BBB of WESTERN MICHIGAN, INC
NEWS RELEASE
News Release #20110601
Issued: 06-02-2011
Contact: Ken Vander Meeden
616-774-8236 or Email: bbbceo@iserv.net
www.bbb.org
REGIONAL BBB PRESIDENT
ANNOUNCES RETIREMENT
Ken Vander Meeden, President of the Better Business Bureau of Western Michigan since 1992 has informed the BBB’s Board of Directors of his intent to retire at years end. The regional BBB serves 38 counties and has grown substantially over the past 19 years under Vander Meeden’s leadership, while expanding BBB services and visibility within the USA BBB system.
Nick Hrnyak, Chairman of the BBB for 2011 stated: “Ken’s retirement is well earned as his local and national BBB involvement has helped in expanding the BBB’s profile from complaints and scams to charity services evaluations; fraud investigations; and numerous truth-in-advertising issues locally.
According to Hrnyak, a search committee has been formed to review applications from both regional and national candidates. The non-profit BBB was started locally in 1937 and will celebrate its 75h anniversary in 2012 when the national BBB organization celebrates in 100th anniversary.
Vander Meeden stated: “it has been my distinct pleasure for the past 19 years to serve within the BBB system. Having spoken in every one of the 38 counties has re-enforced the idea that west Michigan businesses and charities care about right and wrong; fair play; and integrity issues. I would estimate 98% of our companies and 98% of our consumers usually try to be trustworthy; it’s the 2% problem people who unfortunately gain the most attention. When the 2% call it seems like I have been here for all 75 years.”
For more information on the BBB’s award winning services and to see over 25,000 local BBB reports go to www.westernmichigan.bbb.org.