Great Hearts Award

The Great Hearts Award is an annual recognition of an individual and/or organization that is making a profound difference in the lives of children, youth, and families in our region.

Great Hearts Award Recipient

At this year's Great Hearts Gala, we are proud to celebrate a partner whose unwavering dedication to education and community empowerment mirrors our own mission at Starfish Family Services. United Way for Southeastern Michigan plays a critical role in our community, mobilizing a network of partners and volunteers to help families in Macomb, Oakland, Washtenaw, and Wayne counties move from crisis to stability and from stability to prosperity. Starfish Family Services is grateful to be among their partners in this region.

Through their 2-1-1 helpline, investments in human service providers and strategic impact initiatives, United Way is a lifeline for countless families, providing essential resources that help meet their most basic needs. Their commitment to ensuring all households have a pathway to success by deconstructing systemic racism and promoting equity, has empowered marginalized communities and fostered authentic inclusion.

United Way's focus on education and literacy fills gaps that traditional systems may not always reach - preparing children to learn, grow and succeed in a rapidly changing world. And by successfully advocating for public policies that foster meaningful systemic change, United Way has made a lasting, positive impact in countless lives across Southeastern Michigan.

Together, we are not just building a stronger community but nurturing an environment where every individual has the opportunity to reach their fullest potential. It is our honor to present United Way for Southeastern Michigan with the 2025 Great Hearts Award.

Accepting the award of behalf of United Way for Southeastern Michigan is Dr. Darienne Hudson, President & CEO.