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Feels Good To Do Good.
12.3.24 Giving Tuesday 2024
On Giving Tuesday, join us to make history at the inaugural Grand Rapids Giving Day. This is more than just a fundraising event—it’s a bold movement to raise $250,000 that will directly fuel 50 female-founded, grassroots, and/or innovative nonprofits. These organizations are the lifeblood of our community, driving innovative solutions and creating lasting change. By joining us, you’re not just donating—you’re helping a diverse group of passionate leaders to amplify their impact.
AGENDA
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11:00 a.m.
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11:15 a.m. - 12:15 p.m.
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12:15 p.m. - 1:15 p.m.
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2:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.
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3:30 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
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4:30 p.m. - 5:30 p.m.
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6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
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7:00 p.m.
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7:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Event Starts | Welcome from Hilary Doe, Chief Growth Officer for the State of Michigan
Speed Networking (Loft Area)
Lunch and Networking | Sponsored by Insperity
Power Hour | Painting by Asma Speaks LIVE Auction & Performance by Sophia Mcintosh
Fireside Chat | Panelists Jennifer Wrangler, Chelsea Toler, & Arick Davis, Ricardo O'Neal, Host: Stephanie Scott
Networking and Hors d'oeuvres
Social Enterprise Pitch | Host Corey Heart of Start Up Grind GR
Event Concludes
Mixer and Celebration | Sponsored by Gentex​
ADDRESS: The 1530 | 1530 Madison Ave, Grand Rapids, MI 49507
OUR SPONSORS
MEET THE NON-PROFITS
A Glimpse of Africa
Why?
AGOA is a rapidly growing nonprofit with a strong track record of impact in the African immigrant and refugee community, but we consistently face challenges due to limited funding. Joining GR Giving day offers a fantastic platform for collaborating with like-minded leaders and organizations, pooling resources to ensure we can achieve even greater collective impact.
A Mother's Touch
Why?
A Mother's Touch is getting involved with GR Giving Day for an opportunity to meet other great non profits and to share with community how our program impacts our community.
AYA Youth Collective
Why?
We are involved with GR Giving Day so that we can share AYA with more members of the community. We are excited to have AYA spotlighted and celebrated and we cannot wait to share all that we do!
Ama International
Why?
Ama believes in the power of collaborative impact. We are joining forces with 49 other organizations to showcase what’s possible when we link arms and drive toward a collective goal. Ama believes in the power of WE.
Arbor Circle
Why?
GR Giving Day gives Arbor Circle the opportunity to connect with community members who want to support the wellbeing of the children, youth, adults and families we serve through our wide range of counseling, case management, and family services.
Arts Marketplace at Studio Park
Why?
At AMP, we're committed to transforming our city's economic landscape by addressing critical challenges in diversity and opportunity. Through Arts Marketplace, we're proud to support over 70 minority-owned startups and artisans. Your support on GR Giving Day helps us continue this vital mission, fostering growth and opportunity in our community.
Be A Ruby
Why?
We are a part of giving day to meet and network with the wonderful organizations involved and to help raise funds for all of them.
Blue Diamonds Training and Consulting, Inc.
Why?
At Blue Diamonds, we're involved in GR Giving Day because we believe in the power of collective action to uplift our community. This day is about more than just donations—it's about coming together to support the organizations that are driving real change in Grand Rapids. By participating, we're helping to create opportunities, provide essential resources, and strengthen the foundation of our city. It's a chance to contribute to meaningful change, support underserved communities, and be part of something bigger than ourselves. Together, we can create opportunities, provide resources, and build a stronger, more resilient city. Let's make a difference, one donation at a time.
Broadway Grand Rapids
Why?
Broadway Grand Rapids (BGR) proudly joins Giving Tuesday to celebrate female-founded, innovative nonprofits making a difference in West Michigan. BGR's involvement goes beyond bringing world-class theater to the city; it’s about uplifting local efforts that transform lives and strengthen the community. By shining a light on these remarkable organizations, BGR calls on everyone to unite in this movement, fostering meaningful, lasting change together. Let’s empower our community and be part of something bigger.
Community Of Hearts
Why?
Community of Hearts is excited to partner with GR Giving Day to help share in strengthening the non-profit infrastructure in Grand Rapids. Through GR Giving Day, we believe in the potential impact of this major event and look forward to the many opportunities for networking and learning about the various resources of local non-profits featured on the GR Giving Day platform.
