Blue Water Woman--Fall 2020

are largely undiscovered.
“We need to ask ourselves, ‘How can we look outside of the box and
look at the beauty of our community and build on our quality of life
and boost our economy at the same time?’”
Through her work for Trinity Health, a faith-based organization that
resonates with her deep Catholic faith, Helton has worked extensively
on advocacy of healthcare-related issues. She believes the Affordable
Care Act (ACA) is a good example of the way that once laws are
enacted, they can actually be growing and evolving entities.
“The Affordable Care Act was well thought out, but it needs to be
revamped,” she said. “There’s more that can be done to improve it.
“These things evolve when a policy is enacted. It’s not perfect, but it’s
incremental success. You never hit a home run out of the gate. Policy
making is a long term endeavor. People think, well, nothing gets done
in Washington or Lansing and that is just not true. It takes time.
“I’ve stood in Washington and in Lansing during the debate and
passage and failures of policy.”
Helton noted that she ran for office once, 36 years ago.
“I ran for secretary for student government at SC4 in 1984 and I
won,” she said. “That was my last victory.
“There are so many things on the line right now, I believe we need
someone in Lansing with proven policy-making experience and
successful relationships across the aisle. I think voters want someone
who is well-rounded and who can approach the work from a mature
standpoint.”
Making a reference to her opponent’s youth and lack of political and
life experience, Helton said: “Now is not the time to hand the keys to
the kids. It’s time for Mom to take the wheel. I’m that mom.”
“
Voters want someone who is well-rounded
and who can approach the work from a
mature standpoint.
Now is not the time to hand the keys
to the kids.
It’s time for Mom to take the wheel.
I’m that mom.
”
At Blue Water Developmental Housing,
Inc., we believe in empowering the people
we serve to follow their dreams
and live their very best lives.
We have successfully accomplished
that mission for more than 40 years,
thanks to the auspices
of a strong board of directors,
and leadership team, many of whom
are strong, empowered women.
The individuals we assist don’t just thrive ... they soar.
To learn more about volunteer or donor
opportunities, contact our office today
at (810) 388 - 1200 or visit our website
at www.bwdh.org.
Kathy Swantek
Executive Director
2016 Blue Water Woman
Nonprofit Executive
of the Year
Photo of individual we serve, Dacey Pritchett, in flight
Blue Water Developmental Housing, Inc.
1600 Gratiot Blvd., Suite 1 Marysville MI 48040
(810) 388-1200 www.bwdh.org
18 FALL 2020 BLUEWATERWOMAN.COM