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In this episode of Known Profits, we sit down with Dee Dee Taylor, Founder of Taylor Made Re-Entry, to talk about second chances, dignity, and the work of supporting individuals returning to the community after incarceration.

Dee Dee shares the story behind Taylor Made Re-Entry and the personal experiences that inspired her to create a nonprofit focused on helping people rebuild their lives. The organization provides guidance, resources, and support as individuals navigate the challenges of re-entering society and building a more stable future.

Through mentorship, practical assistance, and a deep commitment to community, Taylor Made Re-Entry is helping people find hope, opportunity, and a path forward.

Want to learn more about Taylor Made Re-Entry? Visit www.taylormadereentry.org.

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In this episode, we sit down with Meg Derrer, Executive Director of the Refugee Education Center, to explore how education, belonging, and community support can transform the resettlement journey for refugee families in West Michigan.

Meg shares how the Refugee Education Center walks alongside children and families as they adjust to life in a new country by providing academic support, youth programming, and family services that help remove barriers and build confidence. At the heart of the work is a deep commitment to honoring culture, fostering connection, and ensuring every child has the opportunity to thrive.

Through strong partnerships and a community-centered approach, the Refugee Education Center has become a vital bridge for families navigating new systems, new schools, and new beginnings. Meg’s leadership reflects the power of compassion and collaboration in creating lasting impact.

Want to learn more about the Refugee Education Center and how you can get involved? Visit www.refugeeeducationcenter.org.

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In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Carla Ludwig, Founding Director of Hope for Single Moms, to talk about building pathways of support, stability, and possibility for single mothers in the community.

Dr. Ludwig shares the story behind founding Hope for Single Moms and how the nonprofit is rooted in dignity, encouragement, and practical support. The organization walks alongside single moms as they pursue education, career goals, and personal growth.

Through mentoring, resources, and a strong community of support, Hope for Single Moms is helping women rewrite their stories and create brighter futures for themselves and their families.

Want to learn more about Hope for Single Moms? Visit www.hsmgr.org.

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In this episode, we sit down with Bob Von Kaenel, President and CEO of Hope Network, to explore how mission-driven leadership can transform lives and communities across West Michigan and beyond.

Bob shares his journey into nonprofit leadership and how Hope Network has grown into a comprehensive organization serving people with mental health needs, developmental disabilities, brain and spinal cord injuries, and workforce barriers.

Through innovative programs, strong partnerships, and a people-first approach, Hope Network is meeting individuals where they are and walking alongside them toward independence and wholeness.

Want to learn more about Hope Network and their impact? Visit hopenetwork.org

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In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Keli Christopher, Founder and Executive Director of STEM Greenhouse, to explore how innovative STEM education can transform communities and create pathways to opportunity.

Dr. Christopher shares the story behind STEM Greenhouse and how her background in education and leadership inspired her to reimagine how young people—especially those historically underrepresented in STEM—engage with science, technology, engineering, and math. Through hands-on learning, community partnerships, and a strong emphasis on equity and access, STEM Greenhouse is cultivating curiosity, confidence, and future-ready skills in the next generation. By blending educational expertise with a deep commitment to community impact, Dr. Christopher is helping students and educators alike see what’s possible when learning is rooted in relevance and support.

Want to learn more about STEM Greenhouse? Visit stemgreenhouse.org

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In this episode, we sit down with Brian Elve, Executive Director, and David Madiol, Director of Development and Communications at Guiding Light—a Grand Rapids nonprofit dedicated to helping men and women break free from addiction and rebuild their lives.

Brian and David share how Guiding Light’s long-term, residential recovery programs walk alongside men and women with dignity, accountability, and community, offering not just sobriety, but stability, purpose, and lasting transformation. Through housing, counseling, work therapy, and holistic support, Guiding Light creates a pathway toward independence and hope for individuals navigating recovery.

Want to learn more about Guiding Light and their impact in West Michigan? Visit guidinglightworks.org.

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In this episode, we sit down with Mikisha Plesco, Founder and CEO of Cultivating Futures and a passionate advocate for the young people and families of West Michigan. Mikisha shares how her own journey led her to create Cultivating Futures, an organization dedicated to helping youth build confidence, develop meaningful life skills, and access the support systems they need to thrive.

She talks about how mentorship, stability, and community-centered programming can change the trajectory of a young person’s life — and why investing in families today strengthens the entire community tomorrow. Through innovative partnerships, hands-on coaching, and a deep belief in the potential of every child, Mikisha and her team are creating pathways to hope, opportunity, and long-term success.

By blending her lived experience with a heart for service, Mikisha is transforming what support looks like for youth in West Michigan and inspiring others to step in, show up, and help cultivate brighter futures.

Want to learn more about Mikisha’s work? Visit www.c1futures.org.

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In this episode, we sit down with Stacy Bare, Executive Director of Friends of Grand Rapids Parks, a nonprofit working to ensure every neighbor has access to vibrant, welcoming, and well-cared-for public green spaces across the city.

Stacy shares how Friends’ work — from community-led, urban tree plantings and park revitalization projects to youth programs and neighborhood partnerships — is strengthening local ecosystems and deepening residents’ connection to the outdoors.

The organization also plays a vital role in park stewardship by equipping volunteers, supporting grassroots initiatives, and creating opportunities for all Grand Rapid's residents to shape the future of the parks they love.

Want to learn more about Friends of Grand Rapids Parks? Visit friendsofgrparks.org.