Community on Canvas
Why?
Community on Canvas is a nonprofit organization that connects people through art to strengthen and enrich communities. The term "Canvas" represents the idea that the world is our canvas, where everyone’s creativity has a place. We focus on fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion while promoting health, wellness, and disability awareness. Through meaningful community engagement, we encourage creative expression to build connections that inspire and uplift. Our work is guided by three key programs: Leadership on Canvas, Care on Canvas, and pARTies, each dedicated to engaging people of all backgrounds in collaborative art experiences.
Daddy Daughter Time
Why?
We are thrilled to be a part of GR Giving Day as we have seen the numerous ways in which the West Michigan communities embrace philanthropy. We're looking forward to connecting with other organizations and the opportunity to highlight the work we do.
Disability Advocates of Kent County
Why?
Disability Advocates looks forward to participating with other great non-profits in the first GR Giving Day!
Dream K.I.M. Speaks
Why?
Participating in Giving Day GR will raise awareness about my nonprofit. It’s a great way to educate others and bring attention to important issues that affect the youth in our community. This will be a new opportunity and innovative opportunity for the Grand Rapids community to support great causes that impact the lives of the community in a multitude of ways.
Ele's Place
Why?
At Ele’s Place West Michigan, we provide kids an emotionally safe space to share stories and memories, explore complicated feelings and learn coping skills alongside their peers. Most importantly, they feel heard and understood, and realize they are not alone. These achievements would not have been possible without the dedication and compassion of our supporters. This support allows us to continue offering hope and healing to grieving children, teens and their families. Together, we are making a significant difference in West Michigan, one heart at a time.
Everbloom Montessori
Why?
This Giving Tuesday, Everbloom Montessori is raising funds to connect with the West Garfield Park community as we embark on a major renovation and expansion. Our goal is to build relationships, foster trust, and understand the needs of our new neighbors. With your support, we can host community events, provide resources, and engage local families in shaping the future of Everbloom, ensuring our growth is rooted in collaboration and shared vision.
Grace's Table
Why?
We are involved in GR Giving Day because we believe every teen mom deserves to feel supported, loved, and empowered. Our mission is to walk alongside these young women, helping them transition from isolation to community, and providing them with the resources, mentorship, and mental health support they need to thrive. By participating in GR Giving Day, we're not just raising funds; we're investing in the future of these moms and their children, ensuring they have the opportunity to reach their full potential.
Grand Rapids Police Foundation
Why?
The Grand Rapids Police Foundation is excited to be involved in the first GR Giving Day. We look forward to sharing the mission of our Foundation and share with the GR community our commitment to the GRPD AND the people they serve.
Grandville Avenue Arts & Humanities
Why?
At Grandville Avenue Arts & Humanities we envision a flourishing neighborhood where people embody liberation, self-determination, self-expression, connection, and joy. We know other people in our community share this vision for our city and our community, so we are thrilled to be involved in the first ever GR Giving Day!
Greater Grand Rapids Branch NAACP
Why?
At the Greater Grand Rapids NAACP, we firmly believe in the transformative power of philanthropy. Through intentional giving, people and organizations can direct resources where they are needed most, addressing both immediate needs and the long-term, systemic challenges faced by historically disadvantaged communities. Our approach to philanthropy goes beyond seeking monetary donations—it's about fostering sustainable change by investing in the people, programs, and policies that uplift those who have been left behind by unjust systems.
Healthy Homes Coalition
Why?
We are involved in GR giving day for multiple reasons. Those reasons include sharing the word and purpose of environmental health, the current realities of harm in our community, the strong and well needed work by the HHC team and lastly to increase partners to aide in the sustainability of our work in education, services and goals to protect young and vulnerable children from harm.
Heart of West Michigan United Way
Why?
At Heart of West Michigan United Way, we are dedicated to building a thriving community for all. We believe that access to stable housing is fundamental to the success of our neighbors. Through our Eviction Prevention program, we support families in Kent County who are at risk of losing their homes. Our involvement in GR Giving Day amplifies these efforts, allowing us to help more individuals and families remain safely housed and prevent the devastating effects of homelessness and instability. By participating, you join us in strengthening our community and ensuring that housing remains within reach for all.
Hello West Michigan
Why?
