Shining a Light on Community Champions
Across West Michigan, individuals and organizations of all kinds step up every year to create change — from the boardroom to the classroom, from community centers to media platforms. These honorees represent the best of what it means to lead with purpose and generosity.
United Partner of the Year Award
For their longstanding leadership, employee engagement, and transformative giving across all three counties.
As this year’s United Partner of the Year, Bissell sets the standard for what corporate partnership can look like. Their best-in-class campaign engages employees across departments and levels, fueling both fundraising success and long-term community investment.
Bissell goes beyond the basics. They host a recurring series of impact tours for their leadership team to connect firsthand with the outcomes of their giving. They plan creative fundraising events, mobilize volunteers, and participate in collection drives that directly support neighbors in need.
One of their most distinctive contributions is the refurbished vacuum program, which has provided over 1,000 vacuums to individuals and families served by United Way’s community partners. It’s a tangible, practical example of how Bissell lives its values — cleaning up more than floors, but also the barriers that stand in the way of dignity and stability. Their team shows up, not just in numbers but in spirit.
Neighborhood Hero Award
Recognizing a partner deeply committed to uplifting local neighborhoods through grassroots action and bold philanthropy.
Innovative Engagement Award
For reimagining what it means to partner—with creativity, visibility, and a platform that amplifies community voice.
The Pinnacle of Partnership Award
Arbor Circle (Ottawa), Christian Neighbors (Allegan),
and Hispanic Center Of Western Michigan (Kent)
Celebrating three nonprofit partners whose deep collaboration and cross-sector engagement made a lasting difference across their counties and our region.
Emblem of Support Award
ITW
For quiet strength and consistent support that fuels our work behind the scenes and sustains critical initiatives year after year.
Defender of Tomorrow Award
Stephanie Slingerland
For visionary leadership that lifts up future generations through transformative investments in youth and family opportunity.
Workplace Coordinator of the Year
Aashna Cross
Recognizing outstanding campaign leadership that inspires participation, generosity, and shared purpose.
Advocate of the Year
Lauren Davis
For using her voice, network, and platform to champion United Way’s mission and bring new partners into the fold.
Years Forward Award
The Young Family
Few families have left a deeper imprint on Heart of West Michigan United Way than the Young family. Their legacy spans generations of leadership, philanthropy, and unwavering belief in the power of community.
Richard (Dick) Young, former campaign chair and lifelong supporter, set the tone for what it means to lead with generosity and purpose. His example continues to inspire not only his family but also the broader philanthropic community.
His son, Doug Young, CEO of Behler-Young, has carried that torch with distinction. Doug recently completed his service on our Board of Directors and co-chaired the 2019–2020 Annual Campaign alongside his son, Cam Young.
Together, Doug and Cam brought multi-generational energy to the effort and continue to serve on the Campaign Cabinet. In 2025,
the family is marking another important milestone: the 100th anniversary of Behler-Young Company. This centennial celebration honors a century of leadership, innovation, and deep roots in West Michigan—a legacy that continues to grow through both business and community impact.
This enduring family commitment reflects more than tradition—it shows the ripple effect of leadership rooted in values. In recognition of this deep and lasting impact, the Young Family will be honored with a special award this year, celebrating not just their service, but the legacy their family continues to build.
Company Spotlight
Rooted in West Michigan and reaching across the globe, Perrigo continues to demonstrate what it means to care for community. Their support of United Way initiatives—from workplace giving to health equity partnerships—has created lasting impact in Allegan County and beyond. Perrigo doesn’t just invest in health; they invest in hope.
The 2023 campaign marked the final year with their long-time Employee Campaign Coordinator, who led the effort for nearly two decades. In 2024, two new coordinators stepped into the role with energy and determination—rolling out new incentives and hosting in-person opportunities to connect employees directly with United Way staff.
Their efforts paid off: donor participation and giving increased, and Perrigo’s impact expanded well beyond Michigan, reaching employees and communities across Ohio, Vermont, and New York.