Fatherhood in Focus

There’s no question that when it comes to healthy babies and healthy families, a mother’s role is crucial. But what about fathers? Many dads feel relegated to the sidelines during pregnancy and birth, and others disengage or are absent altogether. Studies show, however, that their role is just as key. Children without an active and…

Read More

Generous Spirit Brings In 55,000 Diapers

The Battle Creek and Kalamazoo region showed its generosity once again by donating 55,134 new diapers to the area’s first United Way Diaper Drive, exceeding the drive’s goal of 50,000 in just five days. United Way of the Battle Creek and Kalamazoo Region (UWBCKR) spearheaded the drive, which brought together residents, businesses, nonprofits and volunteers…

Read More

Infant Mortality Affects Us All

I was two months pregnant with my first child when I became aware of our community’s infant mortality crisis. Still a little shell-shocked from the discovery that I was pregnant, I was tentative and keeping things quiet, careful to avoid doing anything that might endanger this tiny little being. It was during this time that…

Read More

Chris Sargent Named President & CEO

Chris Sargent, a Battle Creek resident with nearly two decades of nonprofit leadership, including multiple roles with United Way, has been named President and Chief Executive Officer for United Way of the Battle Creek and Kalamazoo Region (UWBCKR). “The board is excited to have Chris take the leadership reins permanently,” said Erick Stewart, chairman of…

Read More

Pop-Up Giving Shows Value of Giving Together

The power of collaborative giving was on full display at the June 6 launch of Pop-Up Giving. More than 80 people joined United Way to show how even a small amount can make a big impact when individuals give together. Participants gathered at Cherry Tree Financial, and by contributing at least $20 at the door,…

Read More

Stryker Team Drives Impact

For Stryker volunteers, their recent Day of Caring experience was all about impact. The team made an impact with the hands-on volunteer work they completed for YWCA Kalamazoo on May 30 and saw the effect their support through United Way has on the programs there. “It’s really heartwarming to see where your dollars go and…

Read More

5 Days, 50,000 Diapers

As many as one in three families in our region struggles to get diapers for their babies. United Way is bringing together dozens of businesses, nonprofits and volunteers in a massive regional effort to collect 50,000 diapers in 5 days – and strike a blow for better infant health. The United Way Diaper Drive runs…

Read More