Nonprofits Are the Glue That Holds Our Community Together

In a recent interview, Gov. Rick Snyder suggested the nonprofit community could — and should — play a key role in providing some of the support services the state of Michigan can no longer afford to fund. I found his comments interesting not because I disagreed with him, but rather it’s been my experience that local nonprofits, charitable organizations and their financial supporters have been doing exactly that in southeast Michigan for as long as I can remember.

Oftentimes, the only thing preventing more from joining this army of volunteers and benefactors is either a lack of understanding of how to get involved, or an incorrect assumption that they have nothing to offer these groups. We all have varying amounts of time, talent and treasure to offer, and the many groups serving our communities are more than happy to accept any amount of any of the three.

To help get the word out about the many nonprofits and charitable organizations working tirelessly to improve our society, the is hosting our Community Leadership Luncheon on Wednesday, June 22. The event includes a mini nonprofit expo, testimonials on the importance of the area business community tapping into these organizations, and a luncheon keynote speech by Huntington Bank’s Mike Fezzey, who has built a career around philanthropy and community involvement.

The luncheon, scheduled for 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. at , at 325 S. Eton St. in Birmingham, should be a must attend for any person interested in connecting with an area nonprofit either as a volunteer or wanting to learn more about their services, as well as a company owner or manager looking for an opportunity to connect their employees to a charity or looking for volunteer opportunities.

For more details, visit the Chamber Web site at www.bbcc.com