Colleen Reinert

Grants Management Specialist, MI Dept. of Health

Why did you choose to serve on the United Way of Southwest Michigan board? I was interested to serve on the United Way of Southwest Michigan Board because, as someone new to the area, I wanted to become more engaged in the local community. While my professional work is focused at the state level, this board position gives me a meaningful opportunity to connect locally—through volunteering, collaborating with other nonprofit and community leaders, and contributing my skills to support the impactful work of United Way in Southwest Michigan.

What does our mission mean to you? To me, the UWSWM mission means working together to create a stronger, healthier, and more equitable community. It’s about bringing the right partners to the table, listening to the voices of those most affected, and being flexible enough to meet people where they are. As someone working in public health, I see the mission as it aligns with the social determinants of health through the commitment to improving lives across education, health, and financial stability.

What is one local cause or community issue that you are especially passionate about, and why? I am passionate about the awareness and growth of Community Health Workers (CHWs). Their unique ability to implement community health programs by being trusted members of the community offers a non-traditional, but highly effective, approach to public health. Unlike conventional methods that can feel impersonal or disconnected, CHWs bridge cultural and systemic gaps, building trust and engagement in ways that create lasting impact—especially in underserved communities. 

When you're not working or volunteering, what’s a favorite hobby or activity you enjoy? Besides spending time with my family, you can find me hiking in the woods, listening to audiobooks on Libby, or working at a local winery.