Kathy Craig of New Heights CCDA Receives Margaret B. Upton Volunteer Leadership Award

Kathy Craig, a leader in New Heights CCDA’s Community Food Network, received the Margaret B. Upton Volunteer Leadership Award at United Way of Southwest Michigan’s Annual Celebration on April 23, 2026. The award recognizes a lifetime of community service in Berrien County.

At New Heights, Kathy has helped bring neighbors and organizations together around a shared response to chronic food insecurity. The Community Food Network provides consistent access to healthy food while creating space for members to build relationships, support one another, and connect with other community resources. It is a cooperative effort, shaped by the contributions of members, volunteers, and partners.

Kathy has also contributed her communications skills to New Heights, helping people learn about the organization’s programs and opportunities to get involved. Her service extends across Southwest Michigan. Over the years, she has volunteered with Habitat for Humanity, the Boys & Girls Club, and Southwest Michigan Community Action Agency, and she helped launch the Emerge Innovation Hub.

The Margaret B. Upton Volunteer Leadership Award recognizes the breadth and depth of that commitment. As The Herald-Palladium reported, past recipients select each year’s honoree.

We are grateful to see Kathy’s service recognized. Her work reflects something we see every day at New Heights: lasting change grows when people bring their skills, care, and commitment together. Please join us in congratulating Kathy on this honor.