FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Aug.

20, 2013

Media Contact: Chris Sargent Phone: (269) 962-9538

Hands On Battle Creek Merges With United Way

Combination of Nonprofits Strengthens Local Volunteer Coordination, 2-1-1 Service BATTLE CREEK, Mich. Hands On Battle Creek, which coordinates volunteer initiatives in Battle Creek and 2-1-1 service in Calhoun County, has become part of the United Way of the Battle Creek and Kalamazoo Region (UWBCKR), officials announced today. Merging Hands On Battle Creek with United Way strengthens both organizations ability to mobilize volunteers effectively and provide support systems for basic needs, said Michael Larson, president and CEO of UWBCKR. Given our long relationship, this is a perfect fit for both of us and, most importantly, for those we serve in the Battle Creek area. Larson said the mission of Hands On Battle Creek remains unchanged: coordinating support systems for basic needs, promoting volunteerism and engaging people in community service. The group, which has existed since 1949, will continue in its current location in downtown Battle Creek, and it will retain its Hands On identity as a function of United Way. Its activities will remain focused on the Battle Creek area, including continued operation of Calhoun Countys 2-1-1 service. No changes are planned for its four-person staff. The merger process began in 2009 as part of an analysis of Hands On Battle Creeks financial and operational model, according to Ron Slagle, chairman of the Hands On Battle Creek Board of Directors. That analysis prompted formation of a task force of local volunteers in 2010 to look at long-term options. The task force recommended a merger with United Way in 2011, and the merger process was completed in July 2013. This merger strengthens both organizations ability to leverage engagement and support in the community, which means we can serve more people more effectively, Slagle said. Larson said the integration will be swift because the two organizations have been working hand-in-glove for many years. United Ways mission has three pillars: give, advocate and volunteer. Hands On Battle Creek has been a terrific partner in helping us drive that third pillar, said Larson. By becoming part of our organization, Hands On Battle Creek gains expanded breadth and depth to drive greater volunteerism in the community, and United Way gains the means to become even more effective in that realm in the areas of education, income and health. The winner is the Battle Creek community. # # # On the Web UWBCKR: www.changethestory.org
1

Hands On Battle Creek: www.handsonbc.org