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County offices closed in the afternoon on Mar 29th

Macomb County offices will be closed in the afternoon on Friday March 29th in observance of Good Friday. Online services are available 24/7.

Vote for your favorite Nonprofit of the Year

Help us determine this year's Nonprofit of the Year at the Macomb Business Awards.

The Macomb Business Awards, hosted by Macomb County Planning and Economic Development, is seeking your help to determine the Nonprofit of the Year!

In this special category, a public vote will help determine, along with the judges' vote, which organization will win this new award.

Voting opens March 25 and ends on March 31 at 11:59 p.m. Only one vote is allowed (per email address). But nominees and supporters are encouraged to share this voting process with family, friends and through social media.

Please cast your below!

Here are the Nonprofit of the Year nominees. Each description is supplied as is by the nominator.

The nominees

Several community needs assessments have pointed to a gap in services in the areas of Social Isolation, Parent Emotional Health, & Information/Resource Sharing. The ultimate purpose of the ASGD is to find and fill these gaps within our state. Based on the information collected from local and state agencies and families the ASGD offers targeted programing. The ASGD offers Social Clubs which are more than a feel-good socialization program. In this program, isolated ASD teens and adults receive peer support while practicing skills needed to be successful out in the community. Boosting personal productivity, increase in conflict-resolving skills, & an increased quality of life are the key outcomes for attendees. Thus far ASGD has held 13 gatherings and touched the lives of 56 individuals in the Tri-county area with this program. Peer Support Groups are a safe space where individuals share experiences, get information & advice, and make community connections. Key outcomes for attendees are a reduction in loneliness, isolation, and stress, and for caregivers also a reduction in the burden of care. The Parent support groups have become so popular that families have asked ASGD to host them bi-weekly instead of 1x a month. Thus far ASGD has held 21 meetings and touched the lives of 51 families in the Tri-county area with this program. The “Navigating Autism” Information & Referrals service has already assisted over 45 Macomb County families with multiple social-emotional, educational, health, housing and basic needs. The Resource Lists are always available through a 24/7 messaging service for families to ask questions and obtain a quick response of advice from parents with experience raising special needs family members. Key community outcomes for this program are increased preparedness, a reduction in isolation and stress, and a reduction in the burden of care for the community at large.

CARE of Southeastern Michigan’s EAP, WorkLife Solutions, has addressed the important issue of supporting the mental wellbeing of our local first responders. Due to the cumulative stress of the job from emotionally difficult scenes, first responders require special interventions to build their resiliency. CARE has developed a robust cluster of services aimed at supporting the well-being, vitality and growth of Macomb County’s first responders. These specialized services include: crisis response, critical incident stress debriefing (CISD), trauma informed culture surveys, customized training, technical assistance on developing peer support, on-site counseling, behavioral health screenings and grief support. Some Highlights Crisis Response- same day on-site response to offer behavioral health support. A municipality contacted us for support when they learned of the death of a beloved officer by gun shot. CARE was on site with a team within a few hours to support the department. CISD- intervention designed for dealing with traumatic events First Responders experience. A formal, highly structured and professionally recognized process for helping those involved in traumatic events. CARE built a team of clinicians and first responders that is certified by the Michigan Crisis Response Association. In two years, CARE has conducted over 38 debriefings for a total of 276 Macomb County first responders. Technical Assistance for First Responder Peer Support CARE has assisted departments with the development of peer support teams. Sterling Heights Fire Department has a robust program with CARE's assistance. (Mike Amormino-reference)

