what participants say about download gr:

 

"I felt the Download GR session opened my eyes to the role that I play in the community. At the end of the day I felt privileged to have attended such a program."

 

"I could not have asked for a better experience. I am thankful that my employer asked me to attend this event. I am glad that I am working in Grand Rapids and look forward to the many opportunities that I am yet to stumble upon in this community."

 

"The program presented a good balance of speakers and external activities. The format and content were well-suited and thoughtful. My "take home pay" was a reminder that I need to get involved, that there is a wealth of options available in which I can invest my time."

 

"This session really brought out how great our city really is. I feel that this class encourages members to be more engaged and invested in the community."

Download GR Spring 2008

 

May 22, 2008 marked the second session of our Download GR program.  A group of young professionals representing for-profit and non-profit industries spent the day connecting to the Grand Rapids community.

The day began at the JW Marriott Hotel where the group was welcomed by Kevin Stotts, and given the opportunity to network. 

The program continued with a presentation by John Wheeler, President and CEO of Rockford Companies, on how to make a mark in the community.  The group was then joined by George Bosjnak, Business Development Manager at The Right Place, who offered an economic overview of Grand Rapids. The group was then taken on a bus tour displaying our unique neighborhoods, lead by City of Grand Rapids Planning Director Suzanne

Schulz. The tour concluded at the West Michigan Environmental Action Committee's facility,where Jessica Onan (LGR '08), Program Director for Aquinas College's Center for Sustainability, discussed current sustainability initiatives taking place in Grand Rapids. Following lunch, Andy Guy of Rapid Growth Media presented on the many positive changes and growth happening in our community.

A second bus tour highlighting our downtown and new developments concluded at the Heart of West Michigan United Way, where the group was able to meet representatives from the Grand Rapids Young Professionals, the Grand Rapids Jaycees, Schools of Hope, Junior Achievement and the Kids Food Basket.

Misty Hendricks, Marketing and Box Office Manager of the Grand Rapids Ballet Company, rounded out the day with a presentation and game focused on the variety of arts and cultural institutions in Grand Rapids.