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Family Business Alliance

Its More Than Business. Its Family.

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Get to Know Your Ambassadors: Alex Boelkins

Family Business Alliance Ambassadors are volunteers for FBA who are committed to helping members get the most out of their membership. They are all individuals who have been very involved with the organization and have used resources and programs to help strengthen their businesses and families. Ambassadors are available as a resource to our members for any questions they may have from a member’s perspective. 

Alex Boelkins is one of FBA’s committed ambassadors serving the family business community on his own time. Get to know Alex with his answers to our questionnaire below.
How did you first get involved in FBA?

I read an MiBiz article about family business succession and learned about the Family Business Alliance and their presence in West Michigan. It sounded like an intriguing organization, so we reached out to learn more and became FBA members within a few weeks.

Why is FBA important to you?

The FBA provides a safe forum for discussing the unique challenges and opportunities within family businesses.

What has been your favorite FBA event or activity?

I had the opportunity to immediately join a new Peer Group, and it has exceeded my expectations. Meeting monthly with a group of NextGen peers has provided the sounding board and external feedback I’ve been looking for as a young leader in a family business.

Why do you think family businesses are important to West Michigan?

“Family businesses can be capitalism at its best”, and in West Michigan, there are a lot of examples being lived out on a daily basis. If we can build and steward long-lasting, privately held companies, we will continue to enjoy a strong business community that puts people first.

What are some of your favorite hobbies?

I’m a father to three young kids, so I work hard to get them outside as much as possible! Bike riding, canoeing, and camping are all family favorites.

 

Get to Know Your Membership Engagement Manager: Mary Cline

Why do you think family businesses are important to West Michigan?

Family businesses are the backbone of a vibrant community. Business families are deeply rooted in their communities. This connection facilitates close and long-term relationships all while making a positive impact within their community. Additionally, the family values tend to translate throughout their employees and into the greater community.

Tell us a little about your career/background before FBA.

I am a graduate of Hope College. I started my career working in advertising and marketing and worked in both Chicago and Denver. I took time away from the work force when my 3 sons were born. As they started school, I began to explore my yoga practice and pursued my 200-hour teacher training and then my 500- hour teacher training. I taught at a yoga studio in Redmond, Washington. When I went back to work full-time, it was a yoga student who invited me to interview, and eventually hired me to be the events and communications manager for the not-for-profit where she has served as Executive Director. I moved back to Michigan in 2016 and have worked in events and corporate relations for the Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation and Samaritas.

What do you enjoy most about living in West Michigan?

Some of my favorite memories are my summers spent in Northern Michigan.

What is your favorite (non-work related!) hobby?

I love to practice yoga, ski, both X-country and downhill, play tennis, sail, bike, water ski and float on a tube in a lake.

Tell us a little about your family.

I have 3 sons. Two are attending Purdue University. One is a senior and will move to Cary, NC upon graduation this spring for a job. The second is a freshman in First Year Engineering, he will enter into the Electrical Engineering major next year. My youngest son is a junior at East Grand Rapids HS. He plays Water Polo and swims. I have 2 cats that were feral and starving when I encountered them. I just felt the need to feed them and make them comfortable with human touch. They now rule the home.

Fun Facts about Mary:

  • Favorite GR Restaurant: San Chez
  • Favorite TV Show or Movie: Succession
  • Favorite Book: Pillars of the Earth

 

Get to Know Your Ambassadors: Mark Kimball

Family Business Alliance Ambassadors are volunteers for FBA who are committed to helping members get the most out of their membership. They are all individuals who have been very involved with the organization and have used resources and programs to help strengthen their businesses and families. Ambassadors are available as a resource to our members for any questions they may have from a member’s perspective. 

Mark Kimball is one of FBA’s committed ambassadors serving the family business community on his own time. Get to know Mark with his answers to our questionnaire below.
How did you first get involved in FBA?

I first got involved in 2019.

Why is FBA important to you?

It has been a lifelong goal to be an owner of a family business.

What has been your favorite FBA event or activity?

Being recognized as the Epic award winner for Family Business of the Year in 2022.

Why do you think family businesses are important to West Michigan?

