Connecting
Dr. Tareva Watts is the modern-day therapist who works to meet people where they are. Not only is she a clinical social worker, but she is also a mother, a wife, an author, motivational speaker, and a voice for the marginalized. Dr. Tareva loves serving the Lord and spending time with her family. She found the Lord long ago and continues to serve in various ministries throughout the Kingdom. Dr. Tareva
Breaking Down the Ingham County Races: A Guide to November 2024 Candidates and Issues
As the November 2024 election approaches, it is crucial for voters in Ingham County to be informed about the candidates running for various offices. Local elections have a direct impact on our community, from school boards to county commissioners, and your vote will shape the future of our area. Below is a detailed overview of the key races, highlighting all the can-
didates running for each position.
County Commissioner Races
County Commissioners hold significant roles in local governance, as they are responsible for making decisions that directly affect the daily lives of residents within their county. Here are the key reasons why county commissioners are important:
1. Policy Making and Legislation
County commissioners serve as the legislative body for the county, enacting ordinances and resolutions that govern various aspects of life within the county. These policies can range from land use and zoning regulations to
Dr. Tareva Watts, LLMSW Shifting the Mental Health Narrative
holds a Doctorate degree in Biblical counseling and education where she utilizes spiritual and faith-based best practice in her therapeutic approach. She provides counseling and therapy to the community, while approaching mental wellness with strategies to equip clients with healthy coping mechanisms.
Inspired Faith is a Faith based prac-
Courtesy Photo-Dr. Tareva Watts Licensed clinical Social Worker
The Chronicle News
The Legacy of Dr. Mar tin Luther King Jr
Black History
Breaking the Silence: The Black Community’s Historical Fight Against Domestic Violence
Domestic violence affects individuals from all walks of life, but in Black communities, it has historically been compounded by systemic inequalities, cultural stigmas, and mistrust of traditional support systems. As we observe Domestic Violence Awareness Month, it’s essential
to recognize the unique challenges and courageous advocacy of Black survivors and activists who have paved the way for today’s support networks.
The Roots of Violence and Resilience
From the days of slavery, Black women and men have been subjected to violence both within and outside the home. Black women, in particular, endured horrific abuse during slavery, a reality often compounded by the loss of personal agency and protection. This history of enforced silence and suffering planted the seeds for generational trauma, with abuse manifesting in various forms across subsequent generations.
Yet, resilience has always been an
equally strong thread in the tapestry of Black history. Women like Harriet Jacobs, who escaped the physical and psychological chains of enslavement, exemplify this resilience. In her autobiography, Incidents in the Life of a Slave Girl, Jacobs not only detailed her experiences but laid bare the specific forms of abuse Black women faced, opening a door to an honest dialogue on these painful issues.
The Civil Rights Movement and the Intersection of Justice
The struggle for racial equality during the civil rights movement brought attention to many forms of violence against the Black community, but discussions of domestic violence often remained private, held back by cultural
norms and a fear of reinforcing negative stereotypes. Nonetheless, some figures emerged who linked civil rights with gender justice.
Activist Fannie Lou Hamer is a striking example. Her experiences of personal and institutional abuse fueled her advocacy for voting rights and human dignity, setting a precedent for the fight against all forms of violence, including domestic abuse. Though not all activists focused on domestic violence explicitly, the call for justice in every aspect of life set a foundation that would support future advocacy efforts.
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Hidden in Plain Sight: Domestic Violence and Resilience in Black Women's History
Domestic violence is a long-standing issue across communities, but Black women, in particular, have faced unique barriers in addressing it. Since the era of slavery, Black women in America have encountered intersecting forms of violence, from institutional oppression to intimate partner abuse. This article sheds light on the resilience and strength of Black women, whose histories are often entwined with survival in the face of systemic and personal trauma.
Historically, enslaved Black women were often subject to sexual abuse and exploitation, enduring violence in settings where they had no legal rights or protections. After emancipation, laws still failed to safeguard Black women from intimate partner violence, leaving them vulnerable within systems that of-
ten disregarded their humanity. This cycle continued well into the 20th century, with Black women facing institutional challenges that compounded the risks of domestic violence and made seeking justice an uphill battle.
