Slide 2 - Career Mentors Needed
Slide 2 - Career Mentors Needed

Corks & Forks Raises $365,000

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Scott Thiele, head of purchasing and supply chain for FCA – North America, addresses guests at the 12th annual Corks & Forks, February 29, 2020.


It was a perfect night – the wine was fantastic, the food was delicious, and our guests had a great time. Even better, we raised $365,000 in support of our students!

Click here to see photos from the 2020 Corks & Forks.

Our 12th annual Corks & Forks was held on Saturday, February 29 at The Townsend Hotel in Birmingham. The sold-out event featured samples from a unique and exclusive collection of wines and whiskeys, gourmet cuisine, and a live auction hosted by Les Gold from the TV hit series, Hardcore Pawn. The event was presented by Bosch, Faurecia Clarion, Harman, Sharp, and Yazaki, and chaired by Scott Thiele, head of purchasing and supply chain for FCA – North America.

“My first experience with Winning Futures was at Pontiac Academy for Excellence,” said Scott. “My wife and I observed one of the sessions. The energy between the students and mentors was incredible and the curriculum is exactly what is needed to prepare today’s students for tomorrow’s workforce.”

Jerry Porter is a Winning Futures alum from Cass Technical High School in Detroit and works at Belfor Restoration on the accounts payable team. Jerry attended the event and spoke about our program and how it helped him find success.

“No one in my family could teach me how to be successful. I was always a good student but had no vision to see where my grades could take me,” said Jerry.

Through our Workforce Prep program, Jerry was mentored by Ahmed Beasley, senior consultant – project management at Plante & Moran.

“Ahmed always told me I was meant for great things and that I could overcome anything with a plan. He encouraged me to use the Winning Futures principles of vision, goal, plan, commitment, and success. He helped me shape my vision into a reality.”

Next year’s Corks & Forks will be held on Saturday, February 27, 2021, at The Townsend Hotel in Birmingham. Mark your calendars now and contact Julie Rayes at Julie@WinningFutures.org or 586-698-4416 for sponsorship opportunities!