Communities are most substantial when individuals come together to create a supportive, inclusive environment, and in Clinton County, St. John’s, Michigan, one organization embodies that spirit of unity. The SJ Call In Coalition, a small yet impactful nonprofit, has made a difference through volunteerism and community engagement. A significant marker of their efforts came from the prestigious Deucey Award, a recognition that highlights their contribution to building a healthier, safer, and more inclusive community. Let’s look deeper at the Coalition’s journey, mission, and recognition that has fueled their passion even further.

Origins and Mission

The SJ Call In Coalition was founded in 2020, during one of the most challenging periods in recent history—the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. At a time when communities were grappling with isolation and uncertainty, the Coalition rose to the occasion with a mission to bring people together and provide crucial support.

“We provide new opportunities for different groups of folks in our community. Free programming, isbasically a way to create a healthier, safer, more inclusive community,” they explain.

Initially fueled by the dedication of passionate volunteers, the organization’s commitment to inclusivity and safety soon gained momentum. Two years ago, it transitioned into an official nonprofit organization, a milestone that solidified its role in Clinton County. This recognition also positioned it to extend its reach and deepen its impact on the lives of local residents.

The Power of Storytelling and Connection

The SJ Call In Coalition’s ability to forge genuine connections within the community sets it apart. They understand that real stories create real impact and that building relationships requires authenticity. Through partnerships and collaborations, they’ve expanded their influence, ensuring more community members know their mission.

“First of all, y’all were great to work with. And just hearing those real stories from people, I think, was a great way to connect to the community,” they reflect.

By amplifying the voices of those they serve, the Coalition has been able to engage individuals who might not have previously known about their work. This emphasis on storytelling has helped them form deep, meaningful relationships throughout Clinton County.

Amplifying Their Reach Through Technology

In the digital age, the SJ Call In Coalition has fully embraced modern technology to spread its message. Its website and email campaigns serve as key tools for raising awareness and connecting with the broader public.

“We were able to use it on our website. We use it on the link of my email,” they note.

This digital outreach functions as an “elevator pitch,” offering a brief yet powerful introduction to the organization and programs. By leveraging online platforms, the Coalition has opened the door to new partnerships and increased vlocal and nationally visibility.

The Deucey Award: Recognition and Impact

In social work, recognition often comes as a surprise, and for the SJ Call In Coalition, receiving the Deucey Award was no exception. Named after an influential community leader known for their commitment to inclusivity, the Deucey Award is presented to organizations that demonstrate outstanding service and dedication to uplifting their community.

The award came as a shock to the Coalition’s spokesperson. “I was like, huh? Okay, when did this happen? So, yeah, it was really cool and inspirational to me as well that people found that there was something about that video that people felt connected to and awe-inspired, maybe.”

The recognition highlighted the relatability and inspirational quality of the Coalition’s work, validating their storytelling approach to connect with the community. But beyond the surprise, the award was a powerful motivator for the Coalition. It was a reminder that their efforts, often selfless and behind the scenes, had a profound impact.

Fueling Their Mission Through Social Work

Social work has its challenges. It often involves long hours, selflessness, and emotional investment, with the results of one’s efforts not always immediately visible. But the Deucey Award provided a much-needed boost of encouragement for the Coalition.

“Sometimes social work is, you know, selfless work, and so it is great every once in a while to be like, hey, people like what you’re doing, and it keeps us going in the right direction,” they share.

For the Coalition, the Deucey Award acted as “gas in the tank”—a source of motivation to continue pushing forward. It reaffirmed their belief that their work was both necessary and appreciated by the community they serve.

A Call to Action: Building a Brighter Future

The Deucey Award validated the SJ Call In Coalition’s past efforts and energized its future mission. The Coalition remains steadfast in its commitment to supporting every mcommunity member, blieving that inclusivity is the foundation for creating a healthier, safer environment where everyone can thrive.

“It’s important to support each and every one of our community members. And when we do that, we can create a healthier, safer, more inclusive community, one in which we can all thrive and be our best selves,” they emphasize.

The Coalition’s journey is a testament to the power of volunteerism, collaboration, and community engagement. With roots firmly planted in Clinton County, they inspire others to get involved and make a difference. Their story serves as a potent reminder that, through collective effort, we can build a more inclusive and supportive society.

Moving Forward with Inspiration

The recognition from the Deucey Award has only strengthened the SJ Call In Coalition’s resolve to continue making an impact. As they move forward, they invite others to join them on this journey of fostering inclusivity and well-being for all.

If you’re interested in learning more about the SJ Call In Coalition or getting involved, visit tits website or contact it through contact links. Together, we can build a future where every community member thrives.

Links:

SJ Call In Coalition Website
Contact

Stay connected, stay inspired, and continue supporting each other for a brighter, more inclusive future.