Join us at the Goei Center to recognize and celebrate local nonprofit professionals in the Grand Rapids area!
Get ready to celebrate changemakers across West Michigan at the Young Nonprofit Professionals Network of Greater Grand Rapids’ Annual Leadership Awards — an unforgettable night honoring those who are leading change in the nonprofit community in West Michigan.
Theme: Bridges of Impact
This year’s theme highlights how nonprofits are creating vital connections across communities, disciplines, and cultures to drive lasting change.
🌟 Event Highlights:
Recognition across 8 award categories celebrating nonprofit excellence
Inspiring stories from visionary leaders, grassroots changemakers, and dedicated volunteers
Dinner provided
1 complimentary drink ticket (cash bar available)
Networking with nonprofit professionals, leaders, and community advocates
Whether you’re a seasoned nonprofit professional or just getting started, this is your opportunity to connect, be inspired, and celebrate the individuals and organizations making a real difference in our region.
| 6:00 pm | Reception 1 Drink Ticket Chips & Salsa |
| 7:00 pm | Program Begins Welcome and Opening Remarks |
| 7:05 pm | Taco Buffet Dinner (Tables will be dismissed) 2 Tacos per person: corn tortilla Protein/Vegetarian choice: chicken, pork, mushrooms Toppings: Lettuce, onion, cilantro, guacamole, sour cream Chips and salsa |
| 7:15 pm | Program Resumes Panel Discussion, Moderated by Jimmy Sherrills Dee Dee Taylor Jamiel Robinson Kelsey Purdue |
| 7:45 pm | Awards Presentation Advocate Award Innovator Award Good to Great Award Unsung Here Award Excellence & Achievement Award Rising Star Award Hidden Treasure Award Young Nonprofit Professional Award of the Year |
| 8:45 pm | Closing Remarks |
| 9:00 pm | Program Concludes *All Finalists and Winners please present to the stage for a photo |
Panelists
Panel discussion moderated by Jimmy Sherrills
Bio: Dee Dee Taylor
Dee Dee Taylor is the founder of Taylor Made Re-Entry, a nonprofit providing no-cost resources, legal services, and long-term support for returning citizens after incarceration. Her work addresses racial inequities in the criminal justice system, particularly the disproportionate incarceration of African American men in Michigan, by helping individuals and families thrive post-release.
Professionally and in the community, she combats systemic barriers through education, job training, stability planning, and advocacy to shift societal perceptions of formerly incarcerated people. Dee Dee has also contributed to housing initiatives with Home Repair Services and AmplifyGR, and has been an outspoken advocate for dismantling structural injustices following the death of Breonna Taylor.Her leadership, vision, and compassion have created lasting impact in Grand Rapids, bridging gaps in re-entry services and helping individuals reclaim purpose and stability in their lives.
Bio: Jamiel Robinson
Jamiel Robinson, President and CEO of Grand Rapids Area Black Businesses (GRABB), is a visionary leader dedicated to advancing Black entrepreneurship and creating a more equitable economy in West Michigan. Beyond GRABB, he leads and co-owns several ventures, including Isle Construction, Motu Viget Spirits, Motu Lakeshore Wine Bar, Prohibition Cocktail Bar, and Sip Coffee & Cocktail, all of which foster collaboration and opportunity across communities.
Widely recognized by outlets such as Crain’s and The Guardian, Jamiel has received honors including 40 Under 40 and West Michigan’s 200 Most Influential Business Leaders. His bold, innovative leadership—rooted in service, community building, and challenging the status quo—embodies the spirit of the Bridges of Impact Leadership Awards and this year’s theme of building bridges that connect and empower.
Bio: Kelsey Perdue
Commissioner Kelsey Perdue is a passionate advocate for equity, innovation, and community well-being through her leadership at Corewell Health and service to Grand Rapids’ 3rd Ward. She champions small businesses, addresses root causes of violence, and uplifts youth while ensuring equity is central to her work. Known for her compassion and boldness in driving change, Kelsey exemplifies excellence and achievement as a nonprofit leader committed to the city’s future.