Family businesses have deep roots in their communities, making close and long-term relationships with all stakeholders possible and important.  Eastern Floral was founded over 70 years ago by Frank & Esther DeVos who had a deep commitment to the West Michigan community and that tradition continues with our family. We are committed to our amazing staff, to our new and returning customers, and we are committed to partnering with and supporting other businesses and organizations that also make a difference in our community.

What are some of your favorite hobbies?

Golf.

Some fun facts about Mark:

Favorite Ice Cream Flavor: Butter Pecan

Favorite GR Restaurant: Red Hot Inn when it was open!

Favorite TV Show or Movie: Yellowstone

 

Get to Know Your Ambassadors: Rachael Vender Heide

Family Business Alliance Ambassadors are volunteers for FBA who are committed to helping members get the most out of their membership. They are all individuals who have been very involved with the organization and have used resources and programs to help strengthen their businesses and families. Ambassadors are available as a resource to our members for any questions they may have from a member’s perspective. 

Rachael Vander Heide is one of FBA’s committed ambassadors serving the family business community on her own time. Get to know Rachael with her answers to our questionnaire below.
How did you first get involved in FBA?

For many years, I lived outside of Grand Rapids and sought out ways to feel more connected to the family business. I discovered that Eastern Floral was a part of the FBA and began watching sessions that were offered virtually. Since then, I have moved back to Grand Rapids and enjoy being more involved in many in-person sessions and events and am happy to have joined a Peer Group recently.

Why is FBA important to you?

The learning opportunities through the FBA sessions have been valuable and the personal connections created through its programming have been meaningful.

What has been your favorite FBA event or activity?

There are two events that stick out in my mind. The first was a virtual interview with Fred Keller of Cascade Engineering back in 2020.  The other was in person with Jane Grote Abell of Donato’s Pizza in 2022. I enjoyed both speakers as they shared insights into Father/Daughter leadership teams. Neither session was dedicated to that topic, but it was fun to hear from business leaders who are working together or have worked together, as father and daughter.

Why do you think family businesses are important to West Michigan?

Family businesses have deep roots in their communities, making close and long-term relationships with all stakeholders possible and important.  Eastern Floral was founded over 70 years ago by Frank & Esther DeVos who had a deep commitment to the West Michigan community and that tradition continues with our family. We are committed to our amazing staff, to our new and returning customers, and we are committed to partnering with and supporting other businesses and organizations that also make a difference in our community.

What are some of your favorite hobbies?

My husband and I have four kids and we enjoy their busy schedules of sports and school activities. As a family, we also enjoy traveling, time on the beautiful lakes of Michigan, and downhill skiing. I believe that I will enjoy sitting down…someday!

Some fun facts about Rachael:

Favorite Ice Cream Flavor: Moose Tracks

Favorite GR Restaurant: Gaslight Kitchen Asian Cuisine

Favorite TV Show or Movie: The Lord of the Rings Trilogy

Favorite book: The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks

 

