On a warm summer evening in northern Macomb County, nearly 150 business, civic and nonprofit leaders from throughout the county gathered to network and celebrate Advancing Macomb’s recent accomplishments and its renewed vision and commitment to the future. Attendees were also introduced to the new executive director, Phil Gilchrist.

The Summer Soirée, an annual tradition for Advancing Macomb, was held for the first time at Youngblood Vineyard in Ray, Mich.

Advancing Macomb’s Executive Director Phil Gilchrist and Program Manager Angela Lenda

Ian McCain, economic development manager for the City of Eastpointe, opened the event and noted the support Advancing Macomb provides to communities throughout Macomb County. Recently, Advancing Macomb partnered with the City of Eastpointe to host a Show Me the Money Day at the Eastpointe Library to promote financial education.

Phil Gilchrist made a significant announcement during his remarks: the Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Foundation has committed $600,000 over the next three years to Advancing Macomb to establish a nonprofit incubator to provide small, new and emerging Macomb County nonprofits with the practical skills and knowledge needed for effective operations. The grant will also allow Advancing Macomb to invest in its internal infrastructure to ensure long-term sustainability.

Kelsea Wulff of Live Rite Structured Recovery Corp. also spoke during the event and shared the invaluable support they receive from Advancing Macomb through the Nonprofit Roundtable. Live Rite helps individuals with substance abuse problems by providing them with the resources for long-term recovery. The organization offers resources such as food, clothing, housing and job assistance, as well as daily meetings and events.

Guests enjoyed entertainment provided by Dylan Sherman & The Low End, as well as conversation, wine, wood-fired pizza and expansive vineyard views.

The eighth annual Summer Soirée was presented by collabPEO. Additional event sponsors included partner First State Bank, Consumers Energy and GJC CPAs/Advisors. All sponsors played a crucial role in making the event a success. Their support, along with that of board members, community leaders and volunteers, is instrumental in helping Advancing Macomb transform its vision for Macomb County into a reality.

See more photos from the event on Advancing Macomb’s Facebook page HERE.