There’s something all of the most important community organizations in Michigan and around the country have in common: consistency.

Some programs are large and well-staffed, while others barely get by on the strength of their volunteers. But known or unknown, their determination to serve our children, families and residents on a continuous basis makes them valuable beyond words. Leaders like United Way for Southeastern Michigan’s President and CEO, Dr. Herman Gray deserve credit as role models for their organizations’ and team members’ commitment. Since 1917, United Way for Southeastern Michigan has served the region, collaborating with hundreds of other community programs, events and initiatives, annually to benefit residents in Wayne, Macomb, and Oakland Counties.

This week, Gray is the object of well-earned recognition by the Oakland County Commissioners, which has proclaimed United Way an impactful organization in Michigan for the past 100 years. Along with the organization’s ongoing Meet Up and Eat Up summer meal program for youth, the agency fielded 14,000 telephone calls that helped connect Michigan residents to social services through United Way’s 2-1-1 telephone service.

“We all share the values and support the mission of United Way. As a community, we succeed when we lift each other up and invest in our shared prosperity,” says Oakland County Commissioner and Minority Caucus Chair Dave Woodward. “I’m really impressed with this organization’s genuine passion and commitment to helping everyone in Oakland County – working families, children, and seniors – to live happy, healthy lives.”

Whether in Oakland County cities like Pontiac or in Detroit, the work of United Way for Southeastern Michigan deserves our collective gratitude. Gray and his devoted staff and unsung volunteers help define the meaning of consistent support in our community.

Lead photo: United Way for Southeastern Michigan President & CEO, Dr. Herman Gray (center) accepted the Oakland County Commissioners’ award with (from left) Michael J. Gingell, Marcia Gershenson, Janet Jackson, David E. S. Bowman and Helaine Zack. Photo courtesy United Way