Figures like Sojourner Truth and
Harriet Jacobs spoke out about the particular suffering Black women faced and highlighted their resilience. Truth, known for her fierce advocacy, not only fought for abolition but also emphasized the injustices and gender-based violence that Black women endured.
Fast-forward to the civil rights era, and the struggle was no different. Women like Fannie Lou Hamer, whose life was marked by courage, confronted abuse head-on, exposing injustices and demanding equal protection for Black women’s voices.
Today, the legacies of these women continue through organizations like the National Domestic Violence Hotline, which provides culturally specific resources for Black survivors, and organizations such as Black Women’s Blueprint and the Women of Color Network. Together, these groups highlight the continued need for resilience and advocacy in overcoming domestic violence. By acknowledging the impact of history on present struggles, we honor the legacy of strength that Black women have carried for generations.
Meet the Candidate: Dr. Terry Frazier for Lansing Community College Board of Trustees
Background and Motivation
Dr. Terry Frazier is a dedicated educator with a passion for lifelong learning and community service. He brings over 25 years of experience in higher education, holding degrees in Elementary Education, Higher Education, and a Ph.D. in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies. Having grown up in a family deeply committed to education—both parents were schoolteachers and administrators—Dr. Frazier developed a lifelong dedication to educational access and community development. Dr. Frazier’s motivation for running for the Lansing Community College (LCC) Board of Trustees stems from his belief that education is foundational to a thriving community. His goal is to contribute to LCC’s mission of providing accessible, quality education, inspired by his family and a desire to foster a supportive environment where everyone has the chance to succeed.
Unique Qualifications
With a robust career spanning six universities, multiple national leadership roles in higher education, and executive-level experience, Dr. Frazier has an in-depth understanding of both academic administration and communi-
ty involvement. His ongoing service on the LCC Board has given him valuable insights into the college’s operations, enabling him to build on the impactful work already underway. Additionally, his role as a local business owner and active community member provides him with a well-rounded perspective to support LCC’s mission effectively.
Vision for LCC
Dr. Frazier envisions Lansing Community College as a “cornerstone of opportunity and growth” for the local community. His goal is to increase LCC’s visibility, transforming it into a welcoming place where people from all walks of life can pursue academic and personal growth. By emphasizing LCC’s role in workforce development and community impact, he hopes to create a culture of lifelong learning and social responsibility.
Commitment to Affordability and Accessibility
Ensuring that education at LCC re-
mains affordable is one of Dr. Frazier’s top priorities. He plans to support initiatives such as grants, scholarships, and partnerships with businesses to reduce financial barriers for students. He is also committed to promoting Michigan’s Community College Guarantee program and other financial aid resources to keep LCC’s offerings accessible to all community members.
Addressing Key Issues
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MVAA hosts first Community Outreach and Regional Engagement (CORE) Symposium
More than 50 veteran advocates and support organizations from around the state gather to share best practices
EAST LANSING, Mich. – The Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency (MVAA) hosted their first Community Outreach and Regional Engagement (CORE) Symposium at the Kellogg Center on the campus of Michigan State University. The goal of this event is to bring together veteran advocates to establish and strengthen relationships and share what they are doing to impact the lives of veterans and their families in their communities. More than 50 attendees from across the state joined speakers, fellow support organizations and State of Michigan departments to better understand how other communities are supporting their local veterans.
of us can do the work of supporting veterans alone. It is vital that we collaborate and see what works in different communities to learn how we can best service veterans and their families. That includes finding the resource gaps around the state so that we at MVAA can work to fill those gaps."
"We are excited to bring this group of dedicated veteran advocates together for the first time," says Chelsea Rider, MVAA community analyst. "None
The MVAA's CORE initiative brings together a network of collaborative partners from across Michigan to deliver targeted, localized support so that every veteran and their family can get the personalized services and resources where they live. These partners are local agencies, businesses or nonprofits throughout Michigan that have the available resources and support systems in place to address the various needs of Michigan veterans locally. MVAA relies on these partners
Dr. Frazier sees financial aid limitations as one of the biggest challenges facing LCC. He plans to advocate for additional support through donations and economic partnerships to ease financial pressures on students. With the changes in state funding and FAFSA, Dr. Frazier intends to stay informed and proactive, ensuring that LCC can navigate these shifts responsibly and sustainably.
to better understand where veteran resource "deserts" exist that allows the agency the opportunity to address those gaps.