Shop Local Family Businesses: West Michigan Holiday Gift Guide 2022

In West Michigan, we are fortunate to have a thriving culture of both locally owned businesses and family-owned businesses that contribute to the vibrancy of our region. Shopping locally helps keep more money right here in our community, strengthening our economy, and you can often find uniquely curated gifts within independently and family-owned business. There is no better time than the holiday season to think twice about where we’re spending our hard-earned dollars! Be sure to support local, family-owned businesses in West Michigan this season. Read on below for a list of ways to support some of FBA’s members – all of which have local, family ownership.
  • Baker Book House: Head to Baker Book House, a family-owned Christian bookstore for an ample selection of literature and curated gift items.
  • Baudville: For unique and customized gifts look no further than Baudville. The family-owned business has plenty of personalized gift boxes and customizable products for everyone on your list. Need gifts for employees? Baudville specializes in employee recognition gifting opportunities.
  • Big O’ Smokehouse: Stop in at Big O’Smokehouse market in Caledonia and pick up some of West Michigan’s best smoked fish products, spreads, jerky, and more! With 5 generations working in the seafood industry, their products will score big at your holiday parties and for the seafood lover.
  • Eastern Floral: From custom gift baskets, holiday plants and greens, to a curated gift shop, Eastern Floral can be a one-stop shop for gifts for others – and yourself! Consider one of their floral subscriptions or floral design classes for a unique gift.
  • Ferris Coffee & Nut: Ferris Coffee and Nut has ample gift options that are perfect for hostess gifts, employee gifts, and more. The 95-year-old family business has an assortment of holiday themed treats, gift boxes, and more that make for a delightful present.
  • Game Room Guys: Check out Game Room Guys’ selection of arcade games, pinball, air hockey, and more for the gamer on your list, or outfit your basement with a new game to keep Christmas night interesting!
  • Hometown Pharmacy: With over 36 West Michigan locations, Hometown Pharmacy is proud to offer excellent service with prescription maintenance, pharmacy services, and specialized gift departments. Plus, they offer free gift wrapping on purchases over $15!
  • Koorey Creations: Looking for a one-of-a-kind gift? Consider Koorey Creations’ custom jewelry services. They also offer several artfully crafted jewelry collections with ready-to-wear pieces.
  • Ludema’s Floral: For over 100 years, Ludema’s has been serving West Michigan’s with their garden and floral offerings. Pick up some beautiful winter arrangements, poinsettias, or give a gift card for the green thumb in your life to shop bulbs or starter plants come Spring.
  • Meijer: No holiday dinner or stocking is complete without a trip to Meijer!
  • Schuler Books: Find a special book for everyone on your list at Schuler Books. Don’t miss their curated gift selection!
  • Shannon Cohen: From inspirational books, to empowering mugs, stationary, and apparel, Shannon Cohen products are sure to be a hit with your holiday gifting.
Check out the family-owned service providers below for additional ways to support local businesses this season!
  • Catered Creations: Hosting the holiday party? Get in touch with Catered Creations for all of your catering needs.
  • Curtis Cleaners: Skip the laundry and opt for dry cleaning services before and after your holiday parties with Curtis Cleaners. The family-owned business has locations throughout West Michigan.
  • Evergreen Sprinkling: Give yourself the gift of less stress this winter and opt for Evergreen Springling’s residential and commercial snow removal services. (North Holland Only)
  • Holland Litho: For beautiful stationery and great customer service, consider Holland Litho Printing Service for any of your holiday cards or other printed materials.
  • Wonderland Tire Company: Need new tires before the lake effect starts? Check out Wonderland Tire Company for all your tire needs and routine car maintenance services like oil changes and alignments.
  Did we miss an FBA business? Email us (fba@fbagr.org) to be added to this list!

