Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Known Profits, we sit down with Curt Gritters, Director of The Dementia Institute, to talk about supporting individuals and families navigating the challenges of dementia. Curt shares how The Dementia Institute works to provide education, resources, and compassionate support for caregivers, healthcare professionals, and those living with dementia. Through training programs, community partnerships, and practical tools, the organization is helping people bett...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Known Profits, we sit down with Brooke Kenyon, Director of Development at Alpha Grand Rapids, to talk about creating support, stability, and hope for individuals and families navigating unexpected pregnancies and early parenthood. Brooke shares how Alpha Grand Rapids provides free services and resources for both women and men, including pregnancy support, parenting education, material assistance, mentoring, and emotional encouragement. The organization is f...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Known Profits, we sit down with Michele Suchovsky, CEO of Paws With A Cause, to talk about the life-changing impact of assistance dogs. Michele shares how Paws With A Cause trains and places custom assistance dogs to support individuals with disabilities, helping them gain greater independence, confidence, and quality of life. From mobility support to hearing and service needs, each placement is thoughtfully matched to meet the unique goals of the individua...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Known Profits, we sit down with Mike Guswiler, President of the West Michigan Sports Commission, to talk about the impact sports tourism has on communities across West Michigan. Mike shares how the organization attracts major sporting events to the region, supports local businesses, and creates economic opportunities through youth, amateur, and professional sports. Through strategic partnerships and a focus on community engagement, the West Michigan Sports ...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Known Profits, we sit down with Christine O’Driscoll, Co-Founder of New Growth Project, to talk about creating inclusive opportunities for individuals with disabilities. Christine shares how New Growth Project provides hands-on experiences—often through urban agriculture and food-based programs—that help participants build life and job skills, gain confidence, and find meaningful community. Through a focus on ability, belonging, and real-world engagement, N...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Known Profits, we sit down with Dee Dee Taylor, Founder of Taylor Made Re-Entry, to talk about second chances, dignity, and the work of supporting individuals returning to the community after incarceration. Dee Dee shares the story behind Taylor Made Re-Entry and the personal experiences that inspired her to create a nonprofit focused on helping people rebuild their lives. The organization provides guidance, resources, and support as individuals navigate th...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, we sit down with Meg Derrer, Executive Director of the Refugee Education Center, to explore how education, belonging, and community support can transform the resettlement journey for refugee families in West Michigan. Meg shares how the Refugee Education Center walks alongside children and families as they adjust to life in a new country by providing academic support, youth programming, and family services that help remove barriers and build confidence. At th...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Carla Ludwig, Founding Director of Hope for Single Moms, to talk about building pathways of support, stability, and possibility for single mothers in the community. Dr. Ludwig shares the story behind founding Hope for Single Moms and how the nonprofit is rooted in dignity, encouragement, and practical support. The organization walks alongside single moms as they pursue education, career goals, and personal growth. Through mentoring, resou...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, we sit down with Bob Von Kaenel, President and CEO of Hope Network, to explore how mission-driven leadership can transform lives and communities across West Michigan and beyond. Bob shares his journey into nonprofit leadership and how Hope Network has grown into a comprehensive organization serving people with mental health needs, developmental disabilities, brain and spinal cord injuries, and workforce barriers. Through innovative programs, strong partnershi...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Keli Christopher, Founder and Executive Director of STEM Greenhouse, to explore how innovative STEM education can transform communities and create pathways to opportunity. Dr. Christopher shares the story behind STEM Greenhouse and how her background in education and leadership inspired her to reimagine how young people—especially those historically underrepresented in STEM—engage with science, technology, engineering, and math. Thr...