THE POWER OF THE RIPPLE EFFECT
In our country, policy acts like a stone dropped into a pool of water. The ripples move through the economy and eventually settle into the daily lives of our citizens. When a policy ignores the social determinants of health, such as housing stability, food security, and environmental safety, it creates a cascading effect of chronic disease and long-term economic strain for everyone.
But there is a second ripple: yours. While a single voice or a single vote can feel like a small drop in a vast ocean, these individual actions are the foundation of a healthy democracy. When combined with others’ voices, those ripples intersect and amplify. They build into a sea change that can shift the very foundation of our healthcare system and improve outcomes for all.
A CRITICAL MOMENT IN TIME
The momentum from our last three Summits proves that when we gather, our region listens. The timing of this year’s event is vital. As we approach the 2026 elections, we have a unique window of opportunity to ensure that health equity remains a key part of the national conversation. Our goal is to equip every participant with the data and insights needed to be an informed advocate for a healthier community.
KEYNOTE SPEAKER
Rev. Horace L. Sheffield III is a nationally respected pastor, civil rights leader, community organizer and CEO of the Detroit Association of Black Organizations. For decades, he has connected advocacy with action, advancing healthcare access, housing stability, education, economic opportunity and community empowerment. A compelling voice on civic responsibility and public policy, Rev. Sheffield challenges individuals to become informed, engaged and active in shaping the decisions that affect their families and communities.
KEYNOTE SPEAKER
Dr. Lonnie Joe Jr. is a nationally respected physician, healthcare advocate and educator who has devoted his career to patient care and the concerns of the physician community. A graduate of Detroit Public Schools and the University of Michigan Medical School, he completed advanced training in internal medicine, pulmonary disease and the Johns Hopkins Business of Medicine Program.
Named Physician of the Year by the National Medical Association, Dr. Joe also hosts Primary Care, an educational program addressing health conditions that disproportionately affect African Americans and vulnerable populations. At the GRAAHI Summit, he will bring a powerful perspective on patient advocacy, informed communities and the leadership needed to advance health equity.
Healthcare Panel
Moderated by Tasha Blackmon, President and CEO of Cherry Health, this timely conversation brings together Dr. Matt Biersack, Dr. Lonnie Joe, Kaley Peterson, and Megan Erskine, MPH, for a candid examination of the challenges and opportunities facing healthcare today. These executive leaders will explore how health systems can strengthen access, rebuild trust, address the human and economic consequences of disparities, and turn commitments to health equity into measurable community impact.
Our Hosts
Guiding this important day will be Dr. Lisa Lowery and Jonathan Fuller, two dynamic professionals dedicated to health and community service.
Outspoken, engaged and deeply committed to their communities, they will bring energy, purpose and authenticity to the Summit experience. Together, they will help keep the day’s conversations focused, relevant and moving toward action, ensuring this pivotal gathering is as engaging as it is consequential.
$125
Per Person, Includes Breakfast, Lunch, Summit Program Materials & Resources, Vendor Fair
Monday, October 5, 2026
8 AM to 2:30 PM
COREWELL HEALTHPLACE
100 Corewell Drive NW, Grand Rapids
Why Attend?
The 2026 GRAAHI Health Transformational Summit comes at a critical moment, just weeks before the November election. This year’s theme, The Power of the Ripple Effect, explores how policy decisions move through healthcare, housing, food security, education, employment, and family well-being.
The Summit is a space for community leaders, healthcare professionals, policymakers, advocates, business leaders, educators, and residents to come together, share insight, and build strong coalitions for health equity.
Attendees will:
- Gain data-driven insights on the human and economic impact of health disparities
- Better understand how policy decisions affect families, communities, and systems of care
- Learn practical tools for nonpartisan advocacy and civic engagement
- Connect with partners committed to improving outcomes across West Michigan
- Identify opportunities for collective action before and beyond the November election
Join us for a powerful day of learning, connection, and action.
Sponsor
Become a champion for health equity and make a powerful statement. Your sponsorship provides unparalleled opportunities for high-level visibility and partnership with GRAAHI.
Vendor
Showcase your organization, products, and services to a targeted audience of health and community professionals. Secure a vendor table and build vital connections with attendees.
Advertise
The 2026 Health Equity Summit Program Book is an essential workbook and lasting resource for attendees. It’s the perfect place to showcase your commitment to health equity.
Our 2026 Partners
PLATINUM
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