Gentex Corp.’s commitment to community impact often plays out quietly in grants to local nonprofits, support for youth programs, and behind-the-scenes partnerships. But on Thursday nights each summer, that giving spirit becomes hard to miss in downtown Holland.
As the title sponsor of the
Street Performer Series, Gentex powers a weekly celebration that transforms the city’s main street into a stage for jugglers, musicians, dancers, and stilt-walkers.
The series draws thousands to 8th Street and culminates each season in the high-energy Gentex Block Party, a free, family-friendly event filled with games, giveaways, food, and music. This year’s event will be Aug. 14 from 6:30-8:30 p.m.
![]()
GentexEven last year’s rain couldn’t wash away the fun at the Gentex Block Party.
“Gentex really brings the party wherever they go,” says Kara de Alvare, marketing coordinator for Downtown Holland and the Holland Farmers Market. “They’ve helped take the Street Performer Series to the next level and made sure it stays free and welcoming for everyone.”
While the company is known nationally as a high-tech manufacturer and regional employer, in Holland, it has become synonymous with community connection.
“We just want people to know we appreciate them,” says Daniel Quintanilla, Gentex’s director of talent acquisition. “We’re part of this community, and we want to give back.”
Essential support
Launched in 2005, the Street Performer Series is one of Downtown Holland’s signature events, closing 8th Street to traffic each Thursday evening in the summer. The event pays performers and requires staff and logistical support, making corporate sponsorship essential.
Gentex started as a co-sponsor and, over the years, has stepped up its investment to become the title sponsor, allowing the event to grow even during challenging years.
“We couldn’t do it without them, and that’s really true,” de Alvare says.
Each week, Gentex brings interactive booths including games like Plinko and a prize wheel, plus an assortment of branded giveaways that are popular with kids and adults alike.
The summer wraps up with the Gentex Block Party, which has quickly become a tradition of its own. Held at the Holland Civic Center Place, the event draws more than 2,000 attendees for free entertainment, food, music, games, and community connection.
![]()
GentexThe 2025 Gentex Block Party will be held Aug. 14 from 6:30–8:30 p.m. at the Holland Civic Center Place.
Planning begins months in advance, with coordination from the city and strong support from partners like the Civic Center team.
“There’s a lot of work that goes into it, but once you see the smiles and the turnout, it’s all worth it,” Quintanilla says.
The party continues, rain or shine. Last year, a steady downpour didn’t stop the fun.
“It downpoured almost the whole time, and nobody left,” Quintanilla recalls. “People stood in line for food, games, prizes, even the dunk tank.”
Gentex provides more than just money. Many employees volunteer their time to help run the Block Party, including people from the human resources and leadership teams. Some even take turns in the dunk tank.
“A lot of them volunteer with no money involved. They just want to give back,” Quintanilla says. “When people are telling you, ‘Thank you,’ it’s the coolest feeling.”
The block party was Gentex’s idea, de Alvare notes, pitched initially as a car show. But as ideas grew, it became clear that a larger event was needed. The Civic Center lot provided the perfect setting.
“I was honestly worried no one would come that first year,” de Alvare says. “But the community showed up in a major way, and every year, it keeps growing.”
Job opportunities
While the block party is all about having fun, it also gives people a look at what Gentex does and what it stands for. The company sets up a booth where visitors can learn about job openings in technology and manufacturing, and how to apply.
“Even though hiring in manufacturing has slowed, we’re actively looking for tech roles, especially in software engineering and cybersecurity,” Quintanilla says. “It’s a tough job market out there, and we still do open interviews twice a week.”
That mix of fun and the opportunity to learn about jobs is what makes the event and Gentex’s support stand out, de Alvare says.
![]()
Steve Tamayo makes balloon animals for kids at the Block Party. (Downtown Holland)
“They’re not just a name on a billboard,” she says. “They’re people who care about this community, who show up, and who help make things happen.”
In addition to the Street Performer Series and block party, Gentex supports several other downtown events, including the annual Parade of Lights. Ottawa County’s largest employer also partners with groups like Holland Public Schools, the I AM Academy, Latin Americans United for Progress, and Out on the Lakeshore.
“They’ve really developed a reputation as a corporation that gives back in a big way,” de Alvare says. “And a lot of the time, it’s happening behind the scenes.”
That approach – strategic, consistent, and rooted in local relationships – continues to shape how the company engages with the community.
“We’re not doing this for recognition,” Quintanilla says. “It’s a thank you to the community. That’s the coolest part of being part of this team.”