Operation United: Serving those who’ve served

For more than five years now, our local business community and United Way have joined forces to create a day that embodies the power of unity and compassion.

It's a day where the noise of power tools and laughter intertwines, where sleeves are rolled up, and hearts are opened wide. Welcome to Operation United, a day where we roll out the welcome mat of gratitude for those who have selflessly served our nation.

Early Friday morning, our dedicated teams eagerly reported for duty at their assigned home projects. With a clear and sunny sky, and spirits high, they donned matching shirts and armed themselves with determination, ready to tackle the task of transforming the outdoor spaces of 22 veteran homes and making them safe, accessible, and enjoyable.

In partnership with Home Depot, the day's agenda was packed with tasks both big and small across the region. From repairing fences to painting porches, every action was a step towards honoring our veterans and showing them the appreciation that they deserve. But Operation United isn't just about physical renovations and hard work; it's about the intangible moments of connection, sentiment, and camaraderie that make this day truly special.

As our volunteers arrived at the homes of our veteran neighbors, they were met with smiles, stories, and an outpouring of gratitude. Each conversation was a reminder of the sacrifices made by those who have served and a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. Alongside them, our team of ambassadors, including Jamie Liebler from LPIT Solutions, Hannah Shaner from Berger Chevrolet, and Kevin Nelson from Heart of West Michigan United Way journeyed through the community, extending thanks to volunteer teams, and sharing moments with the veterans themselves.

One particularly poignant moment took place at Warren’s home, a 90-year-old retired Army veteran. As volunteers began working to revitalize his yards, his voice filled with pride and nostalgia as he shared tales of his military service and cherished memories with his late wife. He expressed his fears about how he would maintain his home in his older years. Yet, amidst the camaraderie of the day, a special moment was shared as Warren declared, “I look around today and just know that I am going to be okay.”

Similarly, at LaDonna’s house, a Marine Corps veteran, volunteers were touched by her unwavering strength and positivity in the face of adversity. The team from Flexco worked tirelessly to restore her garden beds and dismantle a worn-out deck, while LaDonna shared her personal journey and plans to reconnect with her love for gardening. Overwhelmed with gratitude, LaDonna expressed, "Thank you for changing lives. You have no idea how much I've missed enjoying my home."

Throughout the day, the air buzzed with the sound of drills and lawnmowers, enhanced by laughter and the occasional burst of applause as coining ceremonies and projects were completed. But amidst the hustle and bustle, the quiet hum of gratitude lingered—a gentle reminder of the profound impact of kindness on the human heart.

We extend our deepest gratitude to our participating sponsors and company volunteer teams, including

JP Morgan Chase, Fishbeck, Union Bank, Comfort Research, BDO USA, Fifth Third Bank, Flexco, Steelcase, Meijer (MVets), Baker Holtz, Re/MAX, Shape Corporation, Consumers Energy, Mercantile Bank of Michigan, and Grand Valley State University.

As each project wrapped up, our volunteers gathered for group photos with their veterans, their faces beaming with pride and satisfaction. Operation United may only last for a day, but its effects ripple far beyond, leaving behind a legacy of compassion, unity, and hope.  

To learn more about this impactful program and how you can nominate a veteran or sponsor a home next year, visit hwmuw.org/operation-united. Together, let’s continue to make a difference in the lives of those who have sacrificed so much for our freedom.