BEGIN:VCALENDAR VERSION:2.0 PRODID:-//Grand Rapids Chamber - ECPv6.15.18//NONSGML v1.0//EN CALSCALE:GREGORIAN METHOD:PUBLISH X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://grandrapids.org X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Grand Rapids Chamber REFRESH-INTERVAL;VALUE=DURATION:PT1H X-Robots-Tag:noindex X-PUBLISHED-TTL:PT1H BEGIN:VTIMEZONE TZID:America/Detroit BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20240310T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20241103T060000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20250309T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20251102T060000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20260308T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20261101T060000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20270314T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20271107T060000 END:STANDARD END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20250311T073000 DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20250311T113000 DTSTAMP:20260410T114759 CREATED:20230523T141614Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260119T141628Z UID:10000113-1741678200-1741692600@grandrapids.org SUMMARY:Grand Rapids Policy Conference DESCRIPTION:Registration & Pricing\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Join housing leaders\, stakeholders\, and community members from across the region at the West Michigan Housing Summit for a dynamic\, solutions-focused conference centered on innovative strategies for addressing housing challenges. This summit brings together cross-sector voices committed to moving beyond conversation and toward coordinated action on the region’s most pressing housing challenges. \n \n \n \n WHAT TO EXPECT \n \n \n \n A dynamic opening session from Sam Cummings and Ryan Kilpatrick\, reflecting on where we’ve been\, where we are now\, and where we’re headed together as a region. Six targeted breakout sessions addressing critical housing issues\, including: A legislative panel featuring leaders in housing reforms.Strategies for effective public engagement around housing and growthCorridor development and place-based investment to drive vibrancyPathways and tools for emerging developersThe limitations of subsidy-only approaches to housing affordabilityEffective\, coordinated responses to homelessness \n \n \n \n Closing with Energy \n \n \n \n Coby Lefkowitz will tie together insights from the day and challenge attendees to think boldly optimistic about the future of housing through coordinated\, cross-sector solutions. Coby is the author of Building Optimism: What a World that Looks Better\, Works Better\, and Feels Better Could Look Like where he explores how we can create more beautiful and livable communities. \n \n \n \n \n \n Donor and sponsor support makes this convening possible and positions partners at the center of regional housing leadership. Sponsors gain visibility with key decision-makers\, align their brand with measurable community impact\, and help catalyze the ideas and collaborations that move housing solutions forward. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n WHO SHOULD ATTEND \n \n \n \n This summit is for leaders and changemakers committed to improving housing outcomes\, including: Housing practitioners and advocatesGovernment and public sector leadersDevelopers and real estate professionalsEmerging developers and entrepreneursNonprofit and community-based leadersPhilanthropic and funding partnersPolicy and civic engagement professionalsAnyone invested in housing affordability\, availability\, and stabilityIf you’re working to shape the future of housing in West Michigan\, this summit is for you. \n \n \n \n \n \n AGENDA12:30 p.m. Registration and Networking 1:00 p.m. Opening Remarks and IntroductionJennifer Radaz\, Housing NextRyan Kilpatrick\, Flywheel Community Development ServicesSam Cummings\, CWD Real Estate Investment 1:40 p.m. Transition + Networking Break 1:55 p.m. Breakout Sessions State Legislative PanelState Representatives Wooden\, Grant and AragonaModerated by Joshua Lunger\, Grand Rapids Chamber Public EngagementJason Wheeler\, Wheeler DevelopmentRyan Schmidt\, IndigoRowan Brady\, City of Grand RapidsModerated by Rebekah Kik\, City of Kalamazoo Corridor RedevelopmentCameron VanWyngarden\, Plainfield TownshipNicole Hofert\, City of WyomingModerated by Ryan Kilpatrick\, Flywheel Community Development Services 2:40 p.m. Transition + Networking Break 2:55 p.m. Breakout Sessions Affordability Won’t Be Solved by Subsidy AloneDave Levitt\, Third CoastBev Thiel\, Habitat for Humanity of Kent CountyModerated by Ryan Kilpatrick\, Flywheel Community Development Services Effective Response to HomelessnessThelma Ensink\, Degagé MinistriesAdrienne Goodstal\, North Kent ConnectTenisa Frye\, Family Promise of West Michigan 4:00 p.m. KeynoteCoby Lefkowitz\, author of “Building Optimism: What a World that Looks Better\, Works Better\, and Feels Better Could Look Like”  5:00 p.m. Happy Hour 6:00 p.m. Adjourn \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Meet our speakers \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Coby Lefkowitz \n \n \n \n Co-Founder & Principal \n \n \n \n Backyard \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Coby Lefkowitz\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ryan Kilpatrick \n \n \n \n Founder + CEO \n \n \n \n Flywheel Community Development Services \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Ryan Kilpatrick\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Sam Cummings \n \n \n \n Managing Partner \n \n \n \n CWD Real Estate Investment \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Sam Cummings\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Event Sponsors \n \n \n \n \n Premier Sponsor \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Housing Champions URL:https://grandrapids.org/event/grand-rapids-policy-conference/ LOCATION:Amway Grand Plaza Hotel\, 187 Monroe Ave NW\, Grand Rapids\, State\, 49503\, United States CATEGORIES:Advocacy & Government Affairs,Annual Events & Summits END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20250618T160000 DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20250618T180000 DTSTAMP:20260410T114759 CREATED:20250508T150121Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260119T141607Z UID:10000366-1750262400-1750269600@grandrapids.org SUMMARY:100 in 100 Celebration DESCRIPTION:Registration & Pricing\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Join housing leaders\, stakeholders\, and community members from across the region at the West Michigan Housing Summit for a dynamic\, solutions-focused conference centered on innovative strategies for addressing housing challenges. This summit brings together cross-sector voices committed to moving beyond conversation and toward coordinated action on the region’s most pressing housing challenges. \n \n \n \n WHAT TO EXPECT \n \n \n \n A dynamic opening session from Sam Cummings and Ryan Kilpatrick\, reflecting on where we’ve been\, where we are now\, and where we’re headed together as a region. Six targeted breakout sessions addressing critical housing issues\, including: A legislative panel featuring leaders in housing reforms.Strategies for effective public engagement around housing and growthCorridor development and place-based investment to drive vibrancyPathways and tools for emerging developersThe limitations of subsidy-only approaches to housing affordabilityEffective\, coordinated responses to homelessness \n \n \n \n Closing with Energy \n \n \n \n Coby Lefkowitz will tie together insights from the day and challenge attendees to think boldly optimistic about the future of housing through coordinated\, cross-sector solutions. Coby is the author of Building Optimism: What a World that Looks Better\, Works Better\, and Feels Better Could Look Like where he explores how we can create more beautiful and livable communities. \n \n \n \n \n \n Donor and sponsor support makes this convening possible and positions partners at the center of regional housing leadership. Sponsors gain visibility with key decision-makers\, align their brand with measurable community impact\, and help catalyze the ideas and collaborations that move housing solutions forward. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n WHO SHOULD ATTEND \n \n \n \n This summit is for leaders and changemakers committed to improving housing outcomes\, including: Housing practitioners and advocatesGovernment and public sector leadersDevelopers and real estate professionalsEmerging developers and entrepreneursNonprofit and community-based leadersPhilanthropic and funding partnersPolicy and civic engagement professionalsAnyone invested in housing affordability\, availability\, and stabilityIf you’re working to shape the future of housing in West Michigan\, this summit is for you. \n \n \n \n \n \n AGENDA12:30 p.m. Registration and Networking 1:00 p.m. Opening Remarks and IntroductionJennifer Radaz\, Housing NextRyan Kilpatrick\, Flywheel Community Development ServicesSam Cummings\, CWD Real Estate Investment 1:40 p.m. Transition + Networking Break 1:55 p.m. Breakout Sessions State Legislative PanelState Representatives Wooden\, Grant and AragonaModerated by Joshua Lunger\, Grand Rapids Chamber Public EngagementJason Wheeler\, Wheeler DevelopmentRyan Schmidt\, IndigoRowan Brady\, City of Grand RapidsModerated by Rebekah Kik\, City of Kalamazoo Corridor RedevelopmentCameron VanWyngarden\, Plainfield TownshipNicole Hofert\, City of WyomingModerated by Ryan Kilpatrick\, Flywheel Community Development Services 2:40 p.m. Transition + Networking Break 2:55 p.m. Breakout Sessions Affordability Won’t Be Solved by Subsidy AloneDave Levitt\, Third CoastBev Thiel\, Habitat for Humanity of Kent CountyModerated by Ryan Kilpatrick\, Flywheel Community Development Services Effective Response to HomelessnessThelma Ensink\, Degagé MinistriesAdrienne Goodstal\, North Kent ConnectTenisa Frye\, Family Promise of West Michigan 4:00 p.m. KeynoteCoby Lefkowitz\, author of “Building Optimism: What a World that Looks Better\, Works Better\, and Feels Better Could Look Like”  5:00 p.m. Happy Hour 6:00 p.m. Adjourn \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Meet our speakers \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Coby Lefkowitz \n \n \n \n Co-Founder & Principal \n \n \n \n Backyard \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Coby Lefkowitz\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ryan Kilpatrick \n \n \n \n Founder + CEO \n \n \n \n Flywheel Community Development Services \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Ryan Kilpatrick\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Sam Cummings \n \n \n \n Managing Partner \n \n \n \n CWD Real Estate Investment \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Sam Cummings\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Event Sponsors \n \n \n \n \n Premier Sponsor \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Housing Champions URL:https://grandrapids.org/event/100-in-100-celebration/ LOCATION:The ROC at Rockford Construction\, 601 First St NW\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, 49504\, United States CATEGORIES:Advocacy & Government Affairs ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://grandrapids.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/100-in-100-Celebration-e1746715515193.