Macomb County has over 19,000 special needs children and adults in our community. The value of the Little League Challenger Baseball division is found in the proven therapeutic and socialization benefits of participating in sports which strengthens their self-esteem and teaches them discipline and teamwork. In 1993 we began with 16 special needs players, 2 teams. In 2023 we registered 200 players, 14 teams. In 2008 we built the first adaptive Little League baseball field in Macomb County. In 2014 Little League Baseball change the age limit for the Challenger Division. Players 4 years old and up (no age limit) can now play Little League Challenger Baseball. We are now registering over 100 players 16 years old and up. We needed to build them their own adaptive field for their safety and allow more playing time. In 2019 we began a fundraising campaign to build the new field in Neil Reid Park where are current field is located. After 4 years of fundraising over $280,000.00 we are now building the new Senior League adaptive field for our older players which will be available for play this summer. The new field will have large dugouts, a rubberized base path so players in wheelchairs or walkers can easily maneuver, longer base paths and a larger outfield for their safety. The new field will give our older players their own field of dreams. Our Challenger Baseball program has opened many doors especially for older players who thought they would never be able to play the game of baseball. It gives them a feeling of acceptance, feeling part of a team, making new friends and getting some much-needed physical activity. It's more than just baseball, it's a feeling of being part of the community.

CYS fits for the non-profit of the year through its unwavering commitment to supporting and assisting individuals in need. They are a cornerstone in the community, offering various programs catering to different aspects of individuals' well-being. The four programs are: 1. Clinton Counseling Center Jail Program (Mount Clemens, MI) The jail program is within the Macomb County Jail, where it offers counseling support to inmates struggling with substance use issues. The program extends its reach to the community by providing free Narcan training. This initiative serves as a valuable resource for those affected by addiction within the jail and underscores the program's commitment to promoting community well-being and safety through proactive measures. 2. Clinton Counseling Center (Mount Clemens, MI) C3 provides a range of services catered to individuals struggling with substance use and mental health issues. Through individual and group counseling sessions, clients find the support and guidance to navigate their challenges and work towards a healthier, more fulfilling life. 3. Family Youth Interventions (Mount Clemens, MI) FYI provides crucial support and shelter for runaway and homeless youth in the community. Their commitment to offering a safe haven for vulnerable young individuals in need is commendable and plays a significant role in addressing the pressing issue of youth homelessness. 4. The Harbor (Port Huron, MI) The Harbor is the same program as FYI; it is located in Port Huron. Through their dedication and expertise, CYS has achieved measurable results in their endeavors. They have successfully provided shelter, counseling, and guidance to countless individuals, empowering them to overcome their challenges and regain control of their lives. The impact of their programs can be seen through the improved well-being and outcomes of the individuals they serve, showcasing their effectiveness in making a tangible difference in the community.

They are a nonprofit with all volunteers. They're open to rescue 24/7 to take calls. They have 275 volunteers including 35 foster homes. They have a retired Detroit police officer Bryan Ede (also in Macomb County business owner) who is a pilot who has volunteered his time and airplane to save so many. They also host local meetups to give information and socialize with other dachshunds and Corgis.They have a wonderful “Seniors for Seniors” program where they pair of senior dogs with seniors for companions. They also participated in one of the largest puppy mill busts with over 700 dogs rescued. They also allow kids to do service hours for school and selected individuals on probation to do community service. They're well known and work with all municipalities to help. They take all dogs regardless of medical needs and behavioral issues. They work with Force free trainers as well as vets and animal chiropractors to make sure every Doxie and Corgi gets the best care possible. They also support other rescues and municipalities with supplies when they are in need. They are well liked and respected in their community. Sterling Heights Animal Control has used their dogs for training with the community.

FAN fights nonstop to erase stigma and offer free services to those who suffer from substance use disorder through their many programs. Hope Not Handcuffs initiative has helped place over 11000 people into treatment. They offer free recovery services such as peer recovery coaches, family recovery coaches, harm reduction, recovery housing aid, narcan training and distribution. They work with Macomb law enforcement to help those in need of these services. There are no fees to any of their services as they are grant funded through state and federal governments. They host events in the community to bring attention and educate others on how to erase stigma and offer support. They manage several rescue boxes placed in the community that dispense free Narcan. FAN hosts community forums with guest speakers for family members, those in recover and those who are not on their journey to sobriety yet. They host a free yoga class once a week for those in recovery and their loved ones. They offer free harm reduction supplies as well as free fentanyl testing, hep c testing and HIV testing. Safety is a priority. They offer free virtual groups for families as well as loved ones seeking recovery. They spread awareness for those who suffer from addiction every day.

