Meet Our Team
Water safety is not just a personal issue—it’s a public health and community safety issue. Drownings and water-related injuries devastate families and erode trust in our beautiful recreational spaces. Our leadership is driven by a shared commitment to prevention, reducing preventable tragedies, and promoting healthy, safe activity.
Our Founder
Joseph W. Curtis
Chief Executive Officer & Founder
Joseph W. Curtis brings nearly two decades of executive non-profit leadership and development expertise to the organization. Throughout his career—spanning impactful initiatives from West Michigan to Phoenix—Joseph has specialized in strategic fund development, board governance, and building high-impact community programs from the ground up. As a champion for diversity and equity, he has dedicated his life's calling to bridging the gap between corporate leaders and underserved populations, launching critical initiatives for foster youth, refugees, and homeless communities. Joseph’s passion lies in empowering the next generation to overcome socio-economic barriers and build self-sufficient, thriving futures.
Board of Directors
Meet Our Dedicated Team
Our team at Necessary Change is comprised of devoted individuals who share a common goal: to uplift our community and support families in need. With diverse backgrounds and expertise, we work together to implement effective programs and initiatives that bring about meaningful change.
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Looking Ahead: 3-5 Year Goals
The Future of Necessary Change; Building for Tomorrow
While our immediate work focuses on delivering critical water-safety education across West Michigan, our vision extends far into the future. Over the next 3 to 5 years, Necessary Change is committed to expanding our footprint, broadening our reach, and building lasting infrastructure that protects and empowers families for generations to come.
1
Provide 2,000+ swim lessons annually and open a dedicated aquatic training center.
2
Expand services into additional West Michigan counties (Ottawa, Muskegon, Allegan, Kent, Oceana).
3
Launch a mobile pool program to bring swim instruction directly to underserved communities.