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20260415T110000 DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20260415T123000 DTSTAMP:20260410T114759 CREATED:20251203T194701Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260402T183503Z UID:10000375-1776250800-1776256200@grandrapids.org SUMMARY:National Civics Bee DESCRIPTION:Registration & Pricing\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Join housing leaders\, stakeholders\, and community members from across the region at the West Michigan Housing Summit for a dynamic\, solutions-focused conference centered on innovative strategies for addressing housing challenges. This summit brings together cross-sector voices committed to moving beyond conversation and toward coordinated action on the region’s most pressing housing challenges. \n \n \n \n WHAT TO EXPECT \n \n \n \n A dynamic opening session from Sam Cummings and Ryan Kilpatrick\, reflecting on where we’ve been\, where we are now\, and where we’re headed together as a region. Six targeted breakout sessions addressing critical housing issues\, including: A legislative panel featuring leaders in housing reforms.Strategies for effective public engagement around housing and growthCorridor development and place-based investment to drive vibrancyPathways and tools for emerging developersThe limitations of subsidy-only approaches to housing affordabilityEffective\, coordinated responses to homelessness \n \n \n \n Closing with Energy \n \n \n \n Coby Lefkowitz will tie together insights from the day and challenge attendees to think boldly optimistic about the future of housing through coordinated\, cross-sector solutions. Coby is the author of Building Optimism: What a World that Looks Better\, Works Better\, and Feels Better Could Look Like where he explores how we can create more beautiful and livable communities. \n \n \n \n \n \n Donor and sponsor support makes this convening possible and positions partners at the center of regional housing leadership. Sponsors gain visibility with key decision-makers\, align their brand with measurable community impact\, and help catalyze the ideas and collaborations that move housing solutions forward. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n WHO SHOULD ATTEND \n \n \n \n This summit is for leaders and changemakers committed to improving housing outcomes\, including: Housing practitioners and advocatesGovernment and public sector leadersDevelopers and real estate professionalsEmerging developers and entrepreneursNonprofit and community-based leadersPhilanthropic and funding partnersPolicy and civic engagement professionalsAnyone invested in housing affordability\, availability\, and stabilityIf you’re working to shape the future of housing in West Michigan\, this summit is for you. \n \n \n \n \n \n AGENDA12:30 p.m. Registration and Networking 1:00 p.m. Opening Remarks and IntroductionJennifer Radaz\, Housing NextRyan Kilpatrick\, Flywheel Community Development ServicesSam Cummings\, CWD Real Estate Investment 1:40 p.m. Transition + Networking Break 1:55 p.m. Breakout Sessions State Legislative PanelState Representatives Wooden\, Grant and AragonaModerated by Joshua Lunger\, Grand Rapids Chamber Public EngagementJason Wheeler\, Wheeler DevelopmentRyan Schmidt\, IndigoRowan Brady\, City of Grand RapidsModerated by Rebekah Kik\, City of Kalamazoo Corridor RedevelopmentCameron VanWyngarden\, Plainfield TownshipNicole Hofert\, City of WyomingModerated by Ryan Kilpatrick\, Flywheel Community Development Services 2:40 p.m. Transition + Networking Break 2:55 p.m. Breakout Sessions Affordability Won’t Be Solved by Subsidy AloneDave Levitt\, Third CoastBev Thiel\, Habitat for Humanity of Kent CountyModerated by Ryan Kilpatrick\, Flywheel Community Development Services Effective Response to HomelessnessThelma Ensink\, Degagé MinistriesAdrienne Goodstal\, North Kent ConnectTenisa Frye\, Family Promise of West Michigan 4:00 p.m. KeynoteCoby Lefkowitz\, author of “Building Optimism: What a World that Looks Better\, Works Better\, and Feels Better Could Look Like”  5:00 p.m. Happy Hour 6:00 p.m. Adjourn \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Meet our speakers \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Coby Lefkowitz \n \n \n \n Co-Founder & Principal \n \n \n \n Backyard \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Coby Lefkowitz\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ryan Kilpatrick \n \n \n \n Founder + CEO \n \n \n \n Flywheel Community Development Services \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Ryan Kilpatrick\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Sam Cummings \n \n \n \n Managing Partner \n \n \n \n CWD Real Estate Investment \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Sam Cummings\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Event Sponsors \n \n \n \n \n Premier Sponsor \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Housing Champions URL:https://grandrapids.org/event/national-civics-bee-4-15/ LOCATION:Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum\, 303 Pearl St NW\, Grand Rapids\, 49504\, United States CATEGORIES:Advocacy & Government Affairs ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://grandrapids.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/GRC_Civics-Bee-Graphic-a250-scaled.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20260420T073000 DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20260420T090000 DTSTAMP:20260410T114800 CREATED:20251203T195144Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260331T144707Z UID:10000383-1776670200-1776675600@grandrapids.org SUMMARY:Breakfast With Legislators DESCRIPTION:Registration & Pricing\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Join housing leaders\, stakeholders\, and community members from across the region at the West Michigan Housing Summit for a dynamic\, solutions-focused conference centered on innovative strategies for addressing housing challenges. This summit brings together cross-sector voices committed to moving beyond conversation and toward coordinated action on the region’s most pressing housing challenges. \n \n \n \n WHAT TO EXPECT \n \n \n \n A dynamic opening session from Sam Cummings and Ryan Kilpatrick\, reflecting on where we’ve been\, where we are now\, and where we’re headed together as a region. Six targeted breakout sessions addressing critical housing issues\, including: A legislative panel featuring leaders in housing reforms.Strategies for effective public engagement around housing and growthCorridor development and place-based investment to drive vibrancyPathways and tools for emerging developersThe limitations of subsidy-only approaches to housing affordabilityEffective\, coordinated responses to homelessness \n \n \n \n Closing with Energy \n \n \n \n Coby Lefkowitz will tie together insights from the day and challenge attendees to think boldly optimistic about the future of housing through coordinated\, cross-sector solutions. Coby is the author of Building Optimism: What a World that Looks Better\, Works Better\, and Feels Better Could Look Like where he explores how we can create more beautiful and livable communities. \n \n \n \n \n \n Donor and sponsor support makes this convening possible and positions partners at the center of regional housing leadership. Sponsors gain visibility with key decision-makers\, align their brand with measurable community impact\, and help catalyze the ideas and collaborations that move housing solutions forward. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n WHO SHOULD ATTEND \n \n \n \n This summit is for leaders and changemakers committed to improving housing outcomes\, including: Housing practitioners and advocatesGovernment and public sector leadersDevelopers and real estate professionalsEmerging developers and entrepreneursNonprofit and community-based leadersPhilanthropic and funding partnersPolicy and civic engagement professionalsAnyone invested in housing affordability\, availability\, and stabilityIf you’re working to shape the future of housing in West Michigan\, this summit is for you. \n \n \n \n \n \n AGENDA12:30 p.m. Registration and Networking 1:00 p.m. Opening Remarks and IntroductionJennifer Radaz\, Housing NextRyan Kilpatrick\, Flywheel Community Development ServicesSam Cummings\, CWD Real Estate Investment 1:40 p.m. Transition + Networking Break 1:55 p.m. Breakout Sessions State Legislative PanelState Representatives Wooden\, Grant and AragonaModerated by Joshua Lunger\, Grand Rapids Chamber Public EngagementJason Wheeler\, Wheeler DevelopmentRyan Schmidt\, IndigoRowan Brady\, City of Grand RapidsModerated by Rebekah Kik\, City of Kalamazoo Corridor RedevelopmentCameron VanWyngarden\, Plainfield TownshipNicole Hofert\, City of WyomingModerated by Ryan Kilpatrick\, Flywheel Community Development Services 2:40 p.m. Transition + Networking Break 2:55 p.m. Breakout Sessions Affordability Won’t Be Solved by Subsidy AloneDave Levitt\, Third CoastBev Thiel\, Habitat for Humanity of Kent CountyModerated by Ryan Kilpatrick\, Flywheel Community Development Services Effective Response to HomelessnessThelma Ensink\, Degagé MinistriesAdrienne Goodstal\, North Kent ConnectTenisa Frye\, Family Promise of West Michigan 4:00 p.m. KeynoteCoby Lefkowitz\, author of “Building Optimism: What a World that Looks Better\, Works Better\, and Feels Better Could Look Like”  5:00 p.m. Happy Hour 6:00 p.m. Adjourn \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Meet our speakers \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Coby Lefkowitz \n \n \n \n Co-Founder & Principal \n \n \n \n Backyard \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Coby Lefkowitz\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ryan Kilpatrick \n \n \n \n Founder + CEO \n \n \n \n Flywheel Community Development Services \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Ryan Kilpatrick\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Sam Cummings \n \n \n \n Managing Partner \n \n \n \n CWD Real Estate Investment \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Sam Cummings\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Event Sponsors \n \n \n \n \n Premier Sponsor \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Housing Champions URL:https://grandrapids.org/event/breakfast-with-legislators-4-20/ LOCATION:Grand Rapids Chamber\, 250 Monroe Ave\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, 49503\, United States CATEGORIES:Advocacy & Government Affairs ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://grandrapids.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/GRC_BWL-April-2026-scaled.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20260501T100000 DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20260501T103000 DTSTAMP:20260410T114800 CREATED:20251203T194959Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260107T175757Z UID:10000453-1777629600-1777631400@grandrapids.org SUMMARY:First Friday Update DESCRIPTION:Registration & Pricing\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Join housing leaders\, stakeholders\, and community members from across the region at the West Michigan Housing Summit for a dynamic\, solutions-focused conference centered on innovative strategies for addressing housing challenges. This summit brings together cross-sector voices committed to moving beyond conversation and toward coordinated action on the region’s most pressing housing challenges. \n \n \n \n WHAT TO EXPECT \n \n \n \n A dynamic opening session from Sam Cummings and Ryan Kilpatrick\, reflecting on where we’ve been\, where we are now\, and where we’re headed together as a region. Six targeted breakout sessions addressing critical housing issues\, including: A legislative panel featuring leaders in housing reforms.Strategies for effective public engagement around housing and growthCorridor development and place-based investment to drive vibrancyPathways and tools for emerging developersThe limitations of subsidy-only approaches to housing affordabilityEffective\, coordinated responses to homelessness \n \n \n \n Closing with Energy \n \n \n \n Coby Lefkowitz will tie together insights from the day and challenge attendees to think boldly optimistic about the future of housing through coordinated\, cross-sector solutions. Coby is the author of Building Optimism: What a World that Looks Better\, Works Better\, and Feels Better Could Look Like where he explores how we can create more beautiful and livable communities. \n \n \n \n \n \n Donor and sponsor support makes this convening possible and positions partners at the center of regional housing leadership. Sponsors gain visibility with key decision-makers\, align their brand with measurable community impact\, and help catalyze the ideas and collaborations that move housing solutions forward. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n WHO SHOULD ATTEND \n \n \n \n This summit is for leaders and changemakers committed to improving housing outcomes\, including: Housing practitioners and advocatesGovernment and public sector leadersDevelopers and real estate professionalsEmerging developers and entrepreneursNonprofit and community-based leadersPhilanthropic and funding partnersPolicy and civic engagement professionalsAnyone invested in housing affordability\, availability\, and stabilityIf you’re working to shape the future of housing in West Michigan\, this summit is for you. \n \n \n \n \n \n AGENDA12:30 p.m. Registration and Networking 1:00 p.m. Opening Remarks and IntroductionJennifer Radaz\, Housing NextRyan Kilpatrick\, Flywheel Community Development ServicesSam Cummings\, CWD Real Estate Investment 1:40 p.m. Transition + Networking Break 1:55 p.m. Breakout Sessions State Legislative PanelState Representatives Wooden\, Grant and AragonaModerated by Joshua Lunger\, Grand Rapids Chamber Public EngagementJason Wheeler\, Wheeler DevelopmentRyan Schmidt\, IndigoRowan Brady\, City of Grand RapidsModerated by Rebekah Kik\, City of Kalamazoo Corridor RedevelopmentCameron VanWyngarden\, Plainfield TownshipNicole Hofert\, City of WyomingModerated by Ryan Kilpatrick\, Flywheel Community Development Services 2:40 p.m. Transition + Networking Break 2:55 p.m. Breakout Sessions Affordability Won’t Be Solved by Subsidy AloneDave Levitt\, Third CoastBev Thiel\, Habitat for Humanity of Kent CountyModerated by Ryan Kilpatrick\, Flywheel Community Development Services Effective Response to HomelessnessThelma Ensink\, Degagé MinistriesAdrienne Goodstal\, North Kent ConnectTenisa Frye\, Family Promise of West Michigan 4:00 p.m. KeynoteCoby Lefkowitz\, author of “Building Optimism: What a World that Looks Better\, Works Better\, and Feels Better Could Look Like”  5:00 p.m. Happy Hour 6:00 p.m. Adjourn \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Meet our speakers \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Coby Lefkowitz \n \n \n \n Co-Founder & Principal \n \n \n \n Backyard \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Coby Lefkowitz\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ryan Kilpatrick \n \n \n \n Founder + CEO \n \n \n \n Flywheel Community Development Services \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Ryan Kilpatrick\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Sam Cummings \n \n \n \n Managing Partner \n \n \n \n CWD Real Estate Investment \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Sam Cummings\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Event Sponsors \n \n \n \n \n Premier Sponsor \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Housing Champions URL:https://grandrapids.org/event/first-friday-update-5-1/ LOCATION:Zoom Webinar CATEGORIES:Advocacy & Government Affairs,Complimentary Events ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://grandrapids.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/GRC_FFU-May-scaled.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20260602T073000 DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20260602T113000 DTSTAMP:20260410T114800 CREATED:20251113T221510Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260406T140106Z UID:10000380-1780385400-1780399800@grandrapids.org SUMMARY:West Michigan CEO Summit DESCRIPTION:Registration & Pricing\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Join housing leaders\, stakeholders\, and community members from across the region at the West Michigan Housing Summit for a dynamic\, solutions-focused conference centered on innovative strategies for addressing housing challenges. This summit brings together cross-sector voices committed to moving beyond conversation and toward coordinated action on the region’s most pressing housing challenges. \n \n \n \n WHAT TO EXPECT \n \n \n \n A dynamic opening session from Sam Cummings and Ryan Kilpatrick\, reflecting on where we’ve been\, where we are now\, and where we’re headed together as a region. Six targeted breakout sessions addressing critical housing issues\, including: A legislative panel featuring leaders in housing reforms.Strategies for effective public engagement around housing and growthCorridor development and place-based investment to drive vibrancyPathways and tools for emerging developersThe limitations of subsidy-only approaches to housing affordabilityEffective\, coordinated responses to homelessness \n \n \n \n Closing with Energy \n \n \n \n Coby Lefkowitz will tie together insights from the day and challenge attendees to think boldly optimistic about the future of housing through coordinated\, cross-sector solutions. Coby is the author of Building Optimism: What a World that Looks Better\, Works Better\, and Feels Better Could Look Like where he explores how we can create more beautiful and livable communities. \n \n \n \n \n \n Donor and sponsor support makes this convening possible and positions partners at the center of regional housing leadership. Sponsors gain visibility with key decision-makers\, align their brand with measurable community impact\, and help catalyze the ideas and collaborations that move housing solutions forward. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n WHO SHOULD ATTEND \n \n \n \n This summit is for leaders and changemakers committed to improving housing outcomes\, including: Housing practitioners and advocatesGovernment and public sector leadersDevelopers and real estate professionalsEmerging developers and entrepreneursNonprofit and community-based leadersPhilanthropic and funding partnersPolicy and civic engagement professionalsAnyone invested in housing affordability\, availability\, and stabilityIf you’re working to shape the future of housing in West Michigan\, this summit is for you. \n \n \n \n \n \n AGENDA12:30 p.m. Registration and Networking 1:00 p.m. Opening Remarks and IntroductionJennifer Radaz\, Housing NextRyan Kilpatrick\, Flywheel Community Development ServicesSam Cummings\, CWD Real Estate Investment 1:40 p.m. Transition + Networking Break 1:55 p.m. Breakout Sessions State Legislative PanelState Representatives Wooden\, Grant and AragonaModerated by Joshua Lunger\, Grand Rapids Chamber Public EngagementJason Wheeler\, Wheeler DevelopmentRyan Schmidt\, IndigoRowan Brady\, City of Grand RapidsModerated by Rebekah Kik\, City of Kalamazoo Corridor RedevelopmentCameron VanWyngarden\, Plainfield TownshipNicole Hofert\, City of WyomingModerated by Ryan Kilpatrick\, Flywheel Community Development Services 2:40 p.m. Transition + Networking Break 2:55 p.m. Breakout Sessions Affordability Won’t Be Solved by Subsidy AloneDave Levitt\, Third CoastBev Thiel\, Habitat for Humanity of Kent CountyModerated by Ryan Kilpatrick\, Flywheel Community Development Services Effective Response to HomelessnessThelma Ensink\, Degagé MinistriesAdrienne Goodstal\, North Kent ConnectTenisa Frye\, Family Promise of West Michigan 4:00 p.m. KeynoteCoby Lefkowitz\, author of “Building Optimism: What a World that Looks Better\, Works Better\, and Feels Better Could Look Like”  5:00 p.m. Happy Hour 6:00 p.m. Adjourn \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Meet our speakers \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Coby Lefkowitz \n \n \n \n Co-Founder & Principal \n \n \n \n Backyard \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Coby Lefkowitz\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ryan Kilpatrick \n \n \n \n Founder + CEO \n \n \n \n Flywheel Community Development Services \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Ryan Kilpatrick\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Sam Cummings \n \n \n \n Managing Partner \n \n \n \n CWD Real Estate Investment \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Sam Cummings\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Event Sponsors \n \n \n \n \n Premier Sponsor \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Housing Champions URL:https://grandrapids.org/event/west-michigan-ceo-summit-2026/ LOCATION:JW Marriott Grand Rapids: International Ballroom\, 235 Louis St NW\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, 49503\, United States CATEGORIES:Advocacy & Government Affairs,Annual Events & Summits ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://grandrapids.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/GRC_-WMCEO-Summit-2026-No-Theme-scaled.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20260605T100000 DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20260605T103000 DTSTAMP:20260410T114800 CREATED:20251203T194957Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260107T175807Z UID:10000455-1780653600-1780655400@grandrapids.org SUMMARY:First Friday Update DESCRIPTION:Registration & Pricing\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Join housing leaders\, stakeholders\, and community members from across the region at the West Michigan Housing Summit for a dynamic\, solutions-focused conference centered on innovative strategies for addressing housing challenges. This summit brings together cross-sector voices committed to moving beyond conversation and toward coordinated action on the region’s most pressing housing challenges. \n \n \n \n WHAT TO EXPECT \n \n \n \n A dynamic opening session from Sam Cummings and Ryan Kilpatrick\, reflecting on where we’ve been\, where we are now\, and where we’re headed together as a region. Six targeted breakout sessions addressing critical housing issues\, including: A legislative panel featuring leaders in housing reforms.Strategies for effective public engagement around housing and growthCorridor development and place-based investment to drive vibrancyPathways and tools for emerging developersThe limitations of subsidy-only approaches to housing affordabilityEffective\, coordinated responses to homelessness \n \n \n \n Closing with Energy \n \n \n \n Coby Lefkowitz will tie together insights from the day and challenge attendees to think boldly optimistic about the future of housing through coordinated\, cross-sector solutions. Coby is the author of Building Optimism: What a World that Looks Better\, Works Better\, and Feels Better Could Look Like where he explores how we can create more beautiful and livable communities. \n \n \n \n \n \n Donor and sponsor support makes this convening possible and positions partners at the center of regional housing leadership. Sponsors gain visibility with key decision-makers\, align their brand with measurable community impact\, and help catalyze the ideas and collaborations that move housing solutions forward. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n WHO SHOULD ATTEND \n \n \n \n This summit is for leaders and changemakers committed to improving housing outcomes\, including: Housing practitioners and advocatesGovernment and public sector leadersDevelopers and real estate professionalsEmerging developers and entrepreneursNonprofit and community-based leadersPhilanthropic and funding partnersPolicy and civic engagement professionalsAnyone invested in housing affordability\, availability\, and stabilityIf you’re working to shape the future of housing in West Michigan\, this summit is for you. \n \n \n \n \n \n AGENDA12:30 p.m. Registration and Networking 1:00 p.m. Opening Remarks and IntroductionJennifer Radaz\, Housing NextRyan Kilpatrick\, Flywheel Community Development ServicesSam Cummings\, CWD Real Estate Investment 1:40 p.m. Transition + Networking Break 1:55 p.m. Breakout Sessions State Legislative PanelState Representatives Wooden\, Grant and AragonaModerated by Joshua Lunger\, Grand Rapids Chamber Public EngagementJason Wheeler\, Wheeler DevelopmentRyan Schmidt\, IndigoRowan Brady\, City of Grand RapidsModerated by Rebekah Kik\, City of Kalamazoo Corridor RedevelopmentCameron VanWyngarden\, Plainfield TownshipNicole Hofert\, City of WyomingModerated by Ryan Kilpatrick\, Flywheel Community Development Services 2:40 p.m. Transition + Networking Break 2:55 p.m. Breakout Sessions Affordability Won’t Be Solved by Subsidy AloneDave Levitt\, Third CoastBev Thiel\, Habitat for Humanity of Kent CountyModerated by Ryan Kilpatrick\, Flywheel Community Development Services Effective Response to HomelessnessThelma Ensink\, Degagé MinistriesAdrienne Goodstal\, North Kent ConnectTenisa Frye\, Family Promise of West Michigan 4:00 p.m. KeynoteCoby Lefkowitz\, author of “Building Optimism: What a World that Looks Better\, Works Better\, and Feels Better Could Look Like”  5:00 p.m. Happy Hour 6:00 p.m. Adjourn \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Meet our speakers \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Coby Lefkowitz \n \n \n \n Co-Founder & Principal \n \n \n \n Backyard \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Coby Lefkowitz\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ryan Kilpatrick \n \n \n \n Founder + CEO \n \n \n \n Flywheel Community Development Services \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Ryan Kilpatrick\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Sam Cummings \n \n \n \n Managing Partner \n \n \n \n CWD Real Estate Investment \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Sam Cummings\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Event Sponsors \n \n \n \n \n Premier Sponsor \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Housing Champions URL:https://grandrapids.org/event/first-friday-update-6-5/ LOCATION:Zoom Webinar CATEGORIES:Advocacy & Government Affairs,Complimentary Events ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://grandrapids.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/GRC_FFU-June-scaled.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20260625T080000 DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20260625T100000 DTSTAMP:20260410T114800 CREATED:20251203T194853Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260406T141535Z UID:10000419-1782374400-1782381600@grandrapids.org SUMMARY:Chamber Issues Forum: Childcare & Public Spaces for Public Good DESCRIPTION:Registration & Pricing\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Join housing leaders\, stakeholders\, and community members from across the region at the West Michigan Housing Summit for a dynamic\, solutions-focused conference centered on innovative strategies for addressing housing challenges. This summit brings together cross-sector voices committed to moving beyond conversation and toward coordinated action on the region’s most pressing housing challenges. \n \n \n \n WHAT TO EXPECT \n \n \n \n A dynamic opening session from Sam Cummings and Ryan Kilpatrick\, reflecting on where we’ve been\, where we are now\, and where we’re headed together as a region. Six targeted breakout sessions addressing critical housing issues\, including: A legislative panel featuring leaders in housing reforms.Strategies for effective public engagement around housing and growthCorridor development and place-based investment to drive vibrancyPathways and tools for emerging developersThe limitations of subsidy-only approaches to housing affordabilityEffective\, coordinated responses to homelessness \n \n \n \n Closing with Energy \n \n \n \n Coby Lefkowitz will tie together insights from the day and challenge attendees to think boldly optimistic about the future of housing through coordinated\, cross-sector solutions. Coby is the author of Building Optimism: What a World that Looks Better\, Works Better\, and Feels Better Could Look Like where he explores how we can create more beautiful and livable communities. \n \n \n \n \n \n Donor and sponsor support makes this convening possible and positions partners at the center of regional housing leadership. Sponsors gain visibility with key decision-makers\, align their brand with measurable community impact\, and help catalyze the ideas and collaborations that move housing solutions forward. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n WHO SHOULD ATTEND \n \n \n \n This summit is for leaders and changemakers committed to improving housing outcomes\, including: Housing practitioners and advocatesGovernment and public sector leadersDevelopers and real estate professionalsEmerging developers and entrepreneursNonprofit and community-based leadersPhilanthropic and funding partnersPolicy and civic engagement professionalsAnyone invested in housing affordability\, availability\, and stabilityIf you’re working to shape the future of housing in West Michigan\, this summit is for you. \n \n \n \n \n \n AGENDA12:30 p.m. Registration and Networking 1:00 p.m. Opening Remarks and IntroductionJennifer Radaz\, Housing NextRyan Kilpatrick\, Flywheel Community Development ServicesSam Cummings\, CWD Real Estate Investment 1:40 p.m. Transition + Networking Break 1:55 p.m. Breakout Sessions State Legislative PanelState Representatives Wooden\, Grant and AragonaModerated by Joshua Lunger\, Grand Rapids Chamber Public EngagementJason Wheeler\, Wheeler DevelopmentRyan Schmidt\, IndigoRowan Brady\, City of Grand RapidsModerated by Rebekah Kik\, City of Kalamazoo Corridor RedevelopmentCameron VanWyngarden\, Plainfield TownshipNicole Hofert\, City of WyomingModerated by Ryan Kilpatrick\, Flywheel Community Development Services 2:40 p.m. Transition + Networking Break 2:55 p.m. Breakout Sessions Affordability Won’t Be Solved by Subsidy AloneDave Levitt\, Third CoastBev Thiel\, Habitat for Humanity of Kent CountyModerated by Ryan Kilpatrick\, Flywheel Community Development Services Effective Response to HomelessnessThelma Ensink\, Degagé MinistriesAdrienne Goodstal\, North Kent ConnectTenisa Frye\, Family Promise of West Michigan 4:00 p.m. KeynoteCoby Lefkowitz\, author of “Building Optimism: What a World that Looks Better\, Works Better\, and Feels Better Could Look Like”  5:00 p.m. Happy Hour 6:00 p.m. Adjourn \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Meet our speakers \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Coby Lefkowitz \n \n \n \n Co-Founder & Principal \n \n \n \n Backyard \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Coby Lefkowitz\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ryan Kilpatrick \n \n \n \n Founder + CEO \n \n \n \n Flywheel Community Development Services \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Ryan Kilpatrick\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Sam Cummings \n \n \n \n Managing Partner \n \n \n \n CWD Real Estate Investment \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Sam Cummings\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Event Sponsors \n \n \n \n \n Premier Sponsor \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Housing Champions URL:https://grandrapids.org/event/chamber-issues-forum-6-25/ LOCATION:The Information Center at The Rapid Central Station\, 250 Cesar E. Chavez Ave SW\, Grand Rapids\, 49503-4005\, United States CATEGORIES:Advocacy & Government Affairs ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://grandrapids.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/GRC_CIF-June-Graphic-scaled.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20260806T123000 DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20260806T180000 DTSTAMP:20260410T114800 CREATED:20260211T163013Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260401T130405Z UID:10000379-1786019400-1786039200@grandrapids.org SUMMARY:West Michigan Housing Summit DESCRIPTION:Registration & Pricing\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Join housing leaders\, stakeholders\, and community members from across the region at the West Michigan Housing Summit for a dynamic\, solutions-focused conference centered on innovative strategies for addressing housing challenges. This summit brings together cross-sector voices committed to moving beyond conversation and toward coordinated action on the region’s most pressing housing challenges. \n \n \n \n WHAT TO EXPECT \n \n \n \n A dynamic opening session from Sam Cummings and Ryan Kilpatrick\, reflecting on where we’ve been\, where we are now\, and where we’re headed together as a region. Six targeted breakout sessions addressing critical housing issues\, including: A legislative panel featuring leaders in housing reforms.Strategies for effective public engagement around housing and growthCorridor development and place-based investment to drive vibrancyPathways and tools for emerging developersThe limitations of subsidy-only approaches to housing affordabilityEffective\, coordinated responses to homelessness \n \n \n \n Closing with Energy \n \n \n \n Coby Lefkowitz will tie together insights from the day and challenge attendees to think boldly optimistic about the future of housing through coordinated\, cross-sector solutions. Coby is the author of Building Optimism: What a World that Looks Better\, Works Better\, and Feels Better Could Look Like where he explores how we can create more beautiful and livable communities. \n \n \n \n \n \n Donor and sponsor support makes this convening possible and positions partners at the center of regional housing leadership. Sponsors gain visibility with key decision-makers\, align their brand with measurable community impact\, and help catalyze the ideas and collaborations that move housing solutions forward. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n WHO SHOULD ATTEND \n \n \n \n This summit is for leaders and changemakers committed to improving housing outcomes\, including: Housing practitioners and advocatesGovernment and public sector leadersDevelopers and real estate professionalsEmerging developers and entrepreneursNonprofit and community-based leadersPhilanthropic and funding partnersPolicy and civic engagement professionalsAnyone invested in housing affordability\, availability\, and stabilityIf you’re working to shape the future of housing in West Michigan\, this summit is for you. \n \n \n \n \n \n AGENDA12:30 p.m. Registration and Networking 1:00 p.m. Opening Remarks and IntroductionJennifer Radaz\, Housing NextRyan Kilpatrick\, Flywheel Community Development ServicesSam Cummings\, CWD Real Estate Investment 1:40 p.m. Transition + Networking Break 1:55 p.m. Breakout Sessions State Legislative PanelState Representatives Wooden\, Grant and AragonaModerated by Joshua Lunger\, Grand Rapids Chamber Public EngagementJason Wheeler\, Wheeler DevelopmentRyan Schmidt\, IndigoRowan Brady\, City of Grand RapidsModerated by Rebekah Kik\, City of Kalamazoo Corridor RedevelopmentCameron VanWyngarden\, Plainfield TownshipNicole Hofert\, City of WyomingModerated by Ryan Kilpatrick\, Flywheel Community Development Services 2:40 p.m. Transition + Networking Break 2:55 p.m. Breakout Sessions Affordability Won’t Be Solved by Subsidy AloneDave Levitt\, Third CoastBev Thiel\, Habitat for Humanity of Kent CountyModerated by Ryan Kilpatrick\, Flywheel Community Development Services Effective Response to HomelessnessThelma Ensink\, Degagé MinistriesAdrienne Goodstal\, North Kent ConnectTenisa Frye\, Family Promise of West Michigan 4:00 p.m. KeynoteCoby Lefkowitz\, author of “Building Optimism: What a World that Looks Better\, Works Better\, and Feels Better Could Look Like”  5:00 p.m. Happy Hour 6:00 p.m. Adjourn \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Meet our speakers \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Coby Lefkowitz \n \n \n \n Co-Founder & Principal \n \n \n \n Backyard \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Coby Lefkowitz\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ryan Kilpatrick \n \n \n \n Founder + CEO \n \n \n \n Flywheel Community Development Services \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Ryan Kilpatrick\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Sam Cummings \n \n \n \n Managing Partner \n \n \n \n CWD Real Estate Investment \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Sam Cummings\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Event Sponsors \n \n \n \n \n Premier Sponsor \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Housing Champions URL:https://grandrapids.org/event/west-michigan-housing-summit-2026/ LOCATION:Richard M. DeVos Center\, GVSU’s Pew Campus\, 401 Fulton St W\, Grand Rapids\, 49504\, United States CATEGORIES:Advocacy & Government Affairs,Annual Events & Summits ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://grandrapids.