In 2006, the City of Fraser initiated a project to build a barrier-free park for children and adults of all abilities. Volunteers joined the project, then run by the Recreation Department. Money was raised and put aside. Then the Great Recession hit, and projects were put on hold. The volunteers involved in the project decided to branch off on their own. And so began Fraser First. They soon discovered that building a park from scratch was hard work, took a long time, and took a lot of money. Phase 1 consisted of preparing the park for development. Phase 2, completed in 2017, included a jet-themed playscape, fire truck, and a toddler sand lot, along with a "Sway-Fun" accessible glider and accessible swings. This part of the project included a "community build". Dozens of volunteers assembled the playscapes on a hot September weekend. Since our founding in 2010, Fraser First has been a grassroots organization of friends, family, business owners, and members of the community that have come together to build this park. With the completion of the park, The FFBC is now setting its sights on a new project that promises to bring further benefits to the community. Fraser First Booster Club's mission is "Making the world a better place for all of us".

Friends of Foster Kids (FOFK) began in 2008, sparked by a conversation at a Thanksgiving table. A simple discussion about foster children missing out on Christmas blossomed into a powerful mission to ensure that no child in foster care would be forgotten during the holidays or after high school. Today, FOFK stands as a beacon of hope, serving over 1500 foster children across Macomb, Oakland, and Wayne Counties. The core of FOFK lies in bridging the gaps—financial, emotional, and psychological—that often plague children in foster care. These youngsters, removed from their homes due to abuse or neglect, often face multiple placements and grapple with the long-lasting effects of trauma. FOFK recognizes these challenges and endeavors to fill the void, particularly during pivotal moments such as high school graduation and the holiday season. The Grads program exemplifies FOFK's commitment to empowering foster youth as they transition into adulthood. By providing personalized essentials tailored to each graduate's needs—whether college-bound or pursuing a trade—FOFK equips these individuals with the tools necessary for success. From dormitory supplies to career-related equipment, every item serves as a tangible reminder that they are supported and valued. Similarly, the Christmas Program embodies the spirit of giving and compassion. Through meticulous coordination with caseworkers and generous donors, FOFK ensures that every foster child receives not only their desired gifts but also a sense of belonging and joy. The organization transforms into a bustling workshop, where volunteers wrap each present, infusing them with love and care before they find their way into the hands of eager recipients. FOFK's impact extends far beyond material provisions; it instills hope, resilience, and a sense of community in those it serves. A 100% volunteer organization, FOFK relies on the generosity of individuals who share its vision of creating a brighter future for foster children.

The CDC reports that individuals with physical, intellectual, or learning disabilities are at the greatest risk for obesity and the numerous health problems that go along with it, including diabetes, heart disease, etc. Unfortunately, this problem isn’t easily solved because when it comes to a fitness regimen, most special needs families don’t know where to start. Further, well-known gyms like Lifetime aren’t viable options. They are loud, overwhelming, and intimidating. So, these parents don’t have places to take their sedentary children: an underserved and overlooked population when it comes to fitness, exercise and healthy lifestyles. While I was both teaching and working out with my students after school, I quickly realized that I was tackling an epidemic, and I was doing it alone. The number of families seeking my services grew daily (the word of mouth in the special needs community is very strong and good news travels fast). The need was evident, and the demand was staggering. So, in 2016 I left teaching and opened Inclusively Fit: a gym that specializes in serving the special needs community. In the last seven years, my team and I have served over 250 clients with challenges of cognitive & physical impairment, autism, cerebral palsy, blindness, and Down syndrome. I know Inclusively Fit is a great success from simply the stories and testimonies of the people that know best: the parents. Getting active and losing weight are just part of the story. Parents also reported many other positive changes in their children, from seeing improvements in their listening skills and sleep habits, to their children being more outgoing, willing to try new things and being more social. While these are phenomenal in themselves, the one thing that really sticks with me was they also all told me that their children were simply: happier.

