Gov. Gretchen Whitmer and the Michigan Community Service Commission announced the 42 winners who will be honored at the 2023 Governor’s Service Awards on Nov. 28 at the Fox Theatre in Detroit.
Steelcase was one of the three firms to be named in the social impact category.
Individuals, businesses, and nonprofit organizations will also be honored for their commitment to volunteerism, service, or philanthropy.
“Michiganders roll up their sleeves to help their communities and always have each other’s backs,” said Governor Whitmer. “That spirit of service and selflessness defines us and demonstrates the power of getting things done for the people and places you love most. Every year, we come together to honor those extraordinary Michiganders who go above and beyond to serve their community and this year is no different. I look forward to meeting and celebrating all the awardees from across Michigan and hearing their stories.”
The Michigan Community Service Commission will host the 2023 Governor's Service Awards on Nov. 28, 7 p.m. at the Fox Theatre in Detroit. Admission to the event is free, but please register to attend.
To recognize those who go above and beyond, the Governor's Service Awards have been presented since 1994. The Michigan Community Service Commission supports Michigan volunteers, organizations, and businesses that are committed to service and play a critical role in improving the lives of our people and communities.
Steelcase's social innovation
"At Steelcase," the company says, "we empower people to dream bigger, approach problems creatively and be a force for good in the world. By using our resources and partnering with other impact-driven organizations, we’re creating new opportunities that help more people reach their full potential. Together, we’re reinforcing our commitment, raising the bar, and reimagining the future."
People + Purpose: People have the power to impact and transform lives. Steelcase connects individuals to purpose because together, every person can move the needle on social impact.
Communities of Belonging: Breakthrough ideas are possible when organizations foster a culture of belonging. Steelcase identifies and connects changemakers, leverages their insights, and amplifies their learnings around the globe.
Inspire Growth: While individuals can effect change in the short term, lasting, far-reaching change happens at the systematic level. Steelcase identifies opportunities for impact with all of its stakeholders: employees, customers, investors, suppliers, and communities.
The winners include:
Corporate Social Impact Award: Steelcase (Grand Rapids), Kellanova (Battle Creek), The Mitten Brewing Company (Grand Rapids)
Governor George Romney Lifetime Achievement Award: Helen Knar Cirrito (East Lansing)
Lifetime Humanitarian Award: Roland Hwang (Northville)
Excellence in Philanthropy Award: Fred A. and Barbara M. Erb Family Foundation (Birmingham), Gilbert Family Foundation (Detroit)
Spirit of Hope Award: Tracy Edwards (Lansing), Jeremiah Steen (Detroit), John Zaretti (Canton), Bruce Millan and Barbara Busby (Detroit)
Youth Volunteer of the Year: Vishal Swamy (Novi), Skyler McAlpine (Warren), Sawyer Hendrickson (Ludington), Mason Schlafer (Norton Shores), Julian Morris (Saginaw)
Volunteer of the Year: Moussa Niang (Detroit), Diane Young (Benton Harbor), Marcia Gonstead (Big Bay), Cisily Zuniga (Muskegon), Bob Hoffman (East Lansing)
Older Adult Volunteer of the Year: E.T. Buck (South Haven), Brenda J. Byrd (Ypsilanti), Ann Heler (Ferndale), Robert Spencer (Battle Creek), Eleanor Lopez (Mt. Pleasant), Ursulina (Nina) Gulledge (Roscommon)
Youth Impact Award: Sgt. Bryant George (Detroit), My Sister's Keeper (Highland Park), Northeast Michigan Community Service Agency - School Success Partnership Program (Alpena), Gro-Town (Grosse Pointe Woods), Grand Haven High School Interact Club (Grand Haven)
Community Impact Award: Andrew Rickauer (Marquette), Andrea Garcia Ryan (DeWitt), Bread of Life Food Pantry (Baldwin), Suicide Survivors Fund (Marquette), Women of Colors (Saginaw)
National Service Impact Award: Diana Rodriguez-Algra (Lansing), Carolyn Bloodworth (Jackson), Kyle Caldwell (Grand Rapids), Julie Calley (Portland), Sam Singh (East Lansing)
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