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/GRC_WMHS-2026-Graphic-scaled.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20260807T100000 DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20260807T103000 DTSTAMP:20260410T114800 CREATED:20251203T194955Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260107T175813Z UID:10000456-1786096800-1786098600@grandrapids.org SUMMARY:First Friday Update DESCRIPTION:Registration & Pricing\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Join housing leaders\, stakeholders\, and community members from across the region at the West Michigan Housing Summit for a dynamic\, solutions-focused conference centered on innovative strategies for addressing housing challenges. This summit brings together cross-sector voices committed to moving beyond conversation and toward coordinated action on the region’s most pressing housing challenges. \n \n \n \n WHAT TO EXPECT \n \n \n \n A dynamic opening session from Sam Cummings and Ryan Kilpatrick\, reflecting on where we’ve been\, where we are now\, and where we’re headed together as a region. Six targeted breakout sessions addressing critical housing issues\, including: A legislative panel featuring leaders in housing reforms.Strategies for effective public engagement around housing and growthCorridor development and place-based investment to drive vibrancyPathways and tools for emerging developersThe limitations of subsidy-only approaches to housing affordabilityEffective\, coordinated responses to homelessness \n \n \n \n Closing with Energy \n \n \n \n Coby Lefkowitz will tie together insights from the day and challenge attendees to think boldly optimistic about the future of housing through coordinated\, cross-sector solutions. Coby is the author of Building Optimism: What a World that Looks Better\, Works Better\, and Feels Better Could Look Like where he explores how we can create more beautiful and livable communities. \n \n \n \n \n \n Donor and sponsor support makes this convening possible and positions partners at the center of regional housing leadership. Sponsors gain visibility with key decision-makers\, align their brand with measurable community impact\, and help catalyze the ideas and collaborations that move housing solutions forward. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n WHO SHOULD ATTEND \n \n \n \n This summit is for leaders and changemakers committed to improving housing outcomes\, including: Housing practitioners and advocatesGovernment and public sector leadersDevelopers and real estate professionalsEmerging developers and entrepreneursNonprofit and community-based leadersPhilanthropic and funding partnersPolicy and civic engagement professionalsAnyone invested in housing affordability\, availability\, and stabilityIf you’re working to shape the future of housing in West Michigan\, this summit is for you. \n \n \n \n \n \n AGENDA12:30 p.m. Registration and Networking 1:00 p.m. Opening Remarks and IntroductionJennifer Radaz\, Housing NextRyan Kilpatrick\, Flywheel Community Development ServicesSam Cummings\, CWD Real Estate Investment 1:40 p.m. Transition + Networking Break 1:55 p.m. Breakout Sessions State Legislative PanelState Representatives Wooden\, Grant and AragonaModerated by Joshua Lunger\, Grand Rapids Chamber Public EngagementJason Wheeler\, Wheeler DevelopmentRyan Schmidt\, IndigoRowan Brady\, City of Grand RapidsModerated by Rebekah Kik\, City of Kalamazoo Corridor RedevelopmentCameron VanWyngarden\, Plainfield TownshipNicole Hofert\, City of WyomingModerated by Ryan Kilpatrick\, Flywheel Community Development Services 2:40 p.m. Transition + Networking Break 2:55 p.m. Breakout Sessions Affordability Won’t Be Solved by Subsidy AloneDave Levitt\, Third CoastBev Thiel\, Habitat for Humanity of Kent CountyModerated by Ryan Kilpatrick\, Flywheel Community Development Services Effective Response to HomelessnessThelma Ensink\, Degagé MinistriesAdrienne Goodstal\, North Kent ConnectTenisa Frye\, Family Promise of West Michigan 4:00 p.m. KeynoteCoby Lefkowitz\, author of “Building Optimism: What a World that Looks Better\, Works Better\, and Feels Better Could Look Like”  5:00 p.m. Happy Hour 6:00 p.m. Adjourn \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Meet our speakers \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Coby Lefkowitz \n \n \n \n Co-Founder & Principal \n \n \n \n Backyard \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Coby Lefkowitz\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ryan Kilpatrick \n \n \n \n Founder + CEO \n \n \n \n Flywheel Community Development Services \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Ryan Kilpatrick\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Sam Cummings \n \n \n \n Managing Partner \n \n \n \n CWD Real Estate Investment \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Sam Cummings\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Event Sponsors \n \n \n \n \n Premier Sponsor \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Housing Champions URL:https://grandrapids.org/event/first-friday-update-8-7/ LOCATION:Zoom Webinar CATEGORIES:Advocacy & Government Affairs,Complimentary Events ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://grandrapids.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/GRC_FFU-August-scaled.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20260828T080000 DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20260828T100000 DTSTAMP:20260410T114800 CREATED:20251203T194851Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260206T210233Z UID:10000420-1787904000-1787911200@grandrapids.org SUMMARY:Chamber Issues Forum DESCRIPTION:Registration & Pricing\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Join housing leaders\, stakeholders\, and community members from across the region at the West Michigan Housing Summit for a dynamic\, solutions-focused conference centered on innovative strategies for addressing housing challenges. This summit brings together cross-sector voices committed to moving beyond conversation and toward coordinated action on the region’s most pressing housing challenges. \n \n \n \n WHAT TO EXPECT \n \n \n \n A dynamic opening session from Sam Cummings and Ryan Kilpatrick\, reflecting on where we’ve been\, where we are now\, and where we’re headed together as a region. Six targeted breakout sessions addressing critical housing issues\, including: A legislative panel featuring leaders in housing reforms.Strategies for effective public engagement around housing and growthCorridor development and place-based investment to drive vibrancyPathways and tools for emerging developersThe limitations of subsidy-only approaches to housing affordabilityEffective\, coordinated responses to homelessness \n \n \n \n Closing with Energy \n \n \n \n Coby Lefkowitz will tie together insights from the day and challenge attendees to think boldly optimistic about the future of housing through coordinated\, cross-sector solutions. Coby is the author of Building Optimism: What a World that Looks Better\, Works Better\, and Feels Better Could Look Like where he explores how we can create more beautiful and livable communities. \n \n \n \n \n \n Donor and sponsor support makes this convening possible and positions partners at the center of regional housing leadership. Sponsors gain visibility with key decision-makers\, align their brand with measurable community impact\, and help catalyze the ideas and collaborations that move housing solutions forward. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n WHO SHOULD ATTEND \n \n \n \n This summit is for leaders and changemakers committed to improving housing outcomes\, including: Housing practitioners and advocatesGovernment and public sector leadersDevelopers and real estate professionalsEmerging developers and entrepreneursNonprofit and community-based leadersPhilanthropic and funding partnersPolicy and civic engagement professionalsAnyone invested in housing affordability\, availability\, and stabilityIf you’re working to shape the future of housing in West Michigan\, this summit is for you. \n \n \n \n \n \n AGENDA12:30 p.m. Registration and Networking 1:00 p.m. Opening Remarks and IntroductionJennifer Radaz\, Housing NextRyan Kilpatrick\, Flywheel Community Development ServicesSam Cummings\, CWD Real Estate Investment 1:40 p.m. Transition + Networking Break 1:55 p.m. Breakout Sessions State Legislative PanelState Representatives Wooden\, Grant and AragonaModerated by Joshua Lunger\, Grand Rapids Chamber Public EngagementJason Wheeler\, Wheeler DevelopmentRyan Schmidt\, IndigoRowan Brady\, City of Grand RapidsModerated by Rebekah Kik\, City of Kalamazoo Corridor RedevelopmentCameron VanWyngarden\, Plainfield TownshipNicole Hofert\, City of WyomingModerated by Ryan Kilpatrick\, Flywheel Community Development Services 2:40 p.m. Transition + Networking Break 2:55 p.m. Breakout Sessions Affordability Won’t Be Solved by Subsidy AloneDave Levitt\, Third CoastBev Thiel\, Habitat for Humanity of Kent CountyModerated by Ryan Kilpatrick\, Flywheel Community Development Services Effective Response to HomelessnessThelma Ensink\, Degagé MinistriesAdrienne Goodstal\, North Kent ConnectTenisa Frye\, Family Promise of West Michigan 4:00 p.m. KeynoteCoby Lefkowitz\, author of “Building Optimism: What a World that Looks Better\, Works Better\, and Feels Better Could Look Like”  5:00 p.m. Happy Hour 6:00 p.m. Adjourn \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Meet our speakers \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Coby Lefkowitz \n \n \n \n Co-Founder & Principal \n \n \n \n Backyard \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Coby Lefkowitz\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ryan Kilpatrick \n \n \n \n Founder + CEO \n \n \n \n Flywheel Community Development Services \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Ryan Kilpatrick\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Sam Cummings \n \n \n \n Managing Partner \n \n \n \n CWD Real Estate Investment \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Sam Cummings\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Event Sponsors \n \n \n \n \n Premier Sponsor \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Housing Champions URL:https://grandrapids.org/event/chamber-issues-forum-8-28/ LOCATION:Grand Rapids Chamber\, 250 Monroe Ave\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, 49503\, United States CATEGORIES:Advocacy & Government Affairs ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://grandrapids.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/GRC_CIF-August-scaled.