Amplify GR Welcomes New Director of Economic Opportunities
Local nonprofit hires director to help enhance entrepreneurial opportunities in Southeast Grand Rapids
GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (Feb. 10, 2020) – Amplify GR, a local nonprofit committed to widening pathways for residents and businesses on the Southeast side of Grand Rapids, welcomes Danielle M. Williams to its team as Director of Economic Opportunities. Williams brings with her a breadth of experience in partnership development and community engagement – two skillsets that will be instrumental in her new role.
“With the addition of Danielle to our team, Amplify GR is poised to continue connecting entrepreneurs with the resources needed to build their businesses,” said Jon Ippel, executive director for Amplify GR. “Danielle’s expertise will be an asset in strengthening economic pathways for neighbors, as she has been an integral player in large corporate teams, nonprofit structures and local municipal work. Her experience working in these environments is valuable to our partnerships with businesses and community entrepreneurs.”
As Director of Economic Opportunities, Williams will identify and help activate business ownership and employment opportunities for neighbors. Williams will work with employers to ensure their business practices align with the organization’s employment goals including:
- Employing neighborhood talent
- $15 per hour wage with benefits
- Career advancement opportunities
- Felon-friendly hiring
Williams, an entrepreneur herself, most recently served as principal at DMWilliams Consulting LLC, a change-management and communication firm she launched in 2017. She brings expertise in global business-to-business communication, as well as more than 20 years in the philanthropic and not-for-profit landscape.
“Amplify understands that wealth building and access to quality jobs is essential to a community’s financial stability,” said Williams. “Having grown up in this community, I am excited to leverage the many assets and programs available in Grand Rapids to spur an economic resurgence on the Southeast side.”
About Amplify GR
Amplify GR seeks to widen pathways so that more residents can participate and benefit from neighborhood growth in the Boston Square, Cottage Grove and surrounding areas. Through partnerships with residents, businesses, community organizations and funders, Amplify GR works in four areas of impact: jobs and entrepreneurship, housing, education and community wellbeing.