Welcome

Letter From the President

22 years ago, the founders of West Shore AWARE had a vision to work cohesively to give back to the wonderful community in an impactful way. Those founders had an idea to host an event focused on respect, dignity, and pride which culminated in our first fundraising event in 2003.  That event has evolved into our annual gala, which is held on the third Saturday of August.  In 2023 we celebrated our 20th year anniversary with an amazing event at the Ivy House in Saugatuck.  The success of that event along with other fundraising efforts such as Drag Queen Bingo, allowed us to give over $90,000 back to our community last year. We truly appreciate the supporters and members of West Shore AWARE who have continued to support our student scholars, as well as our non-profits through the years.  Since our inception in 2002, you have helped raise and allowed us to award over $1,200,000 for individual scholastic scholarships and 501(c)3 locale charitable organizations.

This year we will be hosting our event, West Shore Derby Downs, on August 17, 2024 at the Johnson Farms Wedding and Events center in Fennville.  We hope to see all of our wonderful supporters and members at that event this year as well as at other WSA events including Drag Queen Bingo (link to Dunes events page) and our summer Meet and Greets, both of which are held at the Dunes Resort in Douglas.  We also are proud to participate in the Douglas and Holland Pride Festivals so please stop and say hello and learn more about what we do and how you can get involved.

On behalf of the board of directors, I want to extend my sincere gratitude to our members, sponsors, supporters, donors, and local businesses for your ongoing support and commitment to our mission.  I look forward to meeting and learning more about you all at our events and around the community.  Please send any questions or feedback to info@westshoreaware.org.

Sincerely,

Ian Mills
President, West Shore Aware

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