2023–24 Impact Report
This past year, we have witnessed remarkable stories of resilience and transformation in our community. At Heart of West Michigan United Way, we believe that when we come together, we can create solutions that not only address immediate needs but also pave the way for lasting change. Your generosity and partnership have made it possible for individuals and families to rebuild their lives, find hope, and ultimately thrive.
The incredible results that come from working together as a community.
43,616 YOUTH served through United Way programs.
85% of Grand Haven Area Public Schools students that participated in CHILL passed all classes with a C or better and/or improved their attendance rate at school and/or had reduced behavioral issues.
92% of Kent County middle school students improved in 7th grade Science and 8th grade Math.
91% of Mosaic Counseling clients surveyed, report that as a result of their therapy sessions, they feel more hopeful about their future.
97% of individuals in Kent County increased access to quality mental health services
Anthony, a middle school student participating in one of United Way’s funded programs, found themselves more excited about school than ever before. The hands-on projects and fi eld trips made science come alive, and soon they were asking and answering more questions in class. One day, Anthony told their teacher, “I wasn’t going to come to school today, but I remembered we had science.” For Anthony and many others, these STEM programs offer a reason to come to school, igniting a passion for learning that goes beyond the classroom.
Over 78% of food service participants in all 3 counties reported increased access to healthier food.
78% of Kent County individuals and families reported sufficient, equitable access to safe, affordable, and nutritiously diverse food.
80% of Community Action House guests believe they have greater access to healthier food such as fruits and vegetables.
577,546 meals served to seniors
Sandra, an 88-year-old living alone, struggled with loneliness and lacked air conditioning in her home. She found relief at a senior center funded by United Way, where she enjoyed daily activities and received practical help, including a new AC unit and nutritious meals. The center provided Sandra with companionship and improved her quality of life.
More than 95% of residents served obtained stable housing.
$6,931,261 returned to the community through United Way’s Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program.
80% of households seeking utility assistance were given information & resources on how to lower their utility bills and/or enrolled in Pathway of Hope for long term case management, to meet and address housing goals.
92% of people who accessed housing solutions maintained stable/permanent housing for 12+ months.
Eric, a father of two, struggled to manage his finances while also caring for his brother, who has cancer. Falling behind on rent, Eric sought help through United Way’s 2-1-1 and was connected to a financial counseling program. The program helped him gain budgeting skills, avoid eviction, and regain financial stability.
Acknowledging this is our first year of combined services across all three counties, our partner agencies were not reporting the same indicators for the 2023-24 fiscal year. For clarity, data in green is based on Kent County programs and data in blue is based on Ottawa/Allegan programs. Larger data points in black font are based on cumulative data.
$15,740,264 Total Dollars Raised
For every dollar raised $2.48 is invested back into the community
4,840 VOLUNTEERS
gave more than 20,500
hours of their time
78,373 calls to United Way’s
211 helpline
Nearly 12,000 donors supported
our mission this past year.
Together, we are not just meeting challenges—we are building pathways to opportunity, hope, and stability for all who call West Michigan home. Thank you for standing with us, for believing in the potential of our community, and for helping us turn that belief into action.