Michigan ALICE Report. UWSCMI invites applications for these grants that are aligned to Battle Creek […]
♦ RentAble can cover your security deposit – reducing the high cost of moving and giving you an edge in securing housing. ♦ RentAble will provide replacement for at least the standard one month’s rent security deposit amount – plus an additional $1,000 – for eligible tenants. ♦ Dedicated staff support throughout the process. ♦ […]
United Way is proud to offer events throughout the year that offer volunteer, networking and learning opportunities. While our typical in-person events are not currently possible to host due to COVID-19, we will have some virtual offerings. Scroll down for a calendar of what’s coming up and see how you can get involved!