I took action because I worked with this group for nine months last year and the dedication, welcoming nature, support and kindness and problem solving I saw from all staff was absolutely incredible. I truly felt that the commitment to helping those in need in the community was a core goal and that they were willing and available to do so. The work they are doing to break through barriers is such important work and I was grateful to be part of it. The amount of compassion fatigue they must deal with is extremely high and the fact that they still do the work day in and day out deserves to be awarded and appreciated. If I have the chance in the future I would be proud and honored to work with such a talented and organized team. Not only do they create a warm and supportive atmosphere for a team to flourish, they also work together to combat major social barriers in an encouraging environment and a friendly manner. It can be difficult to make friends in communities that are politically divided however, going out of one's comfort zone is highly encouraged but at the same time others are not made to feel ashamed of where they are at which encourages continued growth and progress. Can’t overstate the gratitude I have for the existence of this organization.

Live Rite Structured Corp. has demonstrated their commitment to transforming lives and is undoubtedly a deserving candidate for Nonprofit of the Year. Going above and beyond its specialization of working with individuals in recovery from Substance Use Disorder and Mental Illness, Live Rite now provides FREE transportation to and from meetings and appointments, ensuring that individuals seeking help can access the support they need. The organization has helped more than 54,000 individuals stay warm with free clothing from their boutique, keep food on families' tables through their free food boxes, and find guiding support through free in-house Peer-Recovery Coaching. The organization actively engages with the community by establishing new Recovery-Friendly Workplaces, offering free Narcan distribution and Narcan training, and providing resources to employers, contributing to a safer and more recovery-conducive environment. Live Rite engages with local school districts, organizes monthly events for teens, and tirelessly works towards enhancing the overall quality of life in our community. Live Rite's adaptability and responsiveness shine through in its commitment to meet the evolving needs of the community. By consistently expanding and diversifying the number/type of classes offered, the organization ensures that it stays on top of the current challenges individuals face. Live Rite takes a holistic approach to personal development, meeting individuals where they are and fostering growth. From teaching basic technology skills in the Tech Help class to providing professional expertise and hands-on guidance for crafting impactful resumes, the organization empowers all individuals, specializing in helping individuals on their journey to recovery. Live Rite's dedication extends beyond traditional avenues, demonstrating a comprehensive understanding of the nature of recovery. By teaching new coping skills and encouraging personal growth, Live Rite Structured Corp. embodies the spirit of compassion, resilience, and community enrichment that makes it a standout candidate for Nonprofit of the Year.

Macomb County Habitat for Humanity changes lives. Families who once spent 40-50% of their income on rent, now have mortgages with notes that are hundreds of dollars less. That extra savings has been used to provide better food, education, recreational and college opportunities. The cycle of poverty has been broken. In 2012, the agency was in trouble. Government grants that had relied on a reimbursement model had drained the agency's resources. Hicks and her team made many hard decisions to reverse the trend: 1. The 50,000 square foot ReStore and executive building which generated large heating and electrical bills, was sold. 2. A smaller energy-efficient building was purchased and has generated more income because of its location. 3. Hicks was able to secure a 6,000 square foot building in Warren as a donation - ensuring that overhead would remain low. This store became a 2nd source of income. 3. By building strong relationships with hundreds of businesses and individuals, Hicks secured new donors for the agency. 4. Foundation proposals were generated, and the agency boasted a 94% success-rate. 5. Each department was restructured. Major changes occurred in two. The first was Finance with the removal of staff, - replaced by outsourcing work to an accounting firm that specialized in complex non-profit models. That agency found grant dollars that had not been claimed and saved the company $100,000. Another department that required extensive changes was the partner family department. Decisions about whom could apply had been made by people with little understanding of housing laws. New criteria was put into place allowing everyone to be treated fairly regardless of any characteristic that set them apart, including what county they lived in and what religion they practiced. Guidelines were set and no one was treated differently than another.