Award Finalists
Advocate Award
The Advocate Award goes to a passionate individual, constantly talking about their cause and raising awareness each and every day. They are a tireless staff member or volunteer that never stops working towards the mission.
| Jose Rodriguez | José’s life and work demonstrate a strong dedication to advancing diversity, equity, inclusion, and anti-racism, consistently centering the voices of marginalized communities. He shows up authentically in protests, meetings, and personal relationships, using his platform to amplify others and drive tangible change with humility and accountability. Professionally and personally, José bridges grassroots organizing and institutional leadership, proving that organizers can build movements, step into politics, and create lasting impact. As a Grand Rapids Public Schools Board of Education member, he advocates for equity in education, ensuring student and family voices are heard in decision-making. He also serves on the ICE Rapid Response Team, helping immigrant communities feel safe and supported during moments of crisis. His leadership, shaped by lived experience, emphasizes youth empowerment, mentorship, and relationship-building. Through Rooted and other initiatives, he creates spaces where young people are uplifted as leaders and communities can thrive. José’s presence is both grounding and inspiring, marked by deep trust, compassion, and a collective approach to leadership. His unwavering dedication to justice and equity makes him an invaluable leader whose impact strengthens both local communities and broader movements for change. |
| Ja’Keem Badger | Ja’Keem is deeply committed to advancing diversity, equity, inclusion, and anti-racism through both his professional work and volunteerism. He focuses on eliminating systemic disparities in food insecurity and education, facilitating anti-racist training, and supporting students and families of color through sustainable, community-driven initiatives. Professionally, he has managed affordable, locally-sourced markets and educational programs, including a Mobile Market for homebound residents and farm-to-table lessons for preschoolers. In his current role, he connects farmers and markets with social and economic resources, expanding access to fresh produce and empowering communities across Kent County and Michigan. Ja’Keem demonstrates leadership through co-chairing the Essential Needs Task Force’s Food and Nutrition Coalition and Health Equity and Community Power Action Team, serving on multiple nonprofit boards, and volunteering with youth and mentorship programs. He is also active in Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, contributing to community service and development. |
| Emilio Zamarripo | Emilio is a thoughtful, inclusive leader who ensures all voices are heard. Through his role at Steepletown, where he has served for 16 years and now as Executive Director, he has expanded mentorship and workforce development initiatives in partnership with MichiganWorks, supporting youth in preparing for adulthood. His involvement with the Latino Community Coalition allows him to advocate at the state level for young adults navigating the workforce. Emilio’s long-standing commitment to advocacy, equity, and youth development makes him a strong candidate for this award. |
Innovator Award
The Innovator Award goes to an individual who thinks outside the box. They find new creative solutions to old problems and are not afraid to make waves whether they have been in their role for 10 days or 10 years.
| Karla Velis Brito | Karla is dedicated to advancing equity by ensuring historically excluded communities have the resources and support needed for entrepreneurship and business ownership. As a leader at SpringGR, she has reimagined and expanded services, most notably through the creation of Next Level programming to help entrepreneurs of color grow their businesses and thrive in Grand Rapids’ entrepreneurial ecosystem. Known for her vision and follow-through, Karla actively fosters diverse connections and isn’t afraid to engage in necessary conversations that drive meaningful change. |
| Jamiel Robinson | Jamiel Robinson, President and CEO of Grand Rapids Area Black Businesses (GRABB), is a visionary leader dedicated to advancing Black entrepreneurship and creating a more equitable economy in West Michigan. Beyond GRABB, he leads and co-owns several ventures, including Isle Construction, Motu Viget Spirits, Motu Lakeshore Wine Bar, Prohibition Cocktail Bar, and Sip Coffee & Cocktail, all of which foster collaboration and opportunity across communities. Widely recognized by outlets such as Crain’s and The Guardian, Jamiel has received honors including 40 Under 40 and West Michigan’s 200 Most Influential Business Leaders. His bold, innovative leadership—rooted in service, community building, and challenging the status quo—embodies the spirit of the Bridges of Impact Leadership Awards and this year’s theme of building bridges that connect and empower. |
| Kyle Szucs | Kyle, a Philanthropy Specialist at Kids’ Food Basket, advances equity by building relationships with corporate and individual donors to address food insecurity. He also fosters collaboration and community through co-hosting the Known Profits Podcast and co-chairing the local Drinks and Development networking group, both of which connect and strengthen nonprofit organizations. |
Good to Great Award
The Good to Great Award goes to an individual that has moved an organization or program from good to great. This means that they are ‘moving the needle’ in their sector. From process improvement, to holding their peers and superiors to a higher standard, a good to great nominee works hard and continues to strive to improve their own work and the work of their organization.