Key Questions for West Michigan Family Businesses

1. What are our core family values and how do they impact our success?  Family values are defined as the underlying beliefs, principles, and ambitions of the family. A shared value system can unite family members and provide a framework for relationships with customers, employees, and the community. Values serve as a compass to help organizations navigate difficult decisions, drive practices and policies, and distinguish itself from non-family run organizations. How do you best understand and identify your family values? Look back at your family business history. Identify pivotal points in the organization and define the value characteristics that best define how your family responded. 2. How do we deal with inherent conflicts? All family businesses inevitably will experience conflict. Family run organizations operate in three spheres – ownership, business, and family. This is widely described as an intersecting three circle model, and the intersection of the three spheres is where you encounter common conflicts. Some issues that create the most tension include the direction of the business, roles and responsibilities of family members, and compensation. Having family business advisors, outside council, or more formal governance structures can help to navigate and minimize conflicts.  3. What governance systems do we have in place? Many family business organizations begin with a founder whose entrepreneurial vision launches and builds the business. They prefer an independent operating style and full control over decisions and direction of the organization. As the founder looks to engage the next generation and families begin to expand, there is the need for a more formalized governance structure. Governance structures assist in developing family relationships, support effective decision making, and strengthen accountability of all stakeholders. Board of Directors, Ownership Agreements, Family Meetings, Family Councils, Family Foundation and Family Office are some common examples of systems that are available as the family grows and ownership becomes more complex. 4. Do we have clear compensation and equity arrangements? Unsurprisingly compensation and equity are often the most contentious issues in a family business. What are the expectations of the family members (active and non-active)? What is fair? What is equitable? Family organizations should have well-defined job descriptions, compensation packages, and promotion criteria for both family and non-family members. Some organizations separate equity and profit structures to ensure that the distribution of profits to family members is documented and fairly distributed to avoid additional controversy. Equitable is not necessarily equal for many family run organizations.  5. What are the obstacles facing family businesses today? All businesses are currently challenged with talent and retention issues as well as implementing growth and innovation strategies. Family Businesses are also challenged with unique obstacles concentrating in areas of family leadership and ownership. In a recent survey of family businesses in West Michigan, leaders identified they are most concerned with properly preparing the next generation, adapting governance strategies, and implementing their family values. In terms of ownership challenges, they are looking for information and resources on shareholder responsibility, evaluating equity, and shareholder agreements.  6. Do we have a business succession plan? If you do not have a plan, you’re not alone. According to a recent study by PWC, only 34% of family run organizations have a robust, documented, and communicated plan in place. Succession plans should incorporate all aspects of a family business including ownership, governance, and leadership. Succession planning is a long journey and often includes defining when family members may work in the business, how profits should be distributed, who may serve on the board, preparing future leadership, and other matters such as taxes, liability, estate planning, ownership stakes, and voting rights. From planning to transition, succession implementation can be a seven-to-ten-year process.   7. How am I engaging the Next Generation? As they say, “All the flowers of all of the tomorrows are in the seeds of today.” Successful succession planning begins long before the next generation can determine their future career choices. Engagement for family run business should include education, communication, and collaboration. Formal and informal education should include sharing and documenting family history and family values. Whether at the kitchen table or a more formal family meeting – these are key opportunities to share information. Families should also explore digital communication vehicles (websites, social sites, or newsletters) to build and connect family members. Finally, creating collaborative opportunities around a project or charitable giving provides tangible experiences to build relationships, reinforce values and cultivate engagement.   8. Do I participate in the family business community and take advantage of resources? While every family business is different, many share the same operating challenges. Connecting with and learning from other family business organizations while developing a confidential and supportive peer network is a great way to tackle these dynamics. Sustaining a family business is a journey, but you don’t have to do it alone. Family Business Alliance seeks to help family organizations in West Michigan thrive by creating connections, navigating governance, and elevating leadership for over 165 member organizations. Learn more about how we want to help your family organization at fbagr.org.   

EPIC Awards: Family Owned Business of the Year

 

As part of our mission to advance family business, we are excited to announce a new collaboration with the Grand Rapids Business Chamber.

Since 2010, The Grand Rapids Chamber’s EPIC Awards have recognized the amazing organizations that are building this thriving community and supporting our region through EPIC (Entrepreneurial, Progressive, Innovative, and Collaborative) proportions. This year, Family Business Alliance teamed up with the Chamber to establish a category exclusively for family business organizations to engage and be honored for their efforts and innovation.

We are all aware that family run organizations positively impact our community and economy, so we are excited that an FBA member will have the opportunity to be recognized as the Family-Owned Business of the Year!

The award will be given to a family business that is either a Family Business Alliance Member or Grand Rapids Chamber member and exhibits the criteria below:

EPIC Organizational Awards Criteria:

  • Has a growth mindset and supports/demonstrates equitable entrepreneurship throughout the organization’s services and programs
  • Creates an organizational culture that is progressive – not afraid to put new ideas into practice and has an intentional focus on belonging and inclusion
  • Seeks out innovative opportunities to be creative in their designated industry and community by leveraging the organization’s diversity
  • Gives back to the larger community and is actively collaborative with other organizations and initiatives to create a thriving West Michigan for all

As an organization, you can either nominate yourself, or be nominated by anyone from outside of your organization. To nominate a deserving organization, complete the nomination form.  Nominations close on Thursday, August 4th. After all applications are reviewed by an independent Chamber Peer Selection Committee, finalists are notified. Award recipients are announced the night of the event, keeping finalists and attendees on the edge of their seats. 

We are thrilled to be able to formally acknowledge the positive impact that family businesses make in our community. Happy Nominating!

Timeline:

  • August 12th: Nominations Close
  • September 5th: 3 Finalists are chosen & contacted
  • October 4th: Finalist Reception
  • October 19th: EPIC Awards Gala

For more information, please visit the EPIC Awards page or email Aislinn Teachout, FBA Marketing & Events Coordinator, at aislinn@fbagr.org or Megan Steenwyk, Business Services Manager, at megan@grandrapids.org.

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