Emily Diaz-Torres didn’t set out to found a nonprofit ready to help Macomb County employers through tough years. As the daughter of immigrants, in 2009 she founded the Macomb Immigrant Service Center only because she wanted to help others enjoy the fully American privileges she cherished for herself. For 15 years, without taking a dime of salary for herself, she has gained federal accreditation for MISC’s non-attorney immigration law practice, taught English and Citizenship Preparation classes and steadily earned the trust of local businesses with spot-on hiring recommendations. Those thousands of hours of heart-to-heart assistance — and the expertise and experience gained — make MISC one of the most distinctive advantages and treasures of Macomb County. It can only become more so. In 2024, our county, state and nation face two simultaneous crises: dramatic labor shortages across all economic sectors as baby boomers retire and a continuous stream of asylum seekers and refugees. Or, as described in a recent headline from The New York Times: "The U.S. Economy Is Surpassing Expectations. Immigration Is One Reason. Immigrants aided the pandemic recovery and may be crucial to future needs. The challenges processing newcomers and getting them where the jobs are." Consider this: According to County Executive Mark Hackel, Macomb County government and businesses currently have 48,000 job openings. But Emily Diaz-Torres knows that her county and community could be helping each other. “I know doctors and dentists who are restaurant cooks, a bank manager in landscaping and a corporate manager and a diesel mechanic on the line in factories. Their degrees and licenses were earned abroad, and in Michigan no process is yet created to have them re-certified. “Basically, most Macomb immigrants and refugees saved their lives and left their true skills behind,” she says. “These are skills we need.”

MCREST's impact on Macomb County is substantial, with over 500 individuals experiencing homelessness served annually, including more than 25% children. Since its inception in 1988, MCREST has provided over 2,000,000 meals and more than 680,000 nights of shelter. The organization's commitment to serving the community is reflected in the variety of support it provides, from addressing mental health and physical disabilities to offering flexible schedules and transportation assistance. Total Persons Served in 2022: 651 Here are some statistics that show our community impact: We take in more than 500 individuals experiencing homelessness annually. More than 25% of those that we serve are children. In the past ten years, MCREST served approximately 5,000 people. Nearly 30% of the people we served in the past 10 years managed a mental health disorder. More than 50% of the individuals served, or 2,300 people, were African American. We serve approximately 65,000 meals per year. We have served approximately 650,000 meals in the last 10 years. Nearly 1,000 people served from 2001-2021 were living in a place not fit for habitation, like a vehicle, before coming to MCREST. The following statistic from the State of Michigan outlines the severity of the homelessness crisis in Macomb County. Individuals Experiencing Homelessness - MCTEH Region 10 Region 10: Macomb, Wayne, Oakland, Washtenaw Counties 2022: 9,756 2021: 7,424 Increased 31%

In early 2021, during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, MyCare Health Center worked with regional partners to conduct a community needs assessment for Macomb County. The assessment identified a strong demand for additional, yet affordable dental care in northern Macomb County. To address this need, MyCare was able to secure the monies needed through various foundations and government grants to build out a brand new state-of-the-art dental center inside its Mount Clemens location. The new dental center opened in the summer of 2023 and has since provided dental services to hundreds of patients who otherwise may have had to travel to Center Line to receive their dental care from MyCare. Additionally, because MyCare is recognized as a Patient Centered Medical Home, the new dental center has provided the added benefit for patients to be able to receive their dental services at the same location where they receive their medical care. Furthering its expansion to provide additional services for Macomb’s communities, and in response to the growing opioid epidemic, MyCare also opened in a new specialized Behavioral Health suite next to its Center Line location in late 2023. Staffed with certified peer-recovery coaches and trained counselors for Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT), MyCare is now able to better address this critical need to prevent avoidable deaths and overdoses.