| Renida Clark | Renida Clark, Senior Director of Programs at WMCAT, is dedicated to advancing equity through workforce development. She launched WMCAT’s tuition-free Cybersecurity career pathway, achieving a 92% graduation rate in its first year and helping graduates secure thriving-wage jobs while diversifying the tech talent pipeline. Since joining WMCAT in 2021, Renida has advanced from community resource navigator to senior leadership, drawing on her experience at GRCC and her commitment to creating equitable access to opportunity. |
| Megan Ouding | Megan, Foster Puppy Training Coordinator at Paws With A Cause, exemplifies innovation, equity, and compassion in her leadership. Drawing from her own experience as a longtime volunteer, she has transformed the foster program by expanding training resources, tailoring support to diverse learning styles, and launching the innovative “Golden Opportunity” initiative to increase assistance dog success rates. Managing more than 150 volunteers, Megan fosters an inclusive, supportive culture where everyone feels valued, while also mentoring, creating community, and sharing authentic insights through her “FARLEY Fails” series. Her leadership has strengthened PAWS’ impact nationwide, ensuring more dogs graduate as life-changing partners for clients with disabilities. From teenage volunteer to program leader, Megan’s journey reflects her resilience, vision, and lifelong dedication to service—qualities that make her a standout candidate for the Good to Great Award. |
| Brittany Schultz | Brittany demonstrates a strong commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and anti-racism through her work, volunteerism, and community engagement. She joined Muskegon LEAD to address equity and justice issues and has ensured that the expansion of the New Beginnings program on the Lakeshore is inclusive and accessible, removing barriers by securing partnerships that provide free family visits and transportation. Professionally, she has grown the New Beginnings program by increasing visibility, building a strong volunteer base, securing funding, and establishing a trauma-informed office space. Her efforts have tripled volunteer participation and expanded resources and opportunities for participants, creating lasting community impact. Brittany’s leadership includes mobilizing volunteers, cultivating cross-sector partnerships, and inspiring others to advance the organization’s mission. Her innovative collaborations, like partnering with a local farm to provide enriching experiences, highlight both strategic thinking and compassion. Through her work with Muskegon LEAD, she also contributes to broader community efforts to dismantle discrimination and promote equity. Overall, Brittany stands out as a passionate, innovative, and dedicated nonprofit leader whose work consistently expands opportunity, strengthens community impact, and models equity-centered leadership. |
Unsung Hero Award
The Unsung Hero Award goes to someone who positively influences a nonprofit organization from behind the scenes. Whether a staff member or a dedicated volunteer, they work tirelessly to support their cause, and rarely stand in the spotlight.
