Living and Learning Enrichment Center finalist for Chick-fil-A awards

The Living and Learning Enrichment Center (LLEC) today announced it has been selected as a finalist in the 2026 Chick-fil-A True Inspiration Awards, making it the only Michigan nonprofit selected to compete in the final voting round.

The True Inspiration Awards honor nonprofits across the country that are making a lasting impact in their communities. Winners receive grants ranging from $30,000 to $350,000 to expand their programs and services.

“This recognition from Chick-fil-A means so much to our organization,” said Rachelle Vartanian, founder and president, Living and Learning Enrichment Center.

“A grant of this size would be truly transformational, allowing us to take individuals and families off year-long waitlists caused by overwhelming demand, and giving us the ability to expand programs that address the staggering unemployment rates facing individuals with autism and related challenges. Every day, we see the incredible potential of our members when given the right training, opportunity, and encouragement.

Helping build ‘independent, meaningful lives’

“With this support, we can help even more individuals thrive and build independent, meaningful lives.”

Living and Learning was nominated by Chick-fil-A Northville Owner-Operators Phil and Amanda Whitsel for its vocational training and employment readiness programs, which equip individuals with autism and related challenges with skills for meaningful, independent lives.

“At Chick-fil-A, serving our community goes far beyond the food we provide,” said Phil and Amanda Whitsel.

“It’s about investing in people and building connections that make a lasting difference. We were honored to nominate Living and Learning for the True Inspiration Awards because their mission reflects those same values. Seeing their participants thrive, including those who have trained alongside our team, reminds us what it means to truly care for our neighbors.”

Kickoff event Sept. 5

To officially launch the voting campaign, Chick-fil-A Northville will host a kickoff event from 6 to 8 p.m. on Friday, September 5, at its restaurant located at 20135 Haggerty Road. A team from Living and Learning will be on-site to connect with guests, share information, and encourage voting.

Guests also will enjoy special food giveaways and other promotions for casting their vote for Living and Learning and supporting the campaign.

Public voting is open September 2 – September 30, 2025, through the Chick-fil-A App.

Here’s how to vote

Each Chick-fil-A One® member is allowed one vote per person.

 Download or open the Chick-fil-A App
 Sign in or create a free Chick-fil-A One® account
 Select “For You” at the bottom of the screen
 Click the True Inspiration Awards card
 Choose the Midwest Region and cast your vote for Living and Learning Enrichment
Center

For more information about Living and Learning Enrichment Center visit www.livingandlearningcenter.org.

For more information about the Chick-fil-A True Inspiration Awards, visit www.chick-fil-a.com/true-inspiration-awards.