NLF was started to help people who deal with loved ones that have disablities that prevent them from normal life experiences, wether from accident, disease, age, no matter what the situation we can get them out on the water, feel the wind in their face, maybe even catch some fish. NLF averages about 40 trips a year, participants range from 10-99 years of age, quadraplegic to just having limited mobility due to age, and veterans with disabilities. We actively work with local organizations that serve people with disabilities in Macomb and St. Clair County with recreational therapy. Response on every level has been 100% positive, there is really no other service like theirs that do no have fee's associated with the event. Some of our partnerships include the Michigan Bureau of Services for Blind Persons, Disability Network Eastern Michigan, Woodside Bible Special Needs Ministry, DTE Veterans Resource Group, Benefit for Kids, AM Vets-Disabled American Veterans, Clay Township, just to name a few. The founders work in the home modification for mobility challenged individuals industry and saw first hand that anyone with a disability that prevents normal outdoor life activity, regardless of reason, their lives are full of therapy visits, Dr. Visits, basically eliminating anything they enjoyed outdoors before they became disabled. Getting out on the water, feeling a fish tugging on the line, is exhilarating to say the least and family members get to enjoy the experience along with their loved ones. A true Win/Win as we get to enjoy the moments also. One such trip last year, 5 kids ranging in age from 12-16 all legally blind, two totally blind, 3 never even been on a boat in their life, all spent 4 hrs on the St. Clair River, all caught fish!

She took action 10 years ago by creating an organization that worked with human trafficking survivors. But due to a variety of reasons, that organization never got the support needed for human trafficking survivors. So she then created an all natural pet treat business. She already provided quite a bit of food to trafficking survivors along with other needs. She realized that a vast majority of them had pets. Along with a naturopath she worked with for her own health, she discovered just how much help even natural food was for her pets. She started Pawz Kitchen with just 3 types of biscuits and hit a lot of craft shows and outdoor markets. Now about 6 years later, she is in her first commercial kitchen and makes over 20 plus products for dogs and cats. She still helps survivors how she can. Right now it’s with foods since that’s what she has access to. But as business increases, she will no doubt increase that too. She never slows down. Now she is just getting into her store, and even though she has been slowed down in some aspects, her passion is still doing whatever she can for those who have been trafficked. Her heart is with those survivors who have left and been out of the life for at least two years. To her, they seem to be the ones who struggle the most just starting off in what seems to be a normal life. So she helps their support animals and helps how she is able. Currently it is to make sure they are able to eat. With her new commercial kitchen it has been very costly for her and it breaks her heart not to be where she would like, but she pushes on.

RESULTS Mentoring exemplifies the core values and objectives of the selected nonprofit category through its unwavering dedication to mentoring, redirection and tutoring. Motivated by Charles Thomas, Jr., their CEO, a Macomb County resident and prior winner of mentor of the year with the Michigan Community Service Commission, RESULTS Mentoring has implemented a range of impactful initiatives aimed at addressing the critical needs of our youth. Through strategic planning and collaborative efforts, RESULTS Mentoring has pioneered innovative solutions to help channel negative behaviors of young people and redirect them to positive happenings including making better choices in life and learning a trade or skill. They have demonstrated a deep understanding of the root causes and complexities associated with the youth in our region. The measurable results achieved by RESULTS Mentoring underscore its effectiveness and impact in this area. For instance, 80% of the students who complete the program are less likely to get kicked out of school again, 95% said that the program helped them to make better life decisions and since 2007, student test scores have increased an average of 29% after completing the program. Moreover, the organization's commitment to transparency and accountability is reflected in its rigorous evaluation processes, which consistently validate the positive outcomes of its interventions. By fostering partnerships, empowering individuals, and advocating for systemic change, the organization is building a more equitable and inclusive future for all. In summary, RESULTS Mentoring is a trailblazer in the nonprofit of the year category for Macomb County. They are driven by a profound sense of purpose and a steadfast commitment to creating meaningful and lasting change. Its innovative strategies, measurable impact, and dedication to advancing youth make it a deserving candidate for recognition in this esteemed nonprofit category.