| Erika Vandyke | Erika is a quiet yet powerful leader whose work is deeply rooted in equity, justice, and community care. She consistently centers the voices of those most impacted, ensuring inclusion in strategy, decision-making, and resource allocation. Through her leadership in the Latino Community Coalition, LA LUCHA Fund, education justice efforts, and events like the Pride Festival, Erika has brought clarity, structure, and compassion to complex initiatives. Known for her ability to balance vision with execution, she uplifts others while advancing equity-focused change. Though often behind the scenes, Erika’s steady, strategic, and inclusive leadership has created lasting impact, making her highly deserving of recognition. |
| Dee Dee Taylor | Dee Dee Taylor is the founder of Taylor Made Re-Entry, a nonprofit providing no-cost resources, legal services, and long-term support for returning citizens after incarceration. Her work addresses racial inequities in the criminal justice system, particularly the disproportionate incarceration of African American men in Michigan, by helping individuals and families thrive post-release. Professionally and in the community, she combats systemic barriers through education, job training, stability planning, and advocacy to shift societal perceptions of formerly incarcerated people. Dee Dee has also contributed to housing initiatives with Home Repair Services and AmplifyGR, and has been an outspoken advocate for dismantling structural injustices following the death of Breonna Taylor. Her leadership, vision, and compassion have created lasting impact in Grand Rapids, bridging gaps in re-entry services and helping individuals reclaim purpose and stability in their lives. |
| Atabia Williams | Atabia demonstrates an exceptional commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and anti-racism through her professional role, volunteerism, and personal life. She created the Black and Brown Maternal Health Advocacy Toolkit to address inequities in birthing outcomes, co-founded EmpowerHer to provide culturally relevant sexual health education, and trains women of color as doulas through the Day One Doula Collective. She also coordinates community events such as Bumps & Babes and breastfeeding education programs, while advocating for historically marginalized groups. Professionally, Atabia rose quickly from Administrative Assistant to Administrative Director at Baxter Community Center, where she is known as the “glue” that keeps the organization running with her problem-solving skills, leadership, and supportive presence. She completed the Urban Core Collective’s Transformational Leadership Program, continues her education in sexual health, and partners with multiple community organizations to address systemic disparities. Atabia leads by example, modeling professionalism and compassion, while intentionally creating safe spaces for dialogue and equity-focused initiatives. Despite her young age, she is deeply respected for her drive, empathy, and wisdom. The Grand Rapids community is stronger and more inclusive because of her contributions. |
Excellence & Achievement Award
The Excellence & Achievement Award honors an experienced leader in the nonprofit industry of West Michigan; someone who consistently sets an example for the next generation of nonprofit leaders. These individuals are considered mentors, friends, and an inspiration to young nonprofit professionals.
| Kelsey Perdue | Commissioner Kelsey Perdue is a passionate advocate for equity, innovation, and community well-being through her leadership at Corewell Health and service to Grand Rapids’ 3rd Ward. She champions small businesses, addresses root causes of violence, and uplifts youth while ensuring equity is central to her work. Known for her compassion and boldness in driving change, Kelsey exemplifies excellence and achievement as a nonprofit leader committed to the city’s future. |
| Ellen Zwarensteyn | Ellen Zwarensteyn, Executive Director of the Michigan Center for Civic Education (MCCE), is a passionate advocate for equitable access to civic education in schools across Michigan. For more than eight years, she has led MCCE in providing impactful student programs like Mock Trial, We the People, and Project Citizen, as well as professional development opportunities for teachers. Ellen’s leadership has inspired countless students to become active, informed community members, and she is widely recognized as both an organizer and mentor. Beyond her role at MCCE, Ellen extends her commitment to equity by serving on the Board of Directors for Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services in Grand Rapids, working to ensure equal access, education, and advocacy. Her dedication, vision, and mentorship make her a standout leader in both the nonprofit and education sectors. |
| Bex Takacs-Britz | Bex is a passionate advocate for diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility, leading by example to create safe and welcoming spaces through mentoring, volunteering, and national service leadership roles. They recently earned a Master’s in Philanthropy & Nonprofit Leadership at GVSU, began a new role in fundraising at the American Red Cross, and are now pursuing a doctorate in Organizational Change Leadership at WMU. With a career fully dedicated to the nonprofit sector, Bex supports human rights, education, and equity by consulting nonprofits, expanding student volunteer opportunities, and holding leadership positions locally and nationally. Known for their tireless dedication, compassion, and ability to inspire others, Bex embodies the spirit of servant leadership and is deeply deserving of this recognition. |
Rising Star Award
The Rising Star Award recognizes a nonprofit organization located in Grand Rapids and/or serving the West Michigan area that has been in operation for five years or less. Organizations nominated for this category deserve recognition for the large amount of impact they’ve made in a short amount of time.
