Archive for 2013
Changing the Story: John Lewandowski
There are thousands of small businesses across our region, all boasting different services and unique experiences. As a small business owner, John Lewandowski, stands out in a big way with his passion for our community. John is the owner of Approved Protection Systems and a volunteer, advocate and donor to United Way of the Battle…
Read MoreBack to School Means Time to Invest in Our Students
It seems like everyone is getting in the back-to-school spirit! As a recent college grad, it feels a little surreal not to be agonizing over the costs of my books and comparing class schedules with friends. While I’m still adjusting to my new “alumna” status, back-to-school time as a new United Way employee brings…
Read More2012 Campaign Kicks Off!
The 2012 United Way community campaigns in Battle Creek and Kalamazoo got off to a great start on Sept. 12 with fantastic weather and equally fantastic support. Attendees were treated to a little food, a lot of music, and a really big parking ticket. Battle Creek’s campaign kicked off at Willard Beach in the morning.…
Read MoreBeating the Summer Slide
Summer brings a lot of excitement when you’re a kid; sleeping in, plenty of outside play time, and no homework. The freedom kids celebrate, however, causes educators to worry about the “summer slide.” Summer slide refers to a learning loss some students experience when removed from the school system for months on end. At United…
Read MoreCorrie
“IT WAS VERY HELPFUL HAVING THIS PERSON IN MY LIFE WHO HAD BEEN THERE TO HELP ME DO THE RIGHT THING.”
Read MoreFrom the Campaign Trails: The 2012 Health Bus Tour
In between the fun of our two great Community Campaign Kickoff events, UWBCKR supporters in Kalamazoo had the opportunity to board a charter bus and get a glimpse into the impact they have on the community. Each year, the bus tour focuses on one of our pillars of Education, Income or Health, visiting three local…
Read MoreChanging the Story: Days of Caring
While we know how important raising the combined $15.3 million is for our regional community, we also know that money alone won’t solve everything. Which is why we’re thrilled to see so many of our corporate partners step up not just for workplace campaigns, but for volunteering as well. Days of Caring are United Way…
Read MoreHealthy Behavior Challenge
One of our focus pillars at United Way is health, and we’re passionate about helping everyone in our community live well. We’re also passionate about the health of our staff, which is why our wellness program leaders decided to up the ante a little: with a healthy behavior challenge against Big Brothers Big Sisters staff!…
Read MoreKiersten Meales is Changing the Story
Kiersten Meales seems like an ordinary Western Michigan University freshmen: she’s studying early childhood education, volunteering around campus, and is hoping to become a resident assistant in her future years. What sets Kiersten apart, and drives her passion for helping others is her deep understanding of struggle. Kiersten grew up in the foster care system…
Read MoreVolunteer Spotlight: WMU Students Lend a Hand
Students are an extremely valuable part of the community we live in. Now, I suppose I am a little biased since I am a student. But, as I approach graduation, I’m taking more notice of the active role students play in changing people’s lives for the better. At United Way of the Battle Creek and…
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