Hopeful in a Time of Change and Uncertainty
by Jim Vella
As we wind down 2024, I believe it’s important to not only reflect on the year gone by, but also to look forward with renewed hope for the year ahead.
For The Vella Group, 2024 was a year of impact and change.
We helped our nonprofit partners move their missions forward and make a positive impact on the communities they serve. Among the highlights was our support for the Pope Francis Center (PFC) as they opened their $40 million Bridge Housing Campus to serve Detroit’s homeless. It’s a dream come true – one that didn’t happen overnight. As I reflect on PFC’s success, I’m reminded it was a five-year journey – one that will change people’s lives and was well worth the time and energy.
There’s an important lesson here. All too often, nonprofit organizations seek short-term answers to long-term problems. While it’s important to focus on both the short- and long-term, you can’t sacrifice one for the other. Remember, sustainable success takes time and careful planning, especially in the face of growing challenges.
No doubt, 2025 will usher in change and uncertainty at a time when there is a growing need to help the disadvantaged in our community. A new administration in Washington, a new legislature here in Michigan and the global challenges that impact our economy will all need to be factored into strategic planning.
Not only will corporate philanthropy be impacted, but foundations will be forced to face ever-rising demand for resources.
In the midst of these challenges, The Vella Group will continue as we always do – focused on driving impact and building lasting partnerships and relationships that make a difference.
When I started this endeavor five years ago, after leaving the Ford Motor Company Fund (now Ford Philanthropy), my main goal was to make the world a better place. It’s a lofty goal, but every day, we strive to do just that by making people’s lives better through our partners.
As we look to 2025 and beyond, our commitment to make a difference will never waver. As one example, we’re excited to partner with Friends of Returning Citizens (FORC) in Detroit as they begin their nonprofit journey offering services and support to formerly incarcerated individuals.
My good friend, Fr. Tim McCabe, has taught me some valuable lessons. The most important is “when we work together, miracles happen.” I’ve been lucky enough to see some of those miracles, and I will continue to pray for more of them going forward.
Happy Holidays and Happy New Year from each of us at The Vella Group. We look forward to working with you in 2025, and may you and your families continue to be blessed each and every day.