West Michigan took a huge step toward inclusion with the welcoming of the largest Special Olympics facility in the world. Bekins, in cooperation with Whirlpool, Perlick and Fisher & Paykel, joined many regional donors in supporting the Special Olympics of Michigan (SOMI).
“We have always dreamed of building a place, a community, that shines a light on the incredible ability and contributions made by our athletes, which for far too long has gone unseen,” said Tim Hileman, President & CEO, Special Olympics of Michigan. “Our goal is to ensure that every person who steps into the Unified Sports & Inclusion Center will feel the power of it when they see the quality of workmanship, thoughtful design and beautiful products serving and designed to spur collaboration.”
Hileman continued, “Bekins was among the first to join our movement. They understood the importance of this project needing to not only to be functional but also beautiful, inspirational – first class all the way! Our partners and constituents deserve nothing less. We are extremely thankful to Bekins for helping us lead the way toward a more inclusive community.”
The patronage of our customers enables Bekins to invest in our local community, including SOMI. Bekins and partners funded 90% of the cost to provide ADA appliances to the new SOMI facility, located at the former South Christian High School on 68th Street in Grand Rapids. Most of the appliances that were donated went to the “Collaboration Café.” This space will be used as a break room and gathering space for all the building’s tenants. We also supplied an undercounter refrigerator to Thresholds, a tenant of the building who, according to their website, “serves those who need assistance in living as productively and independently as possible.”
Bekins’ BeKind initiative has been a powerful positive force in our communities. Thank you to our customers for supporting businesses such as Bekins. Your support helps us continue to value the lives of our employees, their families, our customers and the community.
Visit the BeKind Page on our website to learn more about our history of giving back to the community. Keep scrolling to see pictures of our Appliance Installation Technicians in action at the Special Olympics of Michigan!