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The CORE leadership team is made up of individuals from the Michigan Association of County Veteran Counselors; regional Veteran Community Action Teams and Coalitions; American Legion; Veterans of Foreign Wars; Disabled American Veterans; Vietnam Veterans of America; regional veteran engagement officers; Buddy to Buddy coordinators; Michigan Veterans Trust Fund; Michigan Veteran Resource Service Center; Michigan Department of Health & Human Services and the Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency.
Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency Director Brian L. Love welcomes attendees to the first Community Outreach and Regional Engagement (CORE) Symposium, Wednesday, Sept. 18.
Courtesy Photo-Dr. Terry Frazier Candidate for Lansing Community College Board of Trustees
Why do some men commit domestic violence? Trauma and social isolation may play a role
BY LAURA VOITH Associate Professor of Applied Social Sciences, Case Western Reserve University
Support for survivors of domestic violence is important, but to end domestic violence once and for all, society needs to understand the people who perpetrate it and how to successfully intervene.
Domestic violence is very common in the United States. Nearly half of women and men in the U.S. experience sexual or physical violence, stalking or psychological harm or coercion in a romantic relationship during their lifetime.
Domestic violence is also experienced unevenly across the U.S population. Young people are most vulnerable, with nearly three-fourths of female victims reporting that their first experience of domestic violence occurred before age 25. People of color and LGBTQ+ people also experience considerably higher rates of domestic violence than the national average. And despite similar rates of domestic violence across men and women, women report more severe effects on their lives, including higher rates of injury and need for medical care, needing help from law enforcement and post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms.
I am a social worker who has spent the past 10 years studying how men come to use violence against their intimate partners, since the effect of their violence is often the most severe. My research has found that consistent supportive relationships with attentive adults in childhood and adulthood, along with stress management that takes trauma into account, are two
promising approaches to prevent domestic violence.
The roots of domestic violence
Understanding how someone comes to perpetrate violence is necessary to stop violence from happening in the first place.
Certain childhood experiences can put people at risk of committing domestic violence in the future. Researchers have found that child abuse, neglect and a negative parent-child relationship are significant risk factors that may lead someone to later perpetrate domestic violence.
Experiencing trauma in early childhood can alter the brain, how the body responds to stress and whether someone sees the world as a threatening, harmful and untrustworthy place. For example, research has shown that people who have been exposed to trauma have increased activity in the amygdala of the brain, resulting in heightened fear and arousal that can lead to aggressive responses in the face of conflict and stress. Trauma exposure is also linked to a decrease in activity in the prefrontal cortex – that’s the part of the brain responsible for impulse control, concentration and emotional reasoning. These are essential qualities to navigate interpersonal relationships.
Toxic stress – excessive or prolonged activation of the body’s stress response – happens when someone encounters constant threats to their physical or mental safety during sensitive developmental periods.
Domestic violence is experienced unevenly across the U.S. kieferpix/iStock via Getty Images Plus
MSU Women’s Basketball: How Do We Replace Last Year’s Seniors?
BY TOBIAS WEBB
Tory Ozment
Tory Ozment gave everything for the Spartans last season and may have been snubbed for the Big Ten Sixth Player Award, which went to the equally hard-working Theryn Hallock. Forced into playing heavy minutes at the 4 due to injuries, she transitioned well from guard to forward, providing the size we needed to compete in the Big Ten. While she wasn’t a starter, she split minutes with Jocelyn Tate at the 3 and filled in at the 4 whenever Ayrault got into foul trouble. It was a tough adjustment for a guard, especially defending centers in a physically demanding Big Ten, but Ozment’s defense kept us afloat when Ayrault faced foul issues. Despite her position change, her energy off the bench, often alongside Hallock, made our press more effective. A true Spartan, we were fortunate the 6th-
year senior didn’t test the transfer portal.