| Cultivating Futures | Cultivating Futures is a youth-focused nonprofit rooted in diversity, equity, inclusion, and anti-racism. Founded to support families facing systemic barriers, the organization designs culturally responsive, trauma-informed, and accessible programs that empower young people to thrive. Professionally, they’ve developed impactful mentorship and educational initiatives that ensure underserved youth have equitable access to growth opportunities. In the community, they build strong partnerships with schools, nonprofits, and families, while centering youth leadership by creating spaces for participants to mentor, advocate, and lead. Through inclusive programming, active community presence, and a ripple effect of empowerment, Cultivating Futures has quickly become a rising leader in West Michigan’s nonprofit sector. Founder Mikisha’s recent 4-H volunteer role expands this mission further, connecting even more youth to opportunities for success. |
| Upcycle Bikes | Upcycle Bikes advances diversity, equity, inclusion, and anti-racism by removing transportation barriers for individuals with financial constraints. Through collecting donated bikes, refurbishing them with staff and volunteers, and distributing them at no cost via more than 50 partner organizations in West Michigan, the nonprofit ensures that affordable and accessible transportation reaches those who need it most. This work promotes independence, opportunity, and connection for community members who may otherwise face systemic barriers to mobility. |
| Pleasant Peninsula | Pleasant Peninsula Mural Festival is a nonprofit organization in Grand Rapids, Michigan, dedicated to weaving together environmental education, public art, and community engagement. Founded in 2022 by muralist Eddie Chaffer (joined by co-director Erika Collin), it started small–one ecology-themed mural, booths with local artists, environmental groups, music, and talks—but has quickly grown into something much larger. Now, in 2025, Pleasant Peninsula is hosting Grand Rapids’ first-ever national mural festival, commissioning 21 murals across downtown, each depicting a different species from Michigan’s Threatened & Endangered list. The festival is free and family-friendly, featuring live music, local vendors, speaker series, kids’ activities, conservation partners, and many opportunities for people to connect with and care about Michigan’s ecology. More than just art, the festival works to make conservation accessible—through public art that rights barriers to access, celebrates native ecosystems, and strengthens community connections. |
Hidden Treasure Award
The Hidden Treasure Award honors a nonprofit organization located in Grand Rapids and/or serving the West Michigan area. The organization should demonstrate a substantial impact in its mission area while keeping DEIA at the forefront of its work. This organization may rarely stand in the spotlight but deserves recognition for its positive influence on and dedication to the community.
| Kent County Michigan State University Extension | Kent County MSU Extension demonstrates a strong, ongoing commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging through required multicultural training, annual civil rights sessions, and quarterly accountability reporting. Their professional and community impact is significant: in 2024 alone, they partnered with 112 organizations, delivered 156 programs, and reached over 67,000 participants in areas such as youth development, financial literacy, mental health, horticulture, and food systems. Though often overlooked and misunderstood, Kent County MSU Extension has been a key driver in strengthening Michigan’s $246.5 billion food and agriculture economy through statewide events, consultations, and community-focused programs. Their leadership spans initiatives such as Teen Mental Health First Aid at Wyoming High School, 4-H youth development programs, SNAP-Ed cooking and nutrition classes for underserved communities, financial literacy support for youth youth and adults, and a wide range of community education efforts. By integrating education, outreach, and service, Kent County MSU Extension not only strengthens Michigan’s agriculture economy but also promotes long-term community well-being, making it a vital yet often underrecognized asset. |
| Puerto Rican Cultural Committee | The Puerto Rican Cultural Connection (PRCC) is dedicated to uplifting Puerto Rican voices and building cultural presence in Grand Rapids. Through intentional advocacy and community events, PRCC creates space for Puerto Ricans to stay connected to their culture and one another while away from the island. Their impact includes helping secure the naming of Roberto Clemente Park, offering scholarships to college-bound students, and organizing cultural events that celebrate heritage and strengthen community ties. Recently, they secured a major grant to expand their Dansa Boricua classes, teaching Puerto Rican dance to young children. PRCC’s efforts not only preserve culture but also foster belonging, connection, and pride for Puerto Ricans in West Michigan. |
