DETROIT, MI — January 30, 2026 — United Way for Southeastern Michigan proudly recognized three outstanding organizations as its 2025 Partners of the Year during its annual Campaign Kickoff, The Future Starts Here. The awards celebrate corporate, advocacy, and volunteer partners whose leadership and commitment have driven measurable impact for families across Macomb, Oakland, Washtenaw, and Wayne counties.
“When we talk about impact, we’re talking about partners who don’t just show up when it’s easy—but who lead with purpose when it matters most,” said Dr. Darienne Hudson, president and CEO of United Way for Southeastern Michigan. “These honorees represent the very best of what partnership looks like: commitment, courage, and a shared belief that every family deserves the opportunity to thrive.”
2025 Corporate Partner of the Year: Stellantis
United Way for Southeastern Michigan named Stellantis its 2025 Corporate Partner of the Year, recognizing more than six decades of partnership and an extraordinary resurgence in employee engagement and philanthropic leadership.
Stellantis rallied more than 18,000 donors during the 2024–25 campaign, raising more than $4 million through employee giving, internal campaign events and auctions. Their efforts were led by United Way Co-chair Tim Fallon, senior vice president and global head of Stellantis Production Way; United Way Ambassador’s Club Co-chair Ralph Gilles, chief design officer; alongside a steering committee of executive leaders.
Beyond workplace giving, Stellantis’ impact included major investments in community schools, STEAM education, basic needs, and large-scale fundraising collaborations—helping generate more than $5 million in total support for the region and thousands of volunteer hours.
“Our partnership with United Way for Southeastern Michigan reflects who we are and what we stand for at Stellantis,” said Fallon. “Our employees believe deeply in supporting the communities where they live and work, and this recognition belongs to every team member who chose to give, volunteer, and lead with heart during a time of real need.”
Gilles added: “It has been an honor to serve as the Stellantis Co-Chair in support of United Way for Southeastern Michigan. Their work to help strengthen and stabilize our neighbors, families, and community truly makes a meaningful difference for those who need it most.”
“Stellantis continues to ask how they can do more—and then they do it,” Hudson added. “Their leadership reminds us that corporate partnership can be both strategic and deeply human.”
2025 Advocacy Partner of the Year: Michigan League for Public Policy
The Michigan League for Public Policy (MLPP) was honored as 2025 Advocacy Partner of the Year for its long-standing leadership in data-driven policy advocacy that centers equity and economic security for Michigan families.
For nearly 20 years, United Way and MLPP have partnered on initiatives including the Kids Count in Michigan Data Book and major policy wins such as expansion of the Earned Income Tax Credit, protection of voting access, and efforts to protect Medicaid and secure Healthy School Meals for All.
Led by President and CEO Monique Stanton, the League’s work translates complex data into actionable insights, empowering nonprofits and policymakers alike to better serve ALICE households.
2025 Volunteer Partner of the Year: VITA Volunteers – Accounting Aid Society
United Way also recognized Accounting Aid Society’s VITA Volunteers as 2025 Volunteer Partner of the Year, celebrating decades of service helping families build financial stability through free, expert tax preparation.
As one of the nation’s largest IRS-certified VITA programs, Accounting Aid Society has already helped more than 20,000 households secure more than $27 million in refunds and tax credits this year. Supported by more than 450 volunteers contributing nearly 14,000 hours, the organization provides a critical financial lifeline for working families across Southeast Michigan.
Celebrating Partnership That Drives Impact
The Partner of the Year awards were presented as part of United Way’s 2025 Campaign Kickoff, which launched a bold year focused on Mobility, Stability, and Connectivity, and a regional goal of raising $35 million and 45,000 volunteer hours.
“The challenges facing families right now are urgent—but so is our collective response,” Hudson said. “When partners like these step forward, they help change not just the numbers, but the future for our entire region.”
About United Way for Southeastern Michigan
United Way for Southeastern Michigan, a member of the United Way Worldwide network and an independently governed 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, is dedicated to helping households achieve stability and ensuring that children have the resources they need to thrive. For over 100 years, United Way has been a leader in creating positive, measurable, and sustainable change in communities throughout Macomb, Oakland, Washtenaw, and Wayne counties The organization collaborates with donors, agencies, corporations, and municipal partners to support essential services such as housing, food security, healthcare, and education. To give, advocate, volunteer, or learn more, visit UnitedWaySEM.org.
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