What We’re
Losing:
Ozment’s contributions go beyond her stats. While playing out of position, she averaged 9.6 points and 4.7 rebounds in 22 minutes off the bench, helping us stay competitive in conference play. Her defensive versatility allowed her to guard positions 3-5, disrupting opponents and facilitating more steals for our guards. Of-
fensively, she adapted as a stretch 4, shooting 34% from beyond the arc, and excelled at finishing tough layups against taller defenders. This year, Julia Ayrault is our only proven three-point shooting forward, hitting 35% from deep last season. To fill Ozment’s absence, we’ll likely run fewer guards, which should help with rebounding but may decrease our three-point effectiveness. Her minutes will be dis-
tributed among Ayrault, Tate, Vanslooten, and potentially Sotelo, Holley, or Shumate. This depth should prevent us from relying on a seven-player rotation, allowing fresher bodies on the court.
Where She’s Going:
Ozment’s move to Nashville brings her closer to her home state of Georgia. While coming off the bench behind Tate may have hindered her pro aspirations, we wish her the best in her post-MSU journey, and hope her Michigan State degree serves her well.
Moira Joiner
Moira “Mo” Joiner had a long and impactful Spartan career, spending five years in green and white, with only one season cut short by injury.
tice, where faith is the foundation to the healing process. Through her practice at Inspired Faith Counseling & Consultation, (IFCC) Dr. Tareva helps clients address issues and identify needs. It is a priority to ensure IFCC is a safe and judgement free space. In addition, Dr. Tareva’s customizes her approach for optimum results.
Dr. Tareva Watts is a native of Lan-
sing, Michigan. She is married to the love of her life of fourteen years. Together they have raised two beautiful children. Dr. Tareva prides herself on giving back to her community. Her background as a clinical social worker has helped to bridge the gap for those facing challenging dilemmas regarding mental health.
In December 2021, Dr. Tareva
teamed up with “The Dignified Aging Project” and Ingham County Treasurer Eric Schertzing, to answer a “call to action’ regarding Racism being declared a Health Crisis within Ingham. The Mental Health Awareness and Resource Fair was an informative, interactive event designed to bring awareness to Mental Wellness with a special focus on BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of
Color) communities when addressing Mental Health Care.
In 2021 Dr. Tareva wrote her very first book “Mind Over Matter” where she provides readers with insight and guidance and mindful strategies make progress despite the challenges of life. In addition, her social media platforms have allowed her to pour into community through the gift of affirmation.
public safety measures, environmental protections, and more. The decisions they make have long-term impacts on how communities within the county develop and function.
2.
Budget and Fiscal Management
One of the primary responsibilities of county commissioners is to oversee the county’s budget. They allocate funds to various county departments
and services, such as law enforcement, public health, transportation, and education. Effective fiscal management by the commissioners ensures that the county's resources are used efficiently and that essential services are adequately funded.
3. Infrastructure and Public Works County commissioners are often involved in decisions related to infra-
structure projects such as roads, bridges, and public buildings. They prioritize and approve funding for these projects, which are crucial for economic development, public safety, and overall quality of life. Their decisions on infrastructure can influence everything from traffic flow to the availability of public facilities.
4. Public Health and Safety Commissioners play a crucial role in
ensuring the health and safety of county residents. They oversee public health initiatives, manage emergency services, and work with local law enforcement to address crime and safety concerns. During public health crises, such as pandemics, they may implement or enforce health regulations to protect the community.
DR. TAREVA WATTS
Town Pizza & Grill
Reopens After Two-Year Hiatus with an Exciting New Menu
LANSING MICHIGAN – October 1st 2024–
Town Pizza & Grill is dedicated to providing delicious meals and exceptional service to our community. We are eager to elevate your dining experience with fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and a commitment to quality. Town Pizza & Grill is set to become the go-to destination for food lovers, offering a wide array of mouthwatering options.
Town Pizza & Grill is excited to announce its grand reopening after more than two years of anticipation! Under new ownership, foster son & foster father we are eager to welcome back our community with a revitalized menu filled with a variety of delicious, scratchmade offerings. At Town Pizza & Grill, we strive to create a welcoming environment for everyone, catering to various dietary preferences. Our range of offerings includes vegan, vegetarian, dairy-free, gluten-free, carnivorous, and halal options—ensuring that everyone can find something they love.
Located at 1040 South Pennsylvania Ave, Lansing Town Pizza & Grill will reintroduce itself with a diverse range of culinary delights. Our signature Stone-Fired pizzas, calzones, and cheesy breads, alongside a selection of flame-grilled burgers, scrumptious three-cheese cheesesteaks, hand-battered chicken sandwiches, savory wings, fresh seafood, and crisp salads. We are committed to quality, using fresh, never frozen, antibiotic-free meat, and locally sourced produce to create a menu that not only satisfies but also supports our local farmers.
In addition to our core menu, we are thrilled to offer A Cherry On Top Ice Cream, featuring a delectable range of flavor burst soft serve ice cream, gourmet sundaes, creamy milkshakes, and our Signature Ice Cream Nachos—a sweet twist that is sure to delight! Scan to read full story
Saunteel Jenkins Raises $120,000 In Less Than Two Months
DETROIT , MI - Saunteel Jenkins announced today that she raised nearly $120,000 in the two months since launching her exploratory committee for Mayor. Jenkins will report raising $119,910 for the quarter, easily outpacing the $77,210 that Mary Sheffield raised during her first quarter in the race, It is the highest quarterly total posted by any candidate thus far. Even more impressive, Jenkins’ fundraising success came during a period when many donors are squarely focused on the 2024 general election.
“I’m honored by the outpouring of support I’ve received from every corner of our community,” said Jenkins. “From THAW to City Hall to my work as a social worker and small businesswoman, I’ve spent my life working to create opportunities for Detroiters. I’m excited that so many people believe in me and my vision for a stronger and more prosperous Detroit for everyone.”
About Saunteel
Jenkins was born and raised in Detroit, the oldest daughter of a mailman and sales associate at Macys. She attended Detroit Public Schools, graduating from Cass Technical High School in 1988. Her early challenges fueled Saunteel’s commitment to social work - leading her to receive her bachelor and master’s degrees in social work from Wayne State University.
Following a successful tenure in city hall with Council President Maryann Mahaffey, Jenkins went to work for a com-
pany providing free tutoring to children in underperforming schools. Saunteel would go on to start her own small business and was later named Director of the Residential Treatment Program at Mariners Inn, a Detroit homeless shelter for men fighting addiction.
In 2009, Jenkins ran and won a seat on the Detroit City Council and three years later became the first person in nearly 100 years to be elected City Council President by her peers. She served during one of the darkest economic chapters in Detroit's history - helping the city navigate through its bankruptcy and putting it
on its ultimate path to recovery.
Jenkins has served as the CEO of The Heat and Warmth Fund (THAW) for the past decade, where she’s helped tens of thousands of Detroit families pay their heat, electric and water bills during tough financial times. A cancer survivor whose brother was the tragic victim of gun violence, Jenkins has been recognized for her perseverance, leadership, and willingness to take on any challenge - no matter how large.
Saunteel launched an exploratory committee for Detroit Mayor on August 27th. www.saunteeljenkins.com
Courtesy Photo-Saunteel Jenkins launches exploratory committee for Detroit Mayor
Michigan Nonprofit Recognizing CEO Chanell
Scott Contreras for Black Energy Awareness Month
Chanell Scott Contreras is a visionary, and the type of leader needed to expand access to affordable clean energy solutions and improve the quality of life for families throughout Michigan. Chanell’s experience coupled with her passion for sustainability and her skill at collaborating with diverse stakeholders makes her an excellent leader for Michigan Saves, the nation’s first nonprofit green bank.
In November 2023, Chanell became President and CEO of Michigan Saves. Under her leadership, the team serves Michigan residents and business owners by financing sustainable upgrades to homes and commercial buildings, financing over $500 million in clean energy projects statewide. Less than a year into her role, Chanell has secured substantial funding from the EPA’s Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund and spearheaded two major initiatives: relaunching the Lead Poisoning Prevention Fund to cover 50% of lead removal costs and partnering with EGLE to implement the Septic Replacement Loan Program to replace failing septic systems.
Before joining Michigan Saves, Chanell served as the executive director of ProsperUs Detroit, an organization dedicated to advancing economic equity for
underrepresented entrepreneurs. Through her leadership, Chanell led the team through the complex pro-
The Chronicle Small Business
cess of separating ProsperUs from its former parent agency and into a successful standalone as a community development financial institution (CDFI), making it the first Black-led CDFI in Michigan.
This transition expanded its reach to Northeast Detroit in areas like Inkster, strengthened its administration to provide financial coaching, and quadrupled the organization’s annual budget and assets management. In 2022, ProsperUs provided $200,000 in grants to partners within the community to invest in their neighborhoods.
Chanell’s passion for community economic development, climate resilience, and strengthening underserved communities has positioned her to lead Michigan Saves in expanding equitable access to clean energy upgrades for the health and safety of all Michiganders.
She serves as board chair for the Build from Within Alliance, an organization that supports entrepreneurs of color in underserved communities, and recently spoke on a panel at the Clean Economy and Community Impact Summit. Chanell has also consulted on community economic development initiatives, serving as a National Urban Fellow at the Cleveland Foundation.
Spotlight-How R.M. Easterly Revolutionized
the Small Business Scene with THYIM: A Success Story
For R.M. Easterly, the road to becoming a successful entrepreneur started in the most unlikely of places—stranded on the side of a highway, helpless and waiting. What should have been a routine trip turned into a five-hour ordeal as R.M. waited endlessly for a roadside assistance service that never seemed to arrive. This frustrating experience would go on to change the course of her life and inspire the creation of THYIM, a company that now promises to do what others couldn’t: deliver fast, reliable assistance when you need it most.
As a serial entrepreneur with seven successful business exits under her belt, R.M. was no stranger to problem-solving, but this particular problem felt deeply personal.
“I remember sitting there for hours, watching cars pass by, feeling com-
pletely stuck,” she recalls. “It wasn’t just the inconvenience; it was the helplessness that really hit me.”
Determined to find a better solution, R.M. spent the next five years researching the roadside assistance industry from the inside out.
In a twist of fate, she took a job at the very company that had left her stranded. There, she witnessed firsthand the inefficiencies and gaps in service that could leave someone vulnerable, with no help in sight.
But it wasn’t until she met a 92-yearold woman in the same situation that her resolve to change the system truly crystallized.
“I’ll never forget her face,” R.M. says quietly. “She had been waiting for hours, just like I had, but her situation was far worse. She had soiled herself from waiting so long, and no one was com -
ing. It broke my heart to see her like that. I couldn’t just stand by and do nothing.”
R.M. called a friend to assist the elderly woman, but the incident cemented a new sense of purpose for her: creating an assistance service that wouldn’t leave people stranded and vulnerable. THYIM was born from that moment, built on the promise of fast, reliable help when it’s needed most, with a focus on treating every customer with dignity and respect. It is an indoor and outdoor services company for everyday people by everyday people.
But R.M.’s journey to entrepreneurship began long before this pivotal experience. Scan to read full story
Courtesy Photo-Chanel Scott Contreras President and CEO of Michigan Saves, the nations first nonprofit green bank.
Courtesy Photo-R.M. Easterly - Founder/CEO THYIM
LCC Jazz Band Hosts Fall Swing Fling
LANSING, Mich. October 24, 2024-The LCC Jazz Band, led by Jonathon Gewirtz, will host a swing dance event with live music on November 1 from 6-9 p.m. in the LCC Gannon Commons. This free event is open to everyone in the community.
“It will be a fun night of dancing and live music,” said Gewirtz. “We have dance instructors who will guide participants along through the night to the sound track of the big band era performed by the LCC Band.”
Big band era classics from the 1930’s, 40’s, and 50’s will be featured, including works by Duke Ellington, Glenn Miller, Benny Goodman, Count Basie, and many more. The LCC Jazz Band is made up of standard instrumentation of the big band era and will feature the artistic and powerful vocals of AnnaMaria Horn.
“There are not many opportunities in the Lansing area to dance to a live big band,” said Gewirtz. “I'm very excited to help create an opportunity to connect and engage with not only the LCC community, but also, the greater Lansing community.”
Free parking is available on Grand Avenue and on the first floor of the Gannon Parking Ramp.
Holiday Food & Essentials Drive to
The Community Catalyst Teams Up with Local Organizations to Spread Holiday Cheer
LANSING , MI — The Community Catalyst and Chronicle Media Group, in collaboration with Eastside Fish Fry, Believe