WM Lead In Affinity Group

Friday November 15th, 9-11am, Metro Health Professional Building, 2122 Health Dr. SW Wyoming MI 49519

Find Your Fit

The “Season of Giving” has officially begun, a time when many of us donate to charity or look for opportunities to volunteer. But how do you incorporate service into your life year-round, in a way that truly fits your skills and passions? Ellen Carpenter leads a conversation about discovering your volunteer “personality” and how you can use your unique talents to make a difference in our community and fulfill your own desire to have a lasting impact.

Ellen Carpenter, Vice President, Donor Strategy and Engagement

Heart of West Michigan United Way

Ellen Carpenter began her work as VP, Donor Strategy and Engagement at Heart of West Michigan United Way in May, 2013. At United Way, she currently leads the fundraising, marketing, volunteer engagement and data management teams. She is passionate about developing relationships with companies and donors who align with the United Way mission of reducing poverty in our community. The work includes development and execution of marketing strategies covering all aspects of marketing including branding, public relations, internal and external communications, advertising, social media, website, and events. She also oversees the Volunteer Center engaging more than 12,000 volunteers each year supporting hundreds of nonprofits in Kent County. Prior to United Way, her for-profit career ranged from direct sale and store brand marketing to banking, advertising, and sales all in the West Michigan area.

Born in Grand Rapids, Ellen is serving her community by being an active volunteer with the Ronald McDonald House of West Michigan (Board Chair), The Chamber Choir of Grand Rapids (Board member), West Michigan Spartans (volunteer), God’s Kitchen (volunteer), and Degage Ministries (volunteer). Previously, she participated as a member of the Quality of Life Committee for Holland Home, a scholarship committee member for the Grand Rapids Community Foundation and volunteer for the American Cancer Society.

Ellen earned her Marketing degree from Michigan State University.  She is a Grand Rapids native with all six of her siblings staying in the Grand Rapids area. She has two children Alex (Elizabeth), an attorney in Grand Rapids and Peter, a Music Therapist at University of Michigan Health System in Ann Arbor, Michigan.   

OPPORTUNITY to give back! We will be collecting coats, hats, mittens and socks at the event that will be donated to area agencies in need for the winter!

View Attendee List

Lead In Affinity Group
Participate with other professionals in philanthropic activities, engage in leadership and professional development, and build a professional network through social activities. Whether you are just starting your career, blazing a new path, or an established mentor - this group is designed to bridge generational gaps allowing everyone to emerge as stronger leaders.

Chairs
Amy Gerard, AmyGerard@challengergray.com
Amy Ritsema, amy@onsitewellnessllc.com