LANSING, MI — Michigan Community Action (MCA) welcomed community action leaders, advocates, and supporters from across the state to the Michigan State Capitol today for its annual Legislative Day. The event united MCA’s member agencies to showcase the impact of community action and honor outstanding service to Michiganders.
Participants held meetings with dozens of Michigan legislators to discuss policy solutions that support economic opportunity and wraparound services for vulnerable populations – including a 50% state match to the federally funded Community Services Block Grant (CSBG), a critical component of Community Action Agency (CAA) operations.
The CSBG provides foundational funding that enables CAAs to respond flexibly and effectively to local needs – from emergency assistance to long-term programs that promote self-sufficiency. A state match would not only unlock additional federal resources but also demonstrate Michigan’s commitment to addressing poverty through locally driven, community-based solutions.
“In a time when the future of federal funding for critical community action programs is uncertain, our work on the ground is more important than ever,” said Brian McGrain, executive director of Michigan Community Action. “Today, we elevated the voices of those who are too often left out of national debates. Our agencies continue to deliver results, and our Legislative Day is a chance to ensure policymakers see both the needs and the solutions we have right here in Michigan.”
A pillar of MCA Legislative Day is the Community Action Awards, honoring agency clients and volunteers, as well as state lawmakers who have stepped up as advocates for MCA and CAAs. The 2025 awardees include:
Legislators of the Year
- State Representative John Roth (R-Interlochen)
- State Senator Joseph Bellino (R-Monroe)
- Daniel Remington, Gaylord – nominated by Northwest Michigan Community Action Agency
- Jack McGrath, Sault Ste. Marie – nominated by Chippewa-Luce-Mackinac Community Action Agency
- Mandi Schuch, Alpena – nominated by Northeast Michigan Community Service Agency
- Sarah Elizabeth, Alpena – nominated by Northeast Michigan Community Service Agency
- Hazel Sanders, Ypsilanti – nominated by Washtenaw County Office of Community and Economic Development
- Kathleen (Kat) Byers, Kalkaska – nominated by Northwest Michigan Community Action Agency
- Kathryn Nerychel, Lakeview – nominated by EightCAP
- Lorelei King, Crawford County – nominated by Northeast Michigan Community Service Agency
- Patty and Tony Soma, Walled Lake – nominated by Oakland Livingston Human Service Agency
“The Community Action Awards shine a light on the remarkable stories of resilience, service, and leadership happening every day in our communities,” said Lisa Evans, MCA board president. “From dedicated staff and volunteers to courageous clients, these individuals embody the mission of Community Action and remind us what’s possible when we invest in people and communities.”
For more information about Michigan Community Action and its member agencies, visit www.micommunityaction.org.
Learn more about each awardee here.
Download photos and videos from the event here.