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20260904T100000 DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20260904T103000 DTSTAMP:20260410T114800 CREATED:20251203T194952Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260107T175820Z UID:10000457-1788516000-1788517800@grandrapids.org SUMMARY:First Friday Update DESCRIPTION:Registration & Pricing\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Join housing leaders\, stakeholders\, and community members from across the region at the West Michigan Housing Summit for a dynamic\, solutions-focused conference centered on innovative strategies for addressing housing challenges. This summit brings together cross-sector voices committed to moving beyond conversation and toward coordinated action on the region’s most pressing housing challenges. \n \n \n \n WHAT TO EXPECT \n \n \n \n A dynamic opening session from Sam Cummings and Ryan Kilpatrick\, reflecting on where we’ve been\, where we are now\, and where we’re headed together as a region. Six targeted breakout sessions addressing critical housing issues\, including: A legislative panel featuring leaders in housing reforms.Strategies for effective public engagement around housing and growthCorridor development and place-based investment to drive vibrancyPathways and tools for emerging developersThe limitations of subsidy-only approaches to housing affordabilityEffective\, coordinated responses to homelessness \n \n \n \n Closing with Energy \n \n \n \n Coby Lefkowitz will tie together insights from the day and challenge attendees to think boldly optimistic about the future of housing through coordinated\, cross-sector solutions. Coby is the author of Building Optimism: What a World that Looks Better\, Works Better\, and Feels Better Could Look Like where he explores how we can create more beautiful and livable communities. \n \n \n \n \n \n Donor and sponsor support makes this convening possible and positions partners at the center of regional housing leadership. Sponsors gain visibility with key decision-makers\, align their brand with measurable community impact\, and help catalyze the ideas and collaborations that move housing solutions forward. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n WHO SHOULD ATTEND \n \n \n \n This summit is for leaders and changemakers committed to improving housing outcomes\, including: Housing practitioners and advocatesGovernment and public sector leadersDevelopers and real estate professionalsEmerging developers and entrepreneursNonprofit and community-based leadersPhilanthropic and funding partnersPolicy and civic engagement professionalsAnyone invested in housing affordability\, availability\, and stabilityIf you’re working to shape the future of housing in West Michigan\, this summit is for you. \n \n \n \n \n \n AGENDA12:30 p.m. Registration and Networking 1:00 p.m. Opening Remarks and IntroductionJennifer Radaz\, Housing NextRyan Kilpatrick\, Flywheel Community Development ServicesSam Cummings\, CWD Real Estate Investment 1:40 p.m. Transition + Networking Break 1:55 p.m. Breakout Sessions State Legislative PanelState Representatives Wooden\, Grant and AragonaModerated by Joshua Lunger\, Grand Rapids Chamber Public EngagementJason Wheeler\, Wheeler DevelopmentRyan Schmidt\, IndigoRowan Brady\, City of Grand RapidsModerated by Rebekah Kik\, City of Kalamazoo Corridor RedevelopmentCameron VanWyngarden\, Plainfield TownshipNicole Hofert\, City of WyomingModerated by Ryan Kilpatrick\, Flywheel Community Development Services 2:40 p.m. Transition + Networking Break 2:55 p.m. Breakout Sessions Affordability Won’t Be Solved by Subsidy AloneDave Levitt\, Third CoastBev Thiel\, Habitat for Humanity of Kent CountyModerated by Ryan Kilpatrick\, Flywheel Community Development Services Effective Response to HomelessnessThelma Ensink\, Degagé MinistriesAdrienne Goodstal\, North Kent ConnectTenisa Frye\, Family Promise of West Michigan 4:00 p.m. KeynoteCoby Lefkowitz\, author of “Building Optimism: What a World that Looks Better\, Works Better\, and Feels Better Could Look Like”  5:00 p.m. Happy Hour 6:00 p.m. Adjourn \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Meet our speakers \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Coby Lefkowitz \n \n \n \n Co-Founder & Principal \n \n \n \n Backyard \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Coby Lefkowitz\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ryan Kilpatrick \n \n \n \n Founder + CEO \n \n \n \n Flywheel Community Development Services \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Ryan Kilpatrick\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Sam Cummings \n \n \n \n Managing Partner \n \n \n \n CWD Real Estate Investment \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Sam Cummings\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Event Sponsors \n \n \n \n \n Premier Sponsor \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Housing Champions URL:https://grandrapids.org/event/first-friday-update-9-4/ LOCATION:Zoom Webinar CATEGORIES:Advocacy & Government Affairs,Complimentary Events ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://grandrapids.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/GRC_FFU-September-scaled.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20260921T073000 DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20260921T090000 DTSTAMP:20260410T114800 CREATED:20251203T195142Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260323T143008Z UID:10000384-1789975800-1789981200@grandrapids.org SUMMARY:Breakfast With Legislators DESCRIPTION:Registration & Pricing\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Join housing leaders\, stakeholders\, and community members from across the region at the West Michigan Housing Summit for a dynamic\, solutions-focused conference centered on innovative strategies for addressing housing challenges. This summit brings together cross-sector voices committed to moving beyond conversation and toward coordinated action on the region’s most pressing housing challenges. \n \n \n \n WHAT TO EXPECT \n \n \n \n A dynamic opening session from Sam Cummings and Ryan Kilpatrick\, reflecting on where we’ve been\, where we are now\, and where we’re headed together as a region. Six targeted breakout sessions addressing critical housing issues\, including: A legislative panel featuring leaders in housing reforms.Strategies for effective public engagement around housing and growthCorridor development and place-based investment to drive vibrancyPathways and tools for emerging developersThe limitations of subsidy-only approaches to housing affordabilityEffective\, coordinated responses to homelessness \n \n \n \n Closing with Energy \n \n \n \n Coby Lefkowitz will tie together insights from the day and challenge attendees to think boldly optimistic about the future of housing through coordinated\, cross-sector solutions. Coby is the author of Building Optimism: What a World that Looks Better\, Works Better\, and Feels Better Could Look Like where he explores how we can create more beautiful and livable communities. \n \n \n \n \n \n Donor and sponsor support makes this convening possible and positions partners at the center of regional housing leadership. Sponsors gain visibility with key decision-makers\, align their brand with measurable community impact\, and help catalyze the ideas and collaborations that move housing solutions forward. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n WHO SHOULD ATTEND \n \n \n \n This summit is for leaders and changemakers committed to improving housing outcomes\, including: Housing practitioners and advocatesGovernment and public sector leadersDevelopers and real estate professionalsEmerging developers and entrepreneursNonprofit and community-based leadersPhilanthropic and funding partnersPolicy and civic engagement professionalsAnyone invested in housing affordability\, availability\, and stabilityIf you’re working to shape the future of housing in West Michigan\, this summit is for you. \n \n \n \n \n \n AGENDA12:30 p.m. Registration and Networking 1:00 p.m. Opening Remarks and IntroductionJennifer Radaz\, Housing NextRyan Kilpatrick\, Flywheel Community Development ServicesSam Cummings\, CWD Real Estate Investment 1:40 p.m. Transition + Networking Break 1:55 p.m. Breakout Sessions State Legislative PanelState Representatives Wooden\, Grant and AragonaModerated by Joshua Lunger\, Grand Rapids Chamber Public EngagementJason Wheeler\, Wheeler DevelopmentRyan Schmidt\, IndigoRowan Brady\, City of Grand RapidsModerated by Rebekah Kik\, City of Kalamazoo Corridor RedevelopmentCameron VanWyngarden\, Plainfield TownshipNicole Hofert\, City of WyomingModerated by Ryan Kilpatrick\, Flywheel Community Development Services 2:40 p.m. Transition + Networking Break 2:55 p.m. Breakout Sessions Affordability Won’t Be Solved by Subsidy AloneDave Levitt\, Third CoastBev Thiel\, Habitat for Humanity of Kent CountyModerated by Ryan Kilpatrick\, Flywheel Community Development Services Effective Response to HomelessnessThelma Ensink\, Degagé MinistriesAdrienne Goodstal\, North Kent ConnectTenisa Frye\, Family Promise of West Michigan 4:00 p.m. KeynoteCoby Lefkowitz\, author of “Building Optimism: What a World that Looks Better\, Works Better\, and Feels Better Could Look Like”  5:00 p.m. Happy Hour 6:00 p.m. Adjourn \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Meet our speakers \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Coby Lefkowitz \n \n \n \n Co-Founder & Principal \n \n \n \n Backyard \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Coby Lefkowitz\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ryan Kilpatrick \n \n \n \n Founder + CEO \n \n \n \n Flywheel Community Development Services \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Ryan Kilpatrick\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Sam Cummings \n \n \n \n Managing Partner \n \n \n \n CWD Real Estate Investment \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Sam Cummings\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Event Sponsors \n \n \n \n \n Premier Sponsor \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Housing Champions URL:https://grandrapids.org/event/breakfast-with-legislators-9-21/ LOCATION:Grand Rapids Chamber\, 250 Monroe Ave\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, 49503\, United States CATEGORIES:Advocacy & Government Affairs ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://grandrapids.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/GRC_BWL-September-2026-scaled.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20261002T100000 DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20261002T103000 DTSTAMP:20260410T114801 CREATED:20251203T194950Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260107T175828Z UID:10000458-1790935200-1790937000@grandrapids.org SUMMARY:First Friday Update DESCRIPTION:Registration & Pricing\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Join housing leaders\, stakeholders\, and community members from across the region at the West Michigan Housing Summit for a dynamic\, solutions-focused conference centered on innovative strategies for addressing housing challenges. This summit brings together cross-sector voices committed to moving beyond conversation and toward coordinated action on the region’s most pressing housing challenges. \n \n \n \n WHAT TO EXPECT \n \n \n \n A dynamic opening session from Sam Cummings and Ryan Kilpatrick\, reflecting on where we’ve been\, where we are now\, and where we’re headed together as a region. Six targeted breakout sessions addressing critical housing issues\, including: A legislative panel featuring leaders in housing reforms.Strategies for effective public engagement around housing and growthCorridor development and place-based investment to drive vibrancyPathways and tools for emerging developersThe limitations of subsidy-only approaches to housing affordabilityEffective\, coordinated responses to homelessness \n \n \n \n Closing with Energy \n \n \n \n Coby Lefkowitz will tie together insights from the day and challenge attendees to think boldly optimistic about the future of housing through coordinated\, cross-sector solutions. Coby is the author of Building Optimism: What a World that Looks Better\, Works Better\, and Feels Better Could Look Like where he explores how we can create more beautiful and livable communities. \n \n \n \n \n \n Donor and sponsor support makes this convening possible and positions partners at the center of regional housing leadership. Sponsors gain visibility with key decision-makers\, align their brand with measurable community impact\, and help catalyze the ideas and collaborations that move housing solutions forward. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n WHO SHOULD ATTEND \n \n \n \n This summit is for leaders and changemakers committed to improving housing outcomes\, including: Housing practitioners and advocatesGovernment and public sector leadersDevelopers and real estate professionalsEmerging developers and entrepreneursNonprofit and community-based leadersPhilanthropic and funding partnersPolicy and civic engagement professionalsAnyone invested in housing affordability\, availability\, and stabilityIf you’re working to shape the future of housing in West Michigan\, this summit is for you. \n \n \n \n \n \n AGENDA12:30 p.m. Registration and Networking 1:00 p.m. Opening Remarks and IntroductionJennifer Radaz\, Housing NextRyan Kilpatrick\, Flywheel Community Development ServicesSam Cummings\, CWD Real Estate Investment 1:40 p.m. Transition + Networking Break 1:55 p.m. Breakout Sessions State Legislative PanelState Representatives Wooden\, Grant and AragonaModerated by Joshua Lunger\, Grand Rapids Chamber Public EngagementJason Wheeler\, Wheeler DevelopmentRyan Schmidt\, IndigoRowan Brady\, City of Grand RapidsModerated by Rebekah Kik\, City of Kalamazoo Corridor RedevelopmentCameron VanWyngarden\, Plainfield TownshipNicole Hofert\, City of WyomingModerated by Ryan Kilpatrick\, Flywheel Community Development Services 2:40 p.m. Transition + Networking Break 2:55 p.m. Breakout Sessions Affordability Won’t Be Solved by Subsidy AloneDave Levitt\, Third CoastBev Thiel\, Habitat for Humanity of Kent CountyModerated by Ryan Kilpatrick\, Flywheel Community Development Services Effective Response to HomelessnessThelma Ensink\, Degagé MinistriesAdrienne Goodstal\, North Kent ConnectTenisa Frye\, Family Promise of West Michigan 4:00 p.m. KeynoteCoby Lefkowitz\, author of “Building Optimism: What a World that Looks Better\, Works Better\, and Feels Better Could Look Like”  5:00 p.m. Happy Hour 6:00 p.m. Adjourn \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Meet our speakers \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Coby Lefkowitz \n \n \n \n Co-Founder & Principal \n \n \n \n Backyard \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Coby Lefkowitz\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ryan Kilpatrick \n \n \n \n Founder + CEO \n \n \n \n Flywheel Community Development Services \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Ryan Kilpatrick\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Sam Cummings \n \n \n \n Managing Partner \n \n \n \n CWD Real Estate Investment \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Sam Cummings\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Event Sponsors \n \n \n \n \n Premier Sponsor \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Housing Champions URL:https://grandrapids.org/event/first-friday-update-10-2/ LOCATION:Zoom Webinar CATEGORIES:Advocacy & Government Affairs,Complimentary Events ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://grandrapids.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/GRC_FFU-October-scaled.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20261106T100000 DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20261106T103000 DTSTAMP:20260410T114801 CREATED:20251203T194948Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260107T175833Z UID:10000459-1793959200-1793961000@grandrapids.org SUMMARY:First Friday Update DESCRIPTION:Registration & Pricing\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Join housing leaders\, stakeholders\, and community members from across the region at the West Michigan Housing Summit for a dynamic\, solutions-focused conference centered on innovative strategies for addressing housing challenges. This summit brings together cross-sector voices committed to moving beyond conversation and toward coordinated action on the region’s most pressing housing challenges. \n \n \n \n WHAT TO EXPECT \n \n \n \n A dynamic opening session from Sam Cummings and Ryan Kilpatrick\, reflecting on where we’ve been\, where we are now\, and where we’re headed together as a region. Six targeted breakout sessions addressing critical housing issues\, including: A legislative panel featuring leaders in housing reforms.Strategies for effective public engagement around housing and growthCorridor development and place-based investment to drive vibrancyPathways and tools for emerging developersThe limitations of subsidy-only approaches to housing affordabilityEffective\, coordinated responses to homelessness \n \n \n \n Closing with Energy \n \n \n \n Coby Lefkowitz will tie together insights from the day and challenge attendees to think boldly optimistic about the future of housing through coordinated\, cross-sector solutions. Coby is the author of Building Optimism: What a World that Looks Better\, Works Better\, and Feels Better Could Look Like where he explores how we can create more beautiful and livable communities. \n \n \n \n \n \n Donor and sponsor support makes this convening possible and positions partners at the center of regional housing leadership. Sponsors gain visibility with key decision-makers\, align their brand with measurable community impact\, and help catalyze the ideas and collaborations that move housing solutions forward. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n WHO SHOULD ATTEND \n \n \n \n This summit is for leaders and changemakers committed to improving housing outcomes\, including: Housing practitioners and advocatesGovernment and public sector leadersDevelopers and real estate professionalsEmerging developers and entrepreneursNonprofit and community-based leadersPhilanthropic and funding partnersPolicy and civic engagement professionalsAnyone invested in housing affordability\, availability\, and stabilityIf you’re working to shape the future of housing in West Michigan\, this summit is for you. \n \n \n \n \n \n AGENDA12:30 p.m. Registration and Networking 1:00 p.m. Opening Remarks and IntroductionJennifer Radaz\, Housing NextRyan Kilpatrick\, Flywheel Community Development ServicesSam Cummings\, CWD Real Estate Investment 1:40 p.m. Transition + Networking Break 1:55 p.m. Breakout Sessions State Legislative PanelState Representatives Wooden\, Grant and AragonaModerated by Joshua Lunger\, Grand Rapids Chamber Public EngagementJason Wheeler\, Wheeler DevelopmentRyan Schmidt\, IndigoRowan Brady\, City of Grand RapidsModerated by Rebekah Kik\, City of Kalamazoo Corridor RedevelopmentCameron VanWyngarden\, Plainfield TownshipNicole Hofert\, City of WyomingModerated by Ryan Kilpatrick\, Flywheel Community Development Services 2:40 p.m. Transition + Networking Break 2:55 p.m. Breakout Sessions Affordability Won’t Be Solved by Subsidy AloneDave Levitt\, Third CoastBev Thiel\, Habitat for Humanity of Kent CountyModerated by Ryan Kilpatrick\, Flywheel Community Development Services Effective Response to HomelessnessThelma Ensink\, Degagé MinistriesAdrienne Goodstal\, North Kent ConnectTenisa Frye\, Family Promise of West Michigan 4:00 p.m. KeynoteCoby Lefkowitz\, author of “Building Optimism: What a World that Looks Better\, Works Better\, and Feels Better Could Look Like”  5:00 p.m. Happy Hour 6:00 p.m. Adjourn \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Meet our speakers \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Coby Lefkowitz \n \n \n \n Co-Founder & Principal \n \n \n \n Backyard \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Coby Lefkowitz\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ryan Kilpatrick \n \n \n \n Founder + CEO \n \n \n \n Flywheel Community Development Services \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Ryan Kilpatrick\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Sam Cummings \n \n \n \n Managing Partner \n \n \n \n CWD Real Estate Investment \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Sam Cummings\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Event Sponsors \n \n \n \n \n Premier Sponsor \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Housing Champions URL:https://grandrapids.org/event/first-friday-update-11-6/ LOCATION:Zoom Webinar CATEGORIES:Advocacy & Government Affairs,Complimentary Events ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://grandrapids.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/GRC_FFU-November-scaled.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20261120T080000 DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20261120T100000 DTSTAMP:20260410T114801 CREATED:20251203T194848Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260206T210200Z UID:10000421-1795161600-1795168800@grandrapids.org SUMMARY:Chamber Issues Forum DESCRIPTION:Registration & Pricing\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Join housing leaders\, stakeholders\, and community members from across the region at the West Michigan Housing Summit for a dynamic\, solutions-focused conference centered on innovative strategies for addressing housing challenges. This summit brings together cross-sector voices committed to moving beyond conversation and toward coordinated action on the region’s most pressing housing challenges. \n \n \n \n WHAT TO EXPECT \n \n \n \n A dynamic opening session from Sam Cummings and Ryan Kilpatrick\, reflecting on where we’ve been\, where we are now\, and where we’re headed together as a region. Six targeted breakout sessions addressing critical housing issues\, including: A legislative panel featuring leaders in housing reforms.Strategies for effective public engagement around housing and growthCorridor development and place-based investment to drive vibrancyPathways and tools for emerging developersThe limitations of subsidy-only approaches to housing affordabilityEffective\, coordinated responses to homelessness \n \n \n \n Closing with Energy \n \n \n \n Coby Lefkowitz will tie together insights from the day and challenge attendees to think boldly optimistic about the future of housing through coordinated\, cross-sector solutions. Coby is the author of Building Optimism: What a World that Looks Better\, Works Better\, and Feels Better Could Look Like where he explores how we can create more beautiful and livable communities. \n \n \n \n \n \n Donor and sponsor support makes this convening possible and positions partners at the center of regional housing leadership. Sponsors gain visibility with key decision-makers\, align their brand with measurable community impact\, and help catalyze the ideas and collaborations that move housing solutions forward. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n WHO SHOULD ATTEND \n \n \n \n This summit is for leaders and changemakers committed to improving housing outcomes\, including: Housing practitioners and advocatesGovernment and public sector leadersDevelopers and real estate professionalsEmerging developers and entrepreneursNonprofit and community-based leadersPhilanthropic and funding partnersPolicy and civic engagement professionalsAnyone invested in housing affordability\, availability\, and stabilityIf you’re working to shape the future of housing in West Michigan\, this summit is for you. \n \n \n \n \n \n AGENDA12:30 p.m. Registration and Networking 1:00 p.m. Opening Remarks and IntroductionJennifer Radaz\, Housing NextRyan Kilpatrick\, Flywheel Community Development ServicesSam Cummings\, CWD Real Estate Investment 1:40 p.m. Transition + Networking Break 1:55 p.m. Breakout Sessions State Legislative PanelState Representatives Wooden\, Grant and AragonaModerated by Joshua Lunger\, Grand Rapids Chamber Public EngagementJason Wheeler\, Wheeler DevelopmentRyan Schmidt\, IndigoRowan Brady\, City of Grand RapidsModerated by Rebekah Kik\, City of Kalamazoo Corridor RedevelopmentCameron VanWyngarden\, Plainfield TownshipNicole Hofert\, City of WyomingModerated by Ryan Kilpatrick\, Flywheel Community Development Services 2:40 p.m. Transition + Networking Break 2:55 p.m. Breakout Sessions Affordability Won’t Be Solved by Subsidy AloneDave Levitt\, Third CoastBev Thiel\, Habitat for Humanity of Kent CountyModerated by Ryan Kilpatrick\, Flywheel Community Development Services Effective Response to HomelessnessThelma Ensink\, Degagé MinistriesAdrienne Goodstal\, North Kent ConnectTenisa Frye\, Family Promise of West Michigan 4:00 p.m. KeynoteCoby Lefkowitz\, author of “Building Optimism: What a World that Looks Better\, Works Better\, and Feels Better Could Look Like”  5:00 p.m. Happy Hour 6:00 p.m. Adjourn \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Meet our speakers \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Coby Lefkowitz \n \n \n \n Co-Founder & Principal \n \n \n \n Backyard \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Coby Lefkowitz\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ryan Kilpatrick \n \n \n \n Founder + CEO \n \n \n \n Flywheel Community Development Services \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Ryan Kilpatrick\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Sam Cummings \n \n \n \n Managing Partner \n \n \n \n CWD Real Estate Investment \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Sam Cummings\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Event Sponsors \n \n \n \n \n Premier Sponsor \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Housing Champions URL:https://grandrapids.org/event/chamber-issues-forum-11-20/ LOCATION:Grand Rapids Chamber\, 250 Monroe Ave\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, 49503\, United States CATEGORIES:Advocacy & Government Affairs ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://grandrapids.