Hello West Michigan is a non-profit promoting West Michigan as a great place to live and work. Population growth is critically important for the health of our economy and community. By connecting potential relocatees with employment opportunities and community resources, we make relocation easier and help retain new residents for the long-term. Kent and Ottawa Counties are two of the only counties that have experienced population growth in Michigan in the last decade, a testament to the impact of our efforts. Our cornerstone programs include our Weekly Resume Pack Program, West Michigan Intern Connect, and Rapid Roots.
Highfive
Why?
Nathan, as the visionary CEO of Highfive, is deeply committed to revolutionizing education through technology. His participation in the Giving Day event underscores Highfive's dedication to making a positive impact in the educational landscape. Nathan brings his extensive experience and passion for innovative learning solutions to this important initiative. By engaging with educators, donors, and community leaders, he aims to foster partnerships that will enhance educational opportunities for students. Nathan's involvement not only represents Highfive's mission but also demonstrates his personal commitment to creating lasting change in how we approach education in the digital age.
Hope Gain Center of West Michigan
Why?
As an organization dedicated to empowering individuals with mental health challenges through employment opportunities, we believe in the power of community support. GR Giving Day aligns with our mission to uplift those in need and create lasting change. By joining this initiative, we're able to extend our reach and continue providing critical resources and support to those who need it most, helping them achieve financial independence and well-being. Together, we can build a stronger, more inclusive Grand Rapids.
Hope for Single Moms
Why?
Hope for Single Moms is thrilled to join GR Giving Day, a dynamic movement uniting our community to make a difference! This is an opportunity to spotlight the incredible potential of single moms, rally support and raise vital funds, which will allow them to return to school for a career education. With your help, these women can achieve their dream of financial independence, their children can reach their full potential, and their families become stronger and more stable. Join us in this exciting opportunity to transform single mom families and move them from poverty to prosperity!
Lions & Rabbits Center for the Arts
Why?
Every neighborhood deserves to be safe and nurturing. At Lions & Rabbits Center for the Arts, we understand that public art is a powerful tool for creating such environments.
Our work turns ordinary spaces into extraordinary places. Streets, sidewalks, and parks become filled with color, life, and inspiration.
And the impact goes far beyond beautification. It drives measurable improvements in community health, public safety, and social connection.
Your Giving Tuesday donation enables us to expand our work into more and more neighborhoods, and unleash the power of art to cultivate safer, more nurturing neighborhoods where everyone can flourish.
Marvelous Lifestyles Outreach
Why?
At Marvelous Lifestyles Outreach, we are committed to empowering socially and economically disadvantaged communities through financial literacy, child care, and youth development programs. We are proud to participate in Grand Rapids Giving Day because it allows us to amplify our impact by connecting with a wider network of supporters who share our vision of creating a world where every person has the tools to build a stable and prosperous life. Your support on this day will help us continue to break barriers, nurture dreams, and strengthen our communities for generations to come.
Meaning In Colors
Why?
Meaning In Colors Career Mentoring and Transitional Housing continues vision by providing youth and families with youth the knowledge of Financial Literacy, Sustainable Employment Opportunities that provide a livable wage and Transitional Housing placement. We meet the needs of individuals to ensure secure housing aligning with our guidelines as well as our partners.
Michael Sadler Foundation
Why?
Michael Sadler Foundation is proud to participate in GR Giving Day because Grand Rapids is where our signature GAMECHANG3RS program has the largest community impact. To date, we've worked with more than 6000 kids and that number is growing. Demand is strong for this mentoring program, but we're currently bound by capacity. We hope to expand our exposure to people and businesses in our community who have a passion for youth development on GR Giving Day.
Michigan Council of Women in Technology (MCWT)
Why?
Everything we do centers on inspiring and growing women in technology. MCWT is on a mission to help women consider, advance and stay in tech here in Michigan. We work to broadly reach young girls to get them to consider technology and deeply connect with women who choose the technology path. Every business in Michigan has a stake in building a thriving, diverse pool of tech talent. Help us build that community by partnering with MCWT and gaining access to tomorrow’s technology leaders.
New City Kids
Why?
Every day through various programming and events New City Kids has been loving kids for change for 30 years!!! With a heavy focus on the youth of our community who are experiencing challenges in accessing resources whether financial or social supports we connect with them to give them opportunities of hope for their future. We work together with them to open their pathway to empowerment through college prep, on-site employment internship opportunities, introduction to various industries and career paths, tutoring, musical instruction, and empowering the teens to lead the next generation to those pathways as well. We believe this changes the trajectory not only of the lives we serve but also the trajectory of future generations. We are immensely grateful for the generosity of our donors and partners that make this work possible. It truly takes a village and we all play a significant role whether through personal connection or financial contribution. We need and are grateful for all of our village.
