Testimonials

Building the Community Through Partnerships

"Cornerstone Alliance does an excellent job of continuously being a sound financial organization. They always strive to be very lean and responsible stewards of the dollars invested in the organization. Oftentimes, donations are leveraged many times over resulting in significant improvements being made to the community."
-Dave Schaffer, Shaffer & Layher, PLC

"We have moved many times in the past and know the chaos surrounding the process, but First Choice made our move here the easiest and most comfortable move yet. We felt like we had already lived here before we ever moved. We love the area and are grateful to you for making sure that we know all that Southwest Michigan has to offer!"
-Kym Harshaw, Legal Counsel, American Electric Power, Cook Nuclear Plant and Family

"The First Choice program is a real gem! The program really helped us feel connected to this community. What a great resource!"
-Rick Martin, Sr. Change Management Consultant, Whirlpool Corporation

"It is great to have Cornerstone Alliance here in Benton Harbor. Most people are not aware of what is necessary to get a business started, or to qualify for funding. Small Business Services can help them understand marketing, cash flow, and collateral. Cornerstone Alliance is here to help those willing to help themselves."
-Dillon Barnes, Owner, Loyalty Construction, SBS Client and SBA Microloan recipient.

"Cornerstone Alliance has offered me business services, and has helped me grow my business in a very positive way. The services offered are outstanding. I have been blessed with financial funding, business strategies, marketing, and classes for business development. They understand the small business owner's desire for success. Cornerstone is a dream come true for those who seek and are willing to take the time in something they believe in."
-Cheryl Wood, Owner, Oakwood Day Spa, Microloan and Client

"Deciding to go into business for myself was an easy decision to make. Deciding what business to go into is a much more complicated and scary decision. I was reluctant to attend a seminar on franchising that was sponsored by Cornerstone Alliance's Small Business Services. As it turned out I was very glad that I did. That course along with the support I received from Small Business Services has led my company to where it is today."
-Steve Murray, Express Personnel Professionals

"Seven years ago when we set out to bring a 1/2 Ironman Triathlon to this area, we thought that Jean Klock Park would be a perfect venue. In order to get the ball rolling, we had to get major sponsors to buy into the idea. In thinking about where to start, Cornerstone Alliance came to mind. They were able to guide us to the people who could help us start the triathlon. Today, the Whirlpool Steelhead Triathlon is one of the 3 largest 1/2 Ironman races in the world. Without the help of Cornerstone Alliance, this would have been much more difficult to start. On top of that, Cornerstone has helped with volunteers for the races over the years."
-Mike Ryan, Co-Race Director, Whirlpool Steelhead Triathlon

"If not for the outstanding recruiting efforts of Cornerstone, Great Lakes Home Furnishings wouldn't have even considered establishing a presence in the St. Joseph-Benton Harbor marketplace, let alone purchasing one of the most historic buildings in the central business district and turning it into a nationally award winning retail center. Cornerstone was absolutely pivotal in our decision."
- Ken Machiela, Owner of Great Lakes Home Furnishings of Holland and St. Joseph.

"Cornerstone Chamber of Commerce provided a lightning fast response to an issue that we had at our plant in Benton Harbor. We had struggled for quite a while to obtain permission to erect a gate across an abandoned street. I saw a staff member at lunch and expressed my frustration. I barely got back to my desk when I had a voicemail that I could move forward with the gate. That's quality customer service!"
- Phillip Schingel, Siemans-Sumitec of Benton Harbor.

The Chief Elected Officials Council convenes the first Friday of every month under the auspices of Cornerstone Alliance and Chamber of Commerce. It is a remarkable opportunity to share best practices, to share needs and concerns, to learn about legislation that might impact each community, and to break bread with one another. It is a valuable tool to help keep all of us on the same page regarding key issues in the community, as well as in Lansing and Washington DC. With an average attendance of more than 90% ...you can see why we place a high value on the CEO Council every month!
- Municipal leaders from St. Joseph, Benton Harbor, St. Joseph Charter Township, Benton Charter Township, Lincoln Charter Township, Royalton Township, Village of Stevensville, City of Bridgman, Baroda Township, Village of Baroda, and Lake Township.

"The physical and aesthetic improvements made in the Arts District have caused us to see our location in an entirely new light - we are more committed than ever to improving our property and promoting the neighborhood as a highly desirable place to work, live and play. The potential of the Arts District has been revealed - there is no doubt in my mind that the street project has stimulated interest and economic activity in the Arts District - and will continue to do so in the years ahead. "
-Ken Ankli, Brammall Supply Company