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Date: Thursday, May 1, 2025
Time: Social Hour at 5:00 PM | Program Begins at 6:00 PM
Location: Delta Hotels by Marriott, Muskegon
Join us for an evening of inspiration, recognition, and community connection as we shine a light on the Everyday Heroes among us — the volunteers, corporate partners, and changemakers who are driving impact through service, philanthropy, and heart.
Together, we’ll celebrate the individuals and companies who are building a better future for the Lakeshore — one act of kindness, one bold decision, and one generous contribution at a time.
We’ll also mark a special moment in our history as we honor and bid farewell to our President, Christine Robere, retiring after 22 years of transforming the human services landscape with vision, compassion, and dedication.
After 22 years leading United Way of the Lakeshore — and 32 years as a United Way professional — Christine Robere is retiring. As our first female President & CEO, Christine has been a tireless advocate for working families, a champion of community collaboration, and a driving force behind some of our region’s most impactful initiatives.
Help us honor her incredible legacy by sharing a message, memory, or photo to be included in her retirement keepsake.
The Legacy of Caring Award is United Way of the Lakeshore’s highest distinction, honoring an individual whose unwavering dedication to giving, advocating, and volunteering exemplifies the very spirit of our mission. Through a lifetime of service, the recipient has built a legacy that strengthens our community, uplifts lives, and inspires others to follow in their footsteps. Their enduring impact serves as a beacon of hope and a testament to the power of caring to transform the future.
Steve & Deb Jackson and Gary & Wendy Merkey have been leaders in giving to support the community, especially United Way of the Lakeshore, giving at the highest levels of individual giving. They have consistently been engaged in supporting volunteer efforts at Day of Caring every time they are asked providing labor and heavy equipment to help us meet our objectives. Steve Jackson has served on the board and several committees providing his wisdom and expertise. Steve and Deb have a passion for helping their community thrive and it shows. Wendy Merkey has been a steadfast supporter of early childhood education including the Dolly Parton Imagination Library and other literacy programming. Gary is a former board member at Volunteer Muskegon and has a passion for supporting volunteerism and making a difference right here at home. Together they make a significant difference and help build a caring community where all of us can live, work and play
The Spirit of the Lakeshore Award is presented each year to one outstanding company and one extraordinary individual who embody the very heart of our mission. This honor recognizes those whose unwavering dedication to United Way and active leadership in building a stronger, more caring community inspire all of us. Through their consistent service, advocacy, and generosity over many years, they light the way toward a future where everyone can thrive.
The Volunteer of the Year Award celebrates an extraordinary individual whose selfless dedication, leadership, and passion for service have made a lasting impact on our community. Through countless hours of giving back, this volunteer embodies the spirit of what it means to Live United — lifting others, inspiring hope, and driving real change. Their commitment reminds us that one person’s actions can create a ripple effect of goodness, transforming lives and strengthening the fabric of our community.
Senior Volunteer of the Year - This award honors an outstanding individual over the age of 55 whose lifelong spirit of service continues to strengthen our community and inspire others long after retirement.
RSVP Member of the Year - This award honors an AmeriCorps Seniors volunteer whose extraordinary dedication to national service uplifts local nonprofits and strengthens our entire community. Through the Retired & Senior Volunteer Program, this individual has gone above and beyond — leading with heart, inspiring others, and demonstrating the power of lifelong service to make a lasting difference.
Volunteer of the Year - This award celebrates a remarkable volunteer over the age of 40 whose passion for service shines brightly in every season of life.
Emerging Leader Volunteer of the Year - This award celebrates an outstanding volunteer under the age of 40 who, early in their career, has already made a meaningful impact by stepping up to serve and lead within their community.
Student Volunteer of the Year - This award celebrates a student, from elementary through college, whose dedication to service is already making a powerful impact on the lives of others in our community.
Jim Baker - RSVP Member of the Year
Jason Finch - Volunteer of the Year
Baker College Rotaract Club - Student Volunteers of the Year
Doug & Kim Marie Wood - Senior Volunteers of the Year
Rachel Harden - Volunteer of the Year
The Mullen Family (Andrew, Maddox, & Ruby) - Student Volunteers of the Year
Trina Burmeister - Volunteer of the Year
Emily Morgenstern - Emerging Leader Volunteer of the Year
The Community Builder Award honors companies whose outstanding commitment to excellence has made a powerful impact on our annual campaign and beyond. These organizations exemplify best practices, achieving exceptional results through leadership, innovation, and a spirit of generosity. More than just supporters, they are true partners in building a stronger, more vibrant community — standing with United Way to create lasting change and opportunity for all.
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