Photo courtesy of Gardner White
First 500 guests to receive free life jackets to promote summer water safety.
WHAT:
Gardner White, Huron-Clinton Metroparks and Macomb County Executive Mark Hackel are once again teaming up for the second annual Family Summer Kickoff Party on Wednesday, June 17, from 6-8 p.m. at Gardner White’s flagship store in Warren. The Metroparks and Gardner White will distribute free life jackets to the first 500 guests as part of an effort to help families enjoy Michigan’s lakes, pools and waterways more safely this summer.
The family-friendly event will include snacks and refreshments, kids’ activities, character meet-and-greets, and music and dancing with Ralph Thompkins, owner of SWAG Kids Gym. Guests are encouraged to register in advance here.
“We’re proud to continue our partnership with the Huron-Clinton Metroparks to help more families stay safe around the water this summer,” said Rachel Stewart, CEO of Gardner White. “There’s nothing better than a Michigan summer, and we’re excited to provide free life jackets while bringing the community together for a fun, family-friendly event.”
“Every family should have access to the resources they need to stay safe in and around water,” said Amy McMillan, CEO of the Huron-Clinton Metroparks. “We are excited to partner with Gardner White once again this year to provide free life jackets to families in Southeast Michigan, removing barriers and making it easier for more people to safely enjoy Michigan’s lakes, rivers and pools all summer long.”
“We are grateful to once again participate in this event with Gardner White and the Huron-Clinton Metroparks to help make water safety a priority for families across our community,” said Macomb County Executive Mark Hackel. “As summer begins and more families head to the water for fun and recreation, it is important that everyone has access to the resources and information needed to stay safe. This event is a great reminder that simple precautions like wearing life jackets can save lives and help ensure a fun, safe summer for all.”
WHO:
Rachel Stewart, CEO, Gardner White
Amy McMillan, CEO, Huron-Clinton Metroparks
Mark Hackel, County Executive, Macomb County
WHEN:
Wednesday, June 17, 2026
6-8 p.m.
WHERE:
Gardner White, 6500 E. 14 Mile Rd., Warren, MI 48092
About Gardner White
Family-owned and operated for 114 years across four generations, Gardner White is Michigan’s #1 furniture and mattress retailer with 32 stores serving Michigan and beyond and parent company to GW HOME. Headquartered in Warren, Michigan, Gardner White is rooted in providing customers quality products, great value and innovative services, and is deeply dedicated to the communities they serve. Gardner White is the presenting sponsor of America’s Thanksgiving Parade and was recently named Top 100 Retailer in the United States, and Best Places to Work by Furniture Today and Crain’s Detroit Business. For more information, visit www.gardner-white.com and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest, YouTube and X.