Garrett Schwebel

When I first heard about Team Jeep, I was a contractor and didn’t think I could join. Six years ago, I thought, “I’m just going to do it anyway.” My biggest message today is that anyone can join Run United. It’s not just for people in corporate; it’s for anyone who wants to make a difference.

If you aren’t a runner, just go outside and walk or find other creative ways to earn your miles. You won’t just feel a physical difference, you’ll also become open to things you weren’t in the past.

Everything starts with a willingness to say yes. For people on the fence about joining, all I can say is it’s worth it.

Saying Yes to Student’s Dreams

One of the things I love about United Way is that every year they work to give kids an equal playing field with their peers, and that to me is everything. We can help students achieve their potential.

There are new things emerging, like 3D printers and so much more. Having access makes students feel like they’re in the know and that they have an equal chance at success.

I think of the obstacles that I walked through and all the people that said, “No, you’ll never do it.” Today, kids’ futures are riding on us giving them their “Yes.” It’s just about giving them a chance and clearing the way.

Every year I think, “Who is going to be taking my job?” It’s a prayer that somebody I help will one day achieve the dream job I have. When we join hands, we can bring forward the innovative city and tech hub that Detroit promises to be.

Big Sneakers to Fill

My mom was my role model. I grew up in a place in Louisiana that was crazy racist and when you grow up in an area like that, you don’t know the beauty of what everybody else can bring to your world.

There are so many beautiful things that you learn when you realize there’s a world outside of this town. My mom was always a champion for people.

She was a teacher, and it changed my life watching her care for her students throughout the years. My mom still lives this out, and now that I do give back in so many ways, it’s crazy to recognize God’s grace and my personal growth.

Later in life, I got to see my dad grow, too, and that is the ultimate gift. By the end of his life, he grew into the person that would give the shirt off his back. My very first run was dedicated to him on September 16, 2020, not even a month after he passed. It was a bittersweet reminder that I have big shoes to fill for both my parents.

United Way for Southeastern Michigan’s annual Run United Virtual Marathon will support students in STEAM learning opportunities. Participants are challenged to log 26.2 miles from August 11 to September 14. Through One Cause, friends, family and teammates can view their progress and virtually cheer them on.