| Korean Connection | Korean Connection exemplifies diversity, equity, inclusion, and anti-racism by creating a welcoming space for the Korean community and building bridges across cultures in West Michigan. The organization is made up of Korean nationals, adoptees, families, students, veterans, and others connected to Korea, all working to strengthen cultural ties and understanding. Their programs include the Liberation Day Picnic, Korean cultural celebrations, mentorship through a K-Culture Club, and participation in the GR Public Museum Cultural Heritage Festival. As West Michigan lacks a Korean cultural center, Korean Connection serves as a vital convener for cultural exchange, support, and community. Though often under-recognized, their leadership and programs provide a lifeline for Korean Americans and adoptees while enriching the wider community. |
Young Nonprofit Professional of the Year Award
The Young Nonprofit Professional of the Year Award represents an individual who embodies all of these award categories and more! They always go above and beyond for their cause, are always looking for a new way to make nonprofit service better and are an overall excellent nonprofit professional.
| Rocio Rodriguez | Rocio, a Latina leader deeply rooted in her community, is dedicated to advancing equity and supporting immigrant families in building connection and access to resources. In less than six months as Executive Director, she has expanded the Cesar Chavez Farmers Market with more BIPOC farmers, organized safe neighborhood initiatives, hosted immigration advocacy conversations, and built trust with law enforcement to protect her community. Her leadership also includes co-founding El Barrio’s Trunk or Treat and years of work with KSSN, demonstrating excellence in both education and nonprofit leadership. Though new in her role, Rocio’s decade-long presence and commitment to her neighborhood make her a trusted, visionary leader deserving of recognition. |
| Stephanie Deible | Stephanie Deible, Program and Partnership Manager at the Michigan Nonprofit Association, is a passionate advocate for equity, accessibility, and the nonprofit sector. She leads MNA’s DEI Assessment program, collaborates on advocacy training, and brings valuable lived experience as a wheelchair user, educating peers about disability history and inclusion. Previously, she served as Executive Director of Ms. Wheelchair America, advancing disability leadership, and as Community Inclusion Specialist with Disability Network West Michigan. Stephanie’s leadership extends to serving on the Michigan Statewide Independent Living Council and as a Grant Public Schools Board of Education member, where she championed DEI in her community. At MNA, Stephanie has strengthened member benefits, launched statewide training initiatives, and supported hundreds of nonprofits, moving the organization from good to great. A steadfast, humble leader, she exemplifies advocacy, innovation, and dedication to creating a more inclusive sector and community. |
| Markesha Witherspoon | The Moms Club of Grand Rapids, led by Markesha Witherspoon, demonstrates a strong commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and anti-racism by creating a welcoming environment for women of all backgrounds, identities, and experiences. The organization shows up across neighborhoods with consistent support and family-centered events that foster belonging and connection. Markesha is described as a passionate, dedicated leader who often puts the needs of others before her own to ensure the organization thrives. Her care for people is evident in the time, energy, and heart she invests, always working with gratitude and purpose to make a difference in the lives of others. Under her leadership, the Moms Club has hosted impactful community events and resource programs such as back-to-school giveaways, the Milk Crawl, Parent Cafés, the Bridge Walk for Autism, lunch-and-learn sessions, and car seat distributions. These efforts not only provide resources but also strengthen the community through education, inclusion, and support. Markesha’s work ethic, compassion, and dedication to service make her and the Moms Club of Grand Rapids deserving of recognition for their meaningful contributions. |
Kevin Allen
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