2024–25 Impact Report
This year, our community didn’t just respond to challenges — we created pathways to lasting change. At Heart of West Michigan United Way, every action we take is rooted in one bold vision: a thriving community for all.
We created pathways for families to find stability and build stronger financial futures. We removed barriers to health and opportunity so more of our neighbors could move from crisis to stability. We lifted up our youth with programs that foster belonging, confidence, and success. And we provided real-time connections — linking people to the resources they need, when they need them most.
Through your generosity, collaboration, and belief in what’s possible when we come together, we’re creating transformative solutions that move West Michigan forward — one family, one neighborhood, one community at a time.
We created pathways to financial security:
554 individuals gained employment.
84% of individuals served through funded programs maintained stable/permanent housing for 12 months or longer.
$9,182,499 in tax refunds went back into our community because of our Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Program.
106 Households were served by our Eviction Prevention Program, helping 203 children and 138 adults build a more stable housing situation.
Celebrating 50 Years of the Earned Income Tax Credit
“Since West Michigan’s own President Ford signed the Earned Income Tax Credit into law 50 years ago, it’s helped millions of families rise above the poverty line. I was honored to celebrate its anniversary with United Way.”–Congresswoman Hillary Scholten
We remove barriers to a healthy life:
96% of individuals served increase access to family crisis services
86% of participants reported increased access to fresh produce.
Operation United mobilized 377 volunteers to support 33 veterans across all 3 counties. Making their homes safer, more accessible, and more enjoyable. See all the photos >>
United Way’s Emerging Leaders United awarded three organizations a $4,500 microgrant to advance mental health and emotional wellness for youth and families.
We lifted up our youth by investing in their future
89% of students served improve school grades in STEM subjects, as well as 462 students improve their math and/or science skills.
59,524 items collected for STUFF THE BUS, providing 44 local schools and organizations with year-round supplies
Student United Way mobilized 174 students by volunteering a total of 269 hours.
550 feminine hygiene kits were built for local teen girls by the members of our Women United group.
We provided real-time connection and community support
More Than a Helpline: How 211 Connects, Supports, and Strengthens Our Community
At its core, 211 is about human connection. It’s about making sure that when someone reaches out for help, they get not just a referral, but a solution. Learn more >>
47,485 calls answered by 211 throughout 15 counties.
83% of 211 callers had their needs met.
Opportunity Empowered funded 14 initiatives for a total investment of $196,250 to uplift grassroots community driven ideas.
5,229 volunteers gave a total of 24,252 hours back to our community.
We United Resources to Create Change
7,563 Donors enabling our mission
596 Nonprofits supported in our community
$14,209,000 total dollars raised
Your generosity doesn’t stop with the numbers—it sets change in motion. Together, we’re investing in lasting solutions that reduce poverty and build a thriving community for all. The impact we’ve made this year is just the beginning of what we can achieve when we unite for West Michigan’s future.