The 2nd Annual Champions of the Heart Fundraising Gala brought together a powerful community of leaders, supporters, and changemakers for an unforgettable evening of inspiration, impact, and heart at the Breslin Center. The event, benefiting the Champions of the Heart mission, supports the organization’s life-saving work—providing hands-only CPR training, CPR manikins, and Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) to communities in need. The gala drew over [insert estimated attendance if known] attendees who gathered in support of increasing survival rates for those experiencing unexpected cardiac events. Evening Highlights Included: A lively cocktail reception and gourmet dinner A silent auction hosted by none other than MSU Hall of Fame Coach Tom Izzo, returning for his second year in support of the mission Remarks and stories shared by MSU & NBA legend Mateen Cleaves, whose energy and passion lit up the evening An emotional and powerful retelling of the life-saving events that inspired the creation of Champions of the Heart, founded by former MSU Assistant Basketball Coach Mike Garland, whose life was saved by the courageous actions of two Good Samaritans in 2022 Throughout the evening, attendees were reminded of the critical importance of CPR awareness and accessibility. The funds raised will go directly toward expanding CPR education and increasing the number of AEDs placed in public spaces, giving more people the tools they need to save lives. Champions of the Heart is deeply grateful to all attendees, sponsors, volunteers, and community partners who made the evening a success. Your support helps us continue our mission of turning everyday citizens into everyday heroes. Together, we are saving lives—one heartbeat at a time.

The Melanated Business Alliance hosted a Youth Business Expo at the University Club of Michigan State University. This impactful event focused on empowering young entrepreneurs and was attended by 75-100 students in grades 9-12. The Expo provided attendees with the knowledge, skills, and tools necessary to start and grow their own businesses, fostering economic empowerment within the community. The day featured: Workshops and Training: In-depth sessions on business planning, financial literacy, marketing strategies, and digital tools. Mentorship: Valuable opportunities for students to connect with experienced business owners and professionals for personalized guidance and support. Networking: Platforms designed to help attendees meet and collaborate with their peers and potential partners. Guest Speakers: Inspiring talks by successful entrepreneurs and thought leaders who shared their journeys, challenges, and insights. Resources: Access to essential business development tools, including grants, scholarships, and educational materials. Interactive Activities: Engaging, hands-on projects and group activities designed to help participants apply their newfound skills in real-world scenarios. This event was a major step toward equipping the next generation of entrepreneurs with the resources and confidence to make a lasting impact on their communities.

The Melanated Business Alliance hosted a Youth Business Expo at the University Club of Michigan State University. This impactful event focused on empowering young entrepreneurs and was attended by 75-100 students in grades 9-12. The Expo provided attendees with the knowledge, skills, and tools necessary to start and grow their own businesses, fostering economic empowerment within the community. The day featured: Workshops and Training: In-depth sessions on business planning, financial literacy, marketing strategies, and digital tools. Mentorship: Valuable opportunities for students to connect with experienced business owners and professionals for personalized guidance and support. Networking: Platforms designed to help attendees meet and collaborate with their peers and potential partners. Guest Speakers: Inspiring talks by successful entrepreneurs and thought leaders who shared their journeys, challenges, and insights. Resources: Access to essential business development tools, including grants, scholarships, and educational materials. Interactive Activities: Engaging, hands-on projects and group activities designed to help participants apply their newfound skills in real-world scenarios. This event was a major step toward equipping the next generation of entrepreneurs with the resources and confidence to make a lasting impact on their communities.

Children Trust Michigan 22nd Annual Posthumus Signature Auction gathers sponsors, donors, and partners helping raise critical funding to provide support and services to child abuse prevention programming in every Michigan county.

ATHENA WIN Evening of Empowerment is a night of comradery and collaboration that celebrated the 2023 ATHENA Leadership Award recipient, Julie Pingston (President & CEO Choose Lansing) and featured special keynote speaker, Tamira Chapman (Founder & CEO Storehouse) who enlightened and entertained men and women of all ages. Attendees enjoyed cocktail hour for mingling; dinner with friends; and speakers who will inspire and motivate.