AAACF Inspires Leaders to Grow in Washtenaw Co. at the A2Y Regional Chamber All In Workforce Development & Organizational Planning Program

ANN ARBOR, Mich. - EntSun -- The Ann Arbor Area Community Foundation (AAACF) served as the presenting sponsor for the Ann Arbor/Ypsilanti Regional Chamber's (A2Y) All-In Workforce Development & Organizational Planning Program featuring Mike McFall, the Co-Founder and CEO of Biggby Coffee, on January 29th, 2026, at the Kensington Hotel in Ann Arbor.

The AAACF works to enrich the lives of Washtenaw County community members by helping individuals, families, groups, and nonprofit organizations achieve their philanthropic goals. AAACF supports local non-profit organizations through grants and students through scholarships. Beyond financial support of the region, AAACF also supports events and learning opportunities that cultivate growth for leaders in the area. This particular event, featuring Mike McFall, encouraged participants on how to grow as leaders and build stronger companies/organizations, which in turn shapes local communities for the better.

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In his presentation, Mike shared advice on leadership, entrepreneurship, community growth, and economic vitality through the lens of his journey as the Co-Founder and CEO of Biggby Coffee. He took event attendees on a journey from the beginning to the current status of Biggy Coffee, sharing insights on how to lead your team by working with each team member's strengths. Mike emphasized the importance of creating a safe environment for your employees by highlighting how crucial it is to invest in your team and in allowing individuals to shine.

Reverend Dr. Shannon Polk, AAACF's President & CEO, stated, "Whether it's a book, a business, or a community idea, it all starts with planting the right seeds and taking the time to help them grow." Shannon's leadership has helped plant countless seeds of success throughout Washtenaw County and continues to deepen AAACF's roots for beneficial community impact.

Events such as these also provide an arena for organizations to commune, even if for a short time, which builds on existing relationships. One such connection that day was with Melvin Parson, creator of  "We The People Opportunity Farm", and Dr. Shannon Polk. AAACF has been and will continue to be a proud supporter of this organization, which empowers participants to rebuild their lives while giving back to their communities through farming.

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Rooted in partnership and collective growth, AAACF is proud to support Melvin and the We The People Opportunity Farm, as well as countless other grantees in the surrounding area who are planting their own "seeds" of success.

Mike McFall's book emphasizes building organizations that value people first, develop leaders with intention, and create impact beyond the bottom line - principles that closely align with AAACF's mission to strengthen Washtenaw County through inclusive growth and shared success.

This event, created by The Ann Arbor/Ypsilanti Regional Chamber, was a success and planted ideas in the minds of entrepreneurs and leaders across Washtenaw County, inspiring all who attended to continue to grow and strengthen the community.

About the Ann Arbor Area Community Foundation (AAACF):

The mission of Ann Arbor Area Community Foundation (AAACF) is to enrich the quality of life in Washtenaw County through its knowledgeable leadership, engaged grantmaking, and creative partnerships with donors to make philanthropic investments and build endowment. Interested in partnering with AAACF - learn more at aaacf.org.