Helping Hearts of EJ Honored as Community Health Champion
East Jordan, MI – The Bellaire and East Jordan Family Health Centers proudly presented the 2025 Community Health Champion Award to Helping Hearts of EJ during a special event on Thursday, July 31, held just before the East Jordan Community Band concert at the bandshell in East Jordan’s downtown waterfront Memorial Park.
The Community Health Champion Award is given to recognize individuals or organizations that have demonstrated exceptional commitment to improving the health and well-being of their community. Helping Hearts of EJ is a locally based nonprofit dedicated to assisting individuals and families experiencing hardship. Through grassroots support, financial assistance, encouragement, and advocacy, Helping Hearts of EJ has become a trusted source of hope and relief for countless area residents.
Health Center CEO Dan McKinnon and Board Member Brian Olszewski presented the award on behalf of the Bellaire and East Jordan Family Health Center’s board of directors. Shandra Sweet, founder of Helping Hearts of EJ, accepted the award and spoke about the organization’s mission and the many ways community support continues to fuel its efforts, from supporting local cancer patients with gas cards to awarding scholarships and organizing environmental improvement projects.
“Helping Hearts is the kind of organization that brings people together in real and meaningful ways,” said McKinnon. “Their compassion, commitment, and impact align beautifully with our mission to support the health and wellness of our community. We are honored to recognize them.”
Board member Brian Olszewski echoed that sentiment, adding, “This was a perfect evening to celebrate a group whose heart is truly in the right place. They don’t just provide support—they lift people up when it’s needed most.”
Health Center staff, community members, and supporters gathered to applaud Helping Hearts of EJ’s contributions before enjoying a performance by the East Jordan Community Band. The event served as a meaningful reminder of the power of partnerships and the strength that comes from working together to serve others.
Helping Hearts of EJ’s next community fundraiser is the annual Jordan River Poker Run, a family-friendly event scheduled for Saturday, August 9 (rain date August 10). Proceeds from the event help fund vital community programs, including transportation assistance for cancer patients, educational scholarships, and other charitable initiatives.
To learn more or offer support, contact Helping Hearts of EJ at (231) 350-3154 or send donations to:
Helping Hearts of EJ
P.O. Box 72
East Jordan, MI 49727
Bylines: Members of the Helping Hearts of EJ were recognized by Dan McKinnon, CEO of East Jordan Family Health Center, and Brian Olszewski, Health Center Board Member.
