Shared aspirations and partnering for community impact were the key takeaways at “Changing The Story With United Way,” a forum hosted by Stryker Corporation on Sept. 1. 

Ninety people from business, education, government, nonprofits and other organizations turned out for the gathering, which was held at Stryker’s corporate headquarters in Portage.

“The forum was a great opportunity for community and business leaders to connect, share successes and discuss how we can all work together to change the story in the region,” said Cathi Mohan, director of Investor Relations at UWBCKR.

Following social time—which included a demonstration of Stryker medical products and innovations—the forum kicked off with a panel discussion on personal and corporate aspirations for the community and how those dreams tie to the work and impact of United Way. The panel featured Kevin Lobo, President and CEO of Stryker; Kathy Young, President and CEO of Borgess Health; Tom Burt, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Duncan Aviation; Dave Campbell, Superintendent of KRESA; and Mike Larson, President and CEO of United Way of the Battle Creek and Kalamazoo Region.

Next up were representatives from Community Healing Centers’ STREET Program, which guides at-risk teens away from destructive lifestyles through positive role modeling and other supports. Kyle Graves, a young man whose life was touched by STREET, shared his stirring personal journey alongside mother Tiffany and youth coordinator Joe Morton. It was an excellent preview for attendees from Stryker and Pfizer who volunteered the next day at STREET. 

Mike Larson wrapped up the gathering with a call to action and affirmation of United Way’s continuing work to benefit people and the community. 

“Dialogue like this is valuable because it links community leaders and foster discussion on how we can do more collectively,” Mohan said.

 

For examples of United Way’s impact, go to www.changethestory.org and click on Resources.