Celebrating Milestones and Inspiring Momentum
250
Years of America
175
Years of Grand Rapids
Small City, Big Aspirations
We believe that the American Dream is for everyone, and it starts right here in Grand Rapids.
The story of our city is one of vision, perseverance and people who never give up. From our earliest days, we’ve been powered by bold ideas and hard work. GR A250 reflects the entrepreneurial, hands-on spirit that defines us — and it’s what will carry us forward.
The story of our city is one of vision, perseverance and people who never give up. From our earliest days, we’ve been powered by bold ideas and hard work. GR A250 reflects the entrepreneurial, hands-on spirit that defines us — and it’s what will carry us forward.
Our Guiding Principles
People
We recognize the inherent worth of every person. Our strength comes from finding common ground and lifting each other up.
Purpose
We are guided by the founding principles of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness — and the belief that together, we can make the American Dream real for every one of us.
Progress
We believe that no matter how much progress we've made, we can always do better, and that it can only happen when we work together.
The People Who Make It Happen
GR A250 is made possible by the people of Grand Rapids: a group of passionate leaders, volunteers, organizers and residents united in purpose and pride. Thank you to everyone who has dedicated their time and energy to propelling our mission forward.
A250 Steering Committee
Dale Robertson
Grand Rapids Public Musuem
Mayor David LaGrand
City of Grand Rapids
Doug DeVos
Continuum Ventures
Gleaves Whitney
Gerald R Ford Foundation
JD Loeks
Studio C Celebration Cinema
Joe Jones
Hekiman Group
John Tuttle
Acrisure
Juan Olivarez
Community Leader
LaSandra Gaddy
Grand Rapids Community Foundation
Mark Washington
City of Grand Rapids
Peter Meijer
Meijer
Philly Mantella
Grand Valley State University
Ron Gorman
Kent ISD
Tina Freese Decker
Corewell Health
Senator Winnie Brinks
Michigan 29th Senate District
Subcommittee Chairs
Cheryl Dorwin
Youth
Brittany Willcock
Youth
Katherine Baker
Sister Cities
Eddie Tadlock
Events
Al Vanderberg
City & County Government
Mark Washington
City & County Government
Lindsay Rodarmer
Resturant & Brewery Industry
Dilli Gautam
New Americans
Mike Irwin
Youth
Chris Andrus
Resturant & Brewery Industry
Adam Betz
Military
LaSandra Gaddy
Philanthropy
Brooke Clement
Museums & Arts
Tripp Frey
Philanthropy
Katy Golden
Military
Hollin Dela Cruz
New Americans
Nelson Sanchez
Manufacturing
John Kennedy
Manufacturing
Jenny Fee
K-12 Education
Eric Vanderleest
K-12 Education
Neil Carlson
Impact Measurement
Sarah Banks
Health Care
Dr. Candace Smith-King
Health Care
Nathaniel Moody
Faith-Based Community
Willie Gholston
Faith-Based Community
Eunice Lopez-Martin
Community Groups
Shelley Irwin
Community Groups
Jim Liske
Communications
Joe Jones
Communications
Mike Guswiler
Athletics
Julie Tabberer
Archives & Records
Tony Wright
Archives & Records
Partnering for civic impact
GR A250 works with mission-driven organizations and local entities to strengthen communities, amplify voices, and inspire civic participation at every level across our community.
Meet Our Partners
America250MI
Stand Together
City of Grand Rapids
Grand Rapids Chamber of Commerce
Gerald R Ford Presidential Foundation
Doug and Maria DeVos
Dan and Pamela DeVos
The Wege Foundation
The Jim and Kathy Hackett Foundation
The Jandernoa Foundation
The Frey Foundation
The Meijer Foundation
The Peter C & Emajean Cook Foundation
The CDV5 Foundation
Let’s make this milestone unforgettable.
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