Kent County, Mich. (June 7, 2022) – The Kent County Welcome Plan Steering Committee has hired Hollin De La Cruz as welcome plan coordinator. She will start the new position on June 13.
The Kent County Welcome Plan Steering Committee - comprised of representatives from Kent County, City of Grand Rapids, Grand Rapids Area Chamber of Commerce, Samaritas, and the West Michigan Hispanic Chamber of Commerce – is focused on helping Kent County to be more welcoming to immigrants and refugees.
“New Americans have contributed to the cultural vibrancy and economic prosperity of our community for years,” said Kent County Chief Inclusion Officer Teresa Branson. “We are excited for Hollin to join the team and help us shape a more supportive and successful community for all of us.”
In 2020, the Steering Committee released a Welcome Plan which addressed barriers in immigration integration in the areas of civic engagement, economic development, safe and connected communities, education, and equitable access to services. In her new role, De La Cruz will work with community stakeholders to implement the plan’s recommendations and strategies under the direction of the Steering Committee.
“I am excited to work with the Steering Committee and our community partners to bring the Welcome Plan to fruition,” said Hollin De La Cruz. “We are committed to ensuring our region is welcoming and inclusive for all and bringing meaningful change to New Americans.”
Most recently, De La Cruz served as a program navigator for the IELCE grant for Kent ISD Adult Education. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in French from Grand Valley State University and a Liberal Arts Associates from Grand Rapids Community College. Additionally, De La Cruz is highly proficient in Spanish and French.
Residents are encouraged to visit the Kent County Welcome Plan website or follow its Facebook page to learn more about the Welcome Plan’s goals and objectives to foster a sense of belonging in Kent County.
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