New Destiny Patheays
Why?
As a grassroots organization, we understand the barriers that small businesses experience in their journey to becoming successful. We want to be apart of a solution to highlight the amazing resources that are in our community that are changing lives. We want to be a part of the change we want to see.
New Growth Project
Why?
81% of individuals with disabilities are unemployed in Kent county. Left isolated and overlooked by employers these individuals have little community connection or sense of purpose. New Growth Project is a chemical free vegetable farm in Rockford, Michigan providing fair wage employment opportunities for individuals with cognitive differences. Our mission is to teach job skills, grow a sense of purpose in our employees, and equip them for greater employment in the community. By participating in GR Giving Day we will spread awareness of the vast need we strive to address.
Positive Impact for Life
Why?
Positive Impact for Life is a nonprofit organization that is founded on the basis of giving. We are participating in GR Giving Day in support of all of the amazing organizations that are making positive changes in the community.
Redeemed Style & Mobile Boutique
Why?
Making a difference for our community and our world takes partnership, not competition. Each nonprofit organization has a mission to assist those in need. Let's work together to make a BIG difference!
STEM Greenhouse
Why?
GR Giving Day is an opportunity to amplify the work of nonprofit organizations that may be overlooked otherwise. The STEM Greenhouse is doing amazing work and serving almost 1000 students in our community and GR Giving day allows us to tell our story to a broader audience.
Safe Haven Ministries
Why?
Safe Haven Ministries believes our mission is fueled by partnership and is tied to the well being of the whole community from youth to neighbors to organizations. GR Giving Day embodies the value of collaboration which makes a community thrive. We celebrate the opportunity to invite collective generosity across all of Grand Rapids and to see how when we support one another our whole community benefits.
Spark Light Ministry
Why?
Envision a global movement dedicated to empowering individuals to discover their unique purpose, overcome obstacles, and ignite their inner fire to fulfill their life's calling. A world where people no longer feel lost, broken, or lack clarity in their meaning or purpose, because they embarked on the transformative journey towards self-discovery and fulfillment to reach their full potential. Grand Rapids Giving Day will serve as a pivotal launchpad, propelling our mission to touch lives and spread this empowering message across the globe.
Storehouse of Community Resources
Why?
The Storehouse of Community Resources is excited to participate in Grand Rapids Giving Day, which mirrors our mission of amplifying impact in the community. This initiative highlights how collective funding can multiply the support provided to nonprofits, similar to how we amplify the impact of product donations. By joining this effort, we join in the support of a diverse range of organizations, particularly those led by women and people of color, and contribute to creating lasting positive change. This partnership is a powerful way to extend financial support to many organizations in our community.
Taylor Made Re-Entry
Why?
At Taylor Made Re-entry, we are dedicated to bridging the gap between communities, law enforcement, and justice-impacted citizens. Through our reentry support programs, specialized education for law enforcement, and civic engagement initiatives, we empower these groups to work together for mutual understanding and positive change. By participating in Grand Rapids Giving Day, you’re helping us continue this critical work, ensuring that everyone in our community has the opportunity to thrive.
The Dollar Difference
Why?
Our work at The Dollar Difference provides us with so much joy and purpose as we bring people together to support the West Michigan foster and adoptive community. Collaboration is at the heart of our organization, and we love that the focus of the GR Giving Day aligns with that same sentiment. It was an easy "yes" for us to be involved with the GR Giving Day, and to join forces with other female-founded, grassroots nonprofits and celebrate all of our contributions to the West Michigan community and beyond. We are excited that this platform will allow us to share our mission with so many people and also provide us with the opportunity to learn more about other nonprofits that are serving our community so faithfully.
The Other Way Ministries
Urban League of West Michigan
Why?
Money will be given back to the community where the community votes on what initiatives through Opportunity Empowered are funded.
West Michigan Asian American Association
Why?
We are committed to empower and engage with our Asian communities to meet the needs of individuals and families in the areas of access to healthcare, education and civic engagement.
Women of Aerospace Industry Association of Michigan
Why?
WAIAM supports GR Giving Day to be part of the collective effort to raise visibility for grassroots, women-led, and innovative nonprofits. Our mission aligns with the efforts of supporting and promoting the advancement of all women toward their goals to create a positive impact on their communities and beyond.
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