Saving Destiny Animal Rescue, a standout nominee for the Macomb Business Awards, distinctly aligns with the criteria for the Non Profit of the year category. Fueled by a profound commitment to animal welfare, Saving Destiny has taken decisive action to address the most challenging cases within the realm of rescue – injured and pregnant animals. The organization's mission goes beyond conventional rescue efforts, actively seeking out and providing a sanctuary for the most vulnerable creatures in southeast Michigan. Saving Destiny's measurable results highlight its impact, with an eclectic mix of puppies, cats, reptiles, rabbits and farm animals currently under their care, showcasing a tangible commitment to the well-being of animals facing significant challenges. This quantitative evidence underscores the organization's effectiveness in providing refuge for those often overlooked by conventional rescue efforts. The nominee's dedication extends beyond immediate rescue efforts. Saving Destiny actively engages in educational outreach programs, fostering awareness about responsible pet ownership. This not only aligns with the award criteria but also demonstrates a commitment to creating a more informed and compassionate community. In summary, Saving Destiny Animal Rescue's actions, particularly in rescuing 595 of hardest cases and providing measurable results, while running on a shoestring budget, exemplify a profound commitment to community impact. The organization's story could serve as a valuable "case study" or "blueprint" for others inspired to achieve similar goals, making it a compelling nominee for the Community Impact category.

The founder's passion and dedication to making others smile and feel loved is evident in all their work. Susie Q's Kids was founded following the tragic loss of their daughter Susie McBride-Welsh to address the mental health and well-being of kids in need. Susie loved children, giving back, and due to lengthy hospital stays understood the value of a teddy bear, blanket, and coloring books. Their bags provide comfort to kids in various stages of trauma and are tailored to the needs of the kids in the various nonprofits they support, some contain hygiene kits, grief material, and/or sensory items. Through their bags, books, speaking engagements, and platform to raise hope and healing, Susie Q's Kids was named the Community Partner of the Year by the American Foundation of Suicide Prevention, AFSP, and nominated as Advocate of the Year by the National Alliance of Mental Illness, NAMI, sharing messages on the Power of Positivity, It's OK not to be OK, and suicide awareness and prevention. They were awarded 2023 Best of MichBusiness Nonprofit award and Top-rated on Greatnonprofits for the third-year. They are committed to furthering the missions of other non-profits, engaging our kids in "Kids Helping Kids,” and providing kids hope and healing. The nonprofits include hospitals, hospices, shelters, foster care, kids dealing with autism or disabilities, advocacy centers, schools, camps, and those grieving the loss of loved ones "One comfort bag at a time -Love in a Bag.” Their 2024 goals include placing bags in first responder vehicles: deputies, police, fire, EMS responders, and funeral homes, and expanding their reach in hospice agencies. Susie Q's Kids in collaboration with Undersheriff Liz Darga piloted its first responder bag program with the Macomb County Sheriff's Department with bags in their cars, deputies can help kids when they are most vulnerable.

