Amigos de SER 2025 – SER Metro-Detroit

2025 Amigos de SER

Business Recognition Luncheon

A Celebration of Partnership Progress & Community

What is Amigos de SER?

Amigos de SER is the annual Business Recognition Luncheon hosted by SER Metro-Detroit. It brings together corporate, community, and civic partners to:

Recognize and honor organizations and individuals who invest in SER’s mission
Celebrating the accomplishments of SER graduates and program participants
Raise awareness and funding to support SER’s workforce development, education, and training programs
Strengthening relationships between employers, funders, community leaders, and SER

Because of events like this, SER can continue to deliver critical services that support local residents, build careers, and drive economic opportunities in Metro Detroit.

What does “SER” stand for?

SER is both an acronym and a play on the Spanish verb:

Service

Employment

Redevelopment

And in Spanish, “ser” means “to be.”

We are committed to providing “SERvice, Employment, and Redevelopment” while recognizing the importance of every individual need “to be” (ser) successful in the pursuit of employment and education opportunities.

Why Attend / Become an Amigo?

Visibility & Recognition
As a sponsor or attendee, your organization is publicly aligned with community impact and workforce development. In 2024, sponsorship tiers ranged from “Amigo” levels up to major corporate support.
Networking & Relationships
Connect with peers in business, philanthropy, government, and community sectors who share a vested interest in Detroit’s growth.
Support Critical Programs
The funds raised help programs such as:

- Alternative high school + trades/technical training
- Apprenticeship readiness
- Financial literacy and job placement support
- Youth re-engagement services

Hear & Amplify Success Stories
Through keynote speakers and award presentations (e.g. “Journey to Success” awards), the event shines a light on graduates whose lives have been transformed through SER services.

Quotes

“Attending the Amigos de SER Metro Luncheon reaffirmed my belief in the strength of our community and the importance of giving back. It was inspiring to hear students share how SER Metro has empowered them to pursue their goals with confidence.”-

“Yesterday’s Amigos de SER Luncheon beautifully reflected the diversity of the people SER proudly serves. Hearing the inspiring testimonies of two SER graduates reminded us how SER provides the tools and support to change the trajectory of someone’s life — and in doing so, the future of their family. After 65 years, SER continues to transform lives and strengthen our communities.”

“SER Metro has been a dedicated pillar of Southeast Michigan. Their work empowering young people, workers, and families through education, training, and opportunity is transformational in our communities, and this luncheon was a celebration of what they have built and the lives they continue to change," said Senator Mary Cavanagh, Chair of the Legislative Latino Caucus, "That’s why I fought to secure an investment in this year’s state budget to strengthen their mission, ensure their programs continue to grow, and enable them to make needed improvements to their Samaritan Center. I am proud to stand alongside SER Metro as they build on this success, and I look forward to supporting their work for years to come."-

“Attending the Amigos de SER Business Recognition Luncheon was inspiring. The event highlighted the incredible work SER is doing to connect people with technical training and career opportunities. From workforce development to strengthening local businesses, it’s clear they are making a real difference.”

“Congratulations on a successful Amigos de SER luncheon! On behalf of The Leona Group and La Academia César Chávez, we celebrate your many successes and lasting impact. Our community is proud of all that you continue to accomplish in service to others. And to Manuela Maldonado-Zárate - congratulations on an incredible 50 years of service!

“It was an honor to be part of a wonderful celebration of an organization that works tirelessly to improve the lives if people. SER Metro has touched over a million people since they began, and the world is a better place because of them.”

“It was a great luncheon! Thank you for inviting me.”