More than 130 guests gathered on Wednesday, June 11, for Advancing Macomb’s 9th Annual Summer Soirée, presented by DTE. Held at the picturesque Youngblood Vineyard in northern Macomb County, the evening brought together civic leaders, nonprofit professionals, business partners and community supporters to celebrate the organization’s recent accomplishments and look ahead to what’s next.

Macomb County Executive Mark Hackel addressed attendees and recognized the impact of Advancing Macomb’s partnership with the County. Macomb County and Advancing Macomb are working together to expand access to nonprofit resources, offer technical assistance and launch initiatives like the Community Impact Fund to attract greater philanthropic investment into the region.

Advancing Macomb Program Manager Meghan Rutigliano highlighted the successful completion of the organization’s new Nonprofit Accelerator Program, which is designed to help small nonprofits strengthen their internal capacity and leadership. Nine organizations recently completed the pilot round, including Kimberly Elms, founder of Elms Family & Community Services, who spoke briefly about the value she found in the program.

Advancing Macomb Executive Director Phil Gilchrist announced the launch of Advancing Macomb’s Capacity Building Grant Program, made possible by Huntington. Advancing Macomb recently awarded $45,000 in grants to 13 nonprofit organizations to help build internal capacity and foster long-term sustainability. The program was designed to help strengthen small and growing nonprofits serving low- to moderate-income communities in Macomb County.

Evette Szajna and Mark Carr, the founders of Szajna-Carr For The Paws, a nonprofit organization based in Macomb County that provides resources and support to K-9 units, also spoke during the event. They described how assistance from Advancing Macomb has allowed their organization to expand its services and increase its impact.

The Summer Soirée was made possible with the support of the following sponsors:

• Presenting Sponsor: DTE
• Entertainment Sponsor: CollabPEO
• Summer Soirée Partner: First State Bank
• Emerald Sponsors: Consumers Energy and Freestar Financial Credit Union
• Ruby Sponsor: CNS Healthcare

Advancing Macomb extends its gratitude to everyone who contributed to the success of the 9th Annual Summer Soirée—from sponsors to speakers, board members and guests. To get involved and help maintain the momentum, visit AdvancingMacomb.com.