Community Leadership Academy: Empowering Our Communities
Be Healthy Berrien, a collective impact initiative anchored by United Way of Southwest Michigan, has received a $150,000 grant from the Michigan Health Endowment Fund to launch the Community Leadership Academy, a project aimed at uplifting health and wellness in Berrien County through local leadership.
Driven by Partnership, Rooted in Community In partnership with Corewell Health, this initiative empowers residents to become catalysts for change, fostering healthier, safer, and more equitable neighborhoods. Together, the organizations will create a robust curriculum, manage program operations and evaluation, and plan for long-term sustainability. After the two-year grant period, the Academy will transition to Corewell Health's Center for Wellness in Benton Harbor for ongoing implementation and growth.
Fueling Grassroots Leadership The Academy offers a 10-week training series for residents seeking to strengthen their neighborhoods. Sessions explore community leadership, crime prevention and safety, land use and active transportation, and healthy food systems. More than education, the Academy sparks collaboration and helps build a shared vision for lasting change.
Mobilizing Collective Action Through outreach, civic engagement, and partnerships, the Academy lays the foundation for strong, interconnected community networks. These efforts continue to mobilize residents in solving problems and building a healthier, safer, and more vibrant Berrien County.
Ready to Lead Change The Academy seeks passionate, committed residents from the 49022 zip code to join us for the first cohort which begins in September. Behealthyberrien.org/CLA
About Be Healthy Berrien
Be Healthy Berrien, launched in 2010, is dedicated to reducing and preventing obesity county-wide. The program is guided by a steering committee that includes the Berrien County Health Department, Corewell Health South, Equilibrium Fitness, the Southwest Michigan Planning Commission and the YMCA of Greater Michiana. United Way of Southwest Michigan serves as the anchor support agency and fiduciary. The initiative strives to make an equitable and lasting impact on our community's health by leveraging resources to advocate for policy, system, and environmental changes that improve food access and active living opportunities. Visit BeHealthyBerrien.org
About United Way of Southwest Michigan
United Way of Southwest Michigan works to create & sustain a united community where everyone contributes, belongs and thrives. We harness resources from corporate, nonprofit, and public partners to address our community's most pressing challenges and make lasting change. Join us in giving, advocating, and volunteering by visiting uwsm.org.