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/GRC_CIF-November-scaled.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20261204T100000 DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20261204T103000 DTSTAMP:20260410T114801 CREATED:20251203T194945Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260107T175841Z UID:10000460-1796378400-1796380200@grandrapids.org SUMMARY:First Friday Update DESCRIPTION:Registration & Pricing\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Join housing leaders\, stakeholders\, and community members from across the region at the West Michigan Housing Summit for a dynamic\, solutions-focused conference centered on innovative strategies for addressing housing challenges. This summit brings together cross-sector voices committed to moving beyond conversation and toward coordinated action on the region’s most pressing housing challenges. \n \n \n \n WHAT TO EXPECT \n \n \n \n A dynamic opening session from Sam Cummings and Ryan Kilpatrick\, reflecting on where we’ve been\, where we are now\, and where we’re headed together as a region. Six targeted breakout sessions addressing critical housing issues\, including: A legislative panel featuring leaders in housing reforms.Strategies for effective public engagement around housing and growthCorridor development and place-based investment to drive vibrancyPathways and tools for emerging developersThe limitations of subsidy-only approaches to housing affordabilityEffective\, coordinated responses to homelessness \n \n \n \n Closing with Energy \n \n \n \n Coby Lefkowitz will tie together insights from the day and challenge attendees to think boldly optimistic about the future of housing through coordinated\, cross-sector solutions. Coby is the author of Building Optimism: What a World that Looks Better\, Works Better\, and Feels Better Could Look Like where he explores how we can create more beautiful and livable communities. \n \n \n \n \n \n Donor and sponsor support makes this convening possible and positions partners at the center of regional housing leadership. Sponsors gain visibility with key decision-makers\, align their brand with measurable community impact\, and help catalyze the ideas and collaborations that move housing solutions forward. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n WHO SHOULD ATTEND \n \n \n \n This summit is for leaders and changemakers committed to improving housing outcomes\, including: Housing practitioners and advocatesGovernment and public sector leadersDevelopers and real estate professionalsEmerging developers and entrepreneursNonprofit and community-based leadersPhilanthropic and funding partnersPolicy and civic engagement professionalsAnyone invested in housing affordability\, availability\, and stabilityIf you’re working to shape the future of housing in West Michigan\, this summit is for you. \n \n \n \n \n \n AGENDA12:30 p.m. Registration and Networking 1:00 p.m. Opening Remarks and IntroductionJennifer Radaz\, Housing NextRyan Kilpatrick\, Flywheel Community Development ServicesSam Cummings\, CWD Real Estate Investment 1:40 p.m. Transition + Networking Break 1:55 p.m. Breakout Sessions State Legislative PanelState Representatives Wooden\, Grant and AragonaModerated by Joshua Lunger\, Grand Rapids Chamber Public EngagementJason Wheeler\, Wheeler DevelopmentRyan Schmidt\, IndigoRowan Brady\, City of Grand RapidsModerated by Rebekah Kik\, City of Kalamazoo Corridor RedevelopmentCameron VanWyngarden\, Plainfield TownshipNicole Hofert\, City of WyomingModerated by Ryan Kilpatrick\, Flywheel Community Development Services 2:40 p.m. Transition + Networking Break 2:55 p.m. Breakout Sessions Affordability Won’t Be Solved by Subsidy AloneDave Levitt\, Third CoastBev Thiel\, Habitat for Humanity of Kent CountyModerated by Ryan Kilpatrick\, Flywheel Community Development Services Effective Response to HomelessnessThelma Ensink\, Degagé MinistriesAdrienne Goodstal\, North Kent ConnectTenisa Frye\, Family Promise of West Michigan 4:00 p.m. KeynoteCoby Lefkowitz\, author of “Building Optimism: What a World that Looks Better\, Works Better\, and Feels Better Could Look Like”  5:00 p.m. Happy Hour 6:00 p.m. Adjourn \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Meet our speakers \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Coby Lefkowitz \n \n \n \n Co-Founder & Principal \n \n \n \n Backyard \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Coby Lefkowitz\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ryan Kilpatrick \n \n \n \n Founder + CEO \n \n \n \n Flywheel Community Development Services \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Ryan Kilpatrick\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Sam Cummings \n \n \n \n Managing Partner \n \n \n \n CWD Real Estate Investment \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Sam Cummings\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Event Sponsors \n \n \n \n \n Premier Sponsor \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Housing Champions URL:https://grandrapids.org/event/first-friday-update-12-4/ LOCATION:Zoom Webinar CATEGORIES:Advocacy & Government Affairs,Complimentary Events ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://grandrapids.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/GRC_FFU-December-scaled.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20261207T073000 DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20261207T090000 DTSTAMP:20260410T114801 CREATED:20251203T195140Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260323T143013Z UID:10000385-1796628600-1796634000@grandrapids.org SUMMARY:Breakfast With Legislators DESCRIPTION:Registration & Pricing\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Join housing leaders\, stakeholders\, and community members from across the region at the West Michigan Housing Summit for a dynamic\, solutions-focused conference centered on innovative strategies for addressing housing challenges. This summit brings together cross-sector voices committed to moving beyond conversation and toward coordinated action on the region’s most pressing housing challenges. \n \n \n \n WHAT TO EXPECT \n \n \n \n A dynamic opening session from Sam Cummings and Ryan Kilpatrick\, reflecting on where we’ve been\, where we are now\, and where we’re headed together as a region. Six targeted breakout sessions addressing critical housing issues\, including: A legislative panel featuring leaders in housing reforms.Strategies for effective public engagement around housing and growthCorridor development and place-based investment to drive vibrancyPathways and tools for emerging developersThe limitations of subsidy-only approaches to housing affordabilityEffective\, coordinated responses to homelessness \n \n \n \n Closing with Energy \n \n \n \n Coby Lefkowitz will tie together insights from the day and challenge attendees to think boldly optimistic about the future of housing through coordinated\, cross-sector solutions. Coby is the author of Building Optimism: What a World that Looks Better\, Works Better\, and Feels Better Could Look Like where he explores how we can create more beautiful and livable communities. \n \n \n \n \n \n Donor and sponsor support makes this convening possible and positions partners at the center of regional housing leadership. Sponsors gain visibility with key decision-makers\, align their brand with measurable community impact\, and help catalyze the ideas and collaborations that move housing solutions forward. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n WHO SHOULD ATTEND \n \n \n \n This summit is for leaders and changemakers committed to improving housing outcomes\, including: Housing practitioners and advocatesGovernment and public sector leadersDevelopers and real estate professionalsEmerging developers and entrepreneursNonprofit and community-based leadersPhilanthropic and funding partnersPolicy and civic engagement professionalsAnyone invested in housing affordability\, availability\, and stabilityIf you’re working to shape the future of housing in West Michigan\, this summit is for you. \n \n \n \n \n \n AGENDA12:30 p.m. Registration and Networking 1:00 p.m. Opening Remarks and IntroductionJennifer Radaz\, Housing NextRyan Kilpatrick\, Flywheel Community Development ServicesSam Cummings\, CWD Real Estate Investment 1:40 p.m. Transition + Networking Break 1:55 p.m. Breakout Sessions State Legislative PanelState Representatives Wooden\, Grant and AragonaModerated by Joshua Lunger\, Grand Rapids Chamber Public EngagementJason Wheeler\, Wheeler DevelopmentRyan Schmidt\, IndigoRowan Brady\, City of Grand RapidsModerated by Rebekah Kik\, City of Kalamazoo Corridor RedevelopmentCameron VanWyngarden\, Plainfield TownshipNicole Hofert\, City of WyomingModerated by Ryan Kilpatrick\, Flywheel Community Development Services 2:40 p.m. Transition + Networking Break 2:55 p.m. Breakout Sessions Affordability Won’t Be Solved by Subsidy AloneDave Levitt\, Third CoastBev Thiel\, Habitat for Humanity of Kent CountyModerated by Ryan Kilpatrick\, Flywheel Community Development Services Effective Response to HomelessnessThelma Ensink\, Degagé MinistriesAdrienne Goodstal\, North Kent ConnectTenisa Frye\, Family Promise of West Michigan 4:00 p.m. KeynoteCoby Lefkowitz\, author of “Building Optimism: What a World that Looks Better\, Works Better\, and Feels Better Could Look Like”  5:00 p.m. Happy Hour 6:00 p.m. Adjourn \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Meet our speakers \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Coby Lefkowitz \n \n \n \n Co-Founder & Principal \n \n \n \n Backyard \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Coby Lefkowitz\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ryan Kilpatrick \n \n \n \n Founder + CEO \n \n \n \n Flywheel Community Development Services \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Ryan Kilpatrick\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Sam Cummings \n \n \n \n Managing Partner \n \n \n \n CWD Real Estate Investment \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Sam Cummings\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Event Sponsors \n \n \n \n \n Premier Sponsor \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Housing Champions URL:https://grandrapids.org/event/breakfast-with-legislators-12-7/ LOCATION:Grand Rapids Chamber\, 250 Monroe Ave\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, 49503\, United States CATEGORIES:Advocacy & Government Affairs ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://grandrapids.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/GRC_BWL-December-2026-scaled.jpg END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR