Heroes Celebration: Making Waves
We’re Making Waves
From the lakeshore to the rivers and inland lakes that shape our region, water connects Muskegon, Newaygo, and Oceana Counties.
In the same way, acts of service create ripples that travel far beyond where they begin.
The Heroes Celebration is our opportunity to come together and recognize the volunteers, partners, and leaders whose dedication creates waves of impact across our community.
This is more than an awards event—it is a celebration of the people who show up, take action, and move our community forward.
Join United Way of the Lakeshore for an evening of celebration, connection, and community as we honor the people creating waves of impact across Muskegon, Newaygo, and Oceana Counties.
Wednesday, May 20, 2026
Trillium Events
17246 Van Wagoner Rd, Spring Lake, MI 49456
Cocktail Hour: 5:00 PM
Award Celebration: 6:00 PM
Tickets:
$30 General Seating
$300 Reserved Table of 8 (front of stage)
Making Waves
Event Details:
Date: Wednesday, May 20, 2026
Location: Trillium Events
17246 Van Wagoner Rd, Spring Lake, MI 49456
Evening Schedule
5:00 PM – Cocktail Hour
6:00 PM – Award Celebration Begins
Enjoy an inspiring evening filled with recognition, storytelling, and connection—all set within our Making Waves theme.
Reserve Your Seat
Be part of a night that celebrates the people strengthening our community every day.
General Admission
$30 per person
Reserved Table of 8
$300 (located near the front of the stage)
Whether you attend with colleagues, friends, or fellow community members, your presence helps honor the impact happening across the Lakeshore.
Honoring the People Behind the Impact
Every act of service creates a ripple.
At the Heroes Celebration, we recognize the individuals and organizations whose leadership, generosity, and commitment strengthen our community across Muskegon, Newaygo, and Oceana Counties.
Each award reflects a different way people contribute to lasting change—through service, partnership, and action.
Spirit of the Lakeshore Award
The highest honor for a company
Recognizes a business that leads with purpose—mobilizing its people, resources, and influence to strengthen our community.
These organizations don’t just support the work—they help lead it.
Legacy of Caring Award
The highest honor for an individual
Celebrates a lifetime of service that has helped shape our community.
This honor recognizes individuals whose commitment, leadership, and generosity have created lasting impact.
Community Builders Recognition
Honors organizations that demonstrate outstanding commitment to giving, volunteering, and community partnership.
Their support helps strengthen the foundation of our region.
Volunteer of the Year Awards
Recognizes individuals who make a meaningful difference through their time and service.
These volunteers demonstrate a deep commitment to helping others and strengthening the community.
Community Impact Leader Award
Honors an individual whose leadership and dedication have significantly improved life across our community.
Through their work, they help move our region forward in lasting ways.
Changemaker Award
Recognizes nonprofit professionals who are making a meaningful difference right now.
Through passion, leadership, and action, they are helping improve the lives of others every day.
Get Involved: Volunteer
It takes a team to bring this celebration to life. Volunteers help create a welcoming and meaningful experience for every guest while supporting the flow of the evening.
Opportunities may include:
Award selection & sponsorship connection
Event setup and décor
Guest check-in and registration
Activity or raffle support
Cleanup and wrap-up
Whether behind the scenes or front and center, your time helps make this event unforgettable.
Sponsorship Opportunities
Sponsoring the Heroes Celebration is a powerful way to demonstrate your commitment to the Lakeshore community. Sponsors help make this event possible while aligning with a night that celebrates leadership, service, and impact across our region. From visibility to meaningful engagement, sponsorship offers a unique opportunity to be part of something bigger.