United Way Hosts Community Conversation in Pontiac

The recreational room inside Woodside Bible Church in Pontiac was filled with community members of varying ages and walks of life for United Way for Southeastern Michigan's first community conversation. The organization hosted the event to hear directly from residents about their city including strengths, challenges and opportunities. Mayor Deirdre Waterman gave the welcome, followed by remarks from Pontiac School Superintendent Kelley Williams, Kaino Phillips, Clarence E. Phillips Ascend Foundation, and Pastor Ryan Russel, Woodside Bible Church.

United Way staff hosted tableside chats with guests who were asked a series of questions to encourage open dialogue around the community's strengths; needs; momentum; and service delivery. Tonya Adair, chief impact officer, United Way for Southeastern Michigan told the crowd of nearly 50, "We're not here to force any programs or initiatives but seeking to hear firsthand your wants and needs for your community.

According to Adair, "United Way is vested in Oakland County and the city of Pontiac and we want to be a conduit toward helping create the type of community residents would like to see in partnership with others who care."

For more information about United Way for Southeastern Michigan, visit LiveUnitedSEM.org.