Among other accomplishments in 2023, Turning Point CEO Sharman Davenport and her team collaborated with the Macomb County Sheriff’s Department on a wide-scale Southeast Michigan human trafficking ring, providing immediate shelter and ongoing assistance to the individuals being trafficked. They also played a role in efforts by the Michigan Attorney General’s office to pass the Address Protection Program Act, shielding the home address of survivors by offering an alternative contact method, as well as the Red Flag gun law, limiting convicted abusers’ access to firearms. In January 2024, Turning Point announced that, with the support of a local church, it will open a nine-bedroom, 27-bed shelter providing additional emergency shelter options for human trafficking survivors. It will also add 12 housing units, bringing the total to 20 apartments dedicated to helping human trafficking survivors transition to a life free of exploitation. Safe and stable housing is the greatest barrier to escaping an abuser and creating a life without sexual violence. Since the housing programs began in 2020, 97% of survivors completing the full-time program (12 or 24 months) have transitioned into permanent affordable housing with their families. 70% are employed; 30% are receiving entitlements with Turning Point’s assistance, increasing their chances for long-term stability; 22% obtained their GED and 17% obtained a higher education degree or certification. Since 1996, Turning Point has provided prevention programs and community education to raise awareness about domestic violence, sexual violence, and human trafficking and work to end this violence before it begins. The organization’s broader awareness messaging for 2024 includes the increasing lethality of domestic violence, sexual violence, and human trafficking and the rising frequency and severity of abuse since 2020.

It is my belief that Urban Seed should be Nonprofit of the Year. The group is 100% volunteer run. The group is 100% positive vibes. In recent years they have expanded the garden to produce more fruits and vegetables, thanks to many volunteers and sponsors. This year they donated over 1,000 pounds of food! This past year 22 new raised garden beds were built, and they plan to build 14 more this year! They have taken action because they know there are always people in need of fresh food. They have taken action because there was a place in the community to do so. And they have taken action because they want to make their community a better place. Not only does the group love planting fruits and vegetables at the Urban Seed, but they also love to share their knowledge with others so that they can grow produce at their own homes. Their Facebook page and website are great places to learn. The Urban Seed will be vital to the City of Eastpointe when the Nine Mile road diet is complete. An urban garden is perfect for a walkable business district in the City, and it will encourage folks to get outside and meet some new neighbors. Over the summer, even our Lieutenant Governor Garlin Gilchrist stopped by the garden to see what all the excitement was about! Many of the volunteers for the group not only volunteer their time at the Urban Seed, but also for other groups in the community. It is truly a group trying to bring together the community, and succeeding! They are looking forward to the 2024 season, and breaking their 2023 harvest record.

Melvenna is a CEO and Founder of her own non-profit organization called WHEAT, INC, - Women Healing Eternally And Transforming (www.wheatorganization.com) WHEAT, INC provides support services for survivors of domestic violence, human trafficking, and sexual assault, as well as youth and families experiencing homelessness. Melvenna through her organization helps vulnerable families survive crisis, rebuild their lives, and achieve brighter futures by providing various supportive services for these individuals/families as they go through transitional periods in their lives. WHEAT helps individuals and families that are amid significant life-altering changes. WHEAT puts on “Back to School Rallies” as well as a beautiful 4th of July display each year. Next, WHEAT gives away Thanksgiving Baskets complete with a full meal for the holiday to low-income families. Additionally, WHEAT also sponsors low-income families during the Christmas Holiday and provides toys, clothes, shoes, books and other items the families need. In collaboration with other non-profits, WHEAT conducts a yearly Community Baby Shower for homeless/low-income women and pregnant teens. They give away car seats, strollers, diaper bags filled with diapers, wipes, bottles, lotion, baby powder and clothes to the moms. Each mother also receives a gift bag prepared especially for them. During this event, lunch is included. Melvenna also works as a mentor and minister for battered and abused children. Melvenna through WHEAT volunteers her time with the children every week. Melvenna feeds them, celebrates their birthdays with desserts and gifts as well as Christmas gifts. Furthermore, with another organization Melvenna takes battered and abused children away to a week-long camp where they can love them, and mentor the children who are just trying to navigate life and the trauma they have experienced. Link: freep.com/story/sports/columnists/jeff-seidel/2019/04/18/delorean-ishmon-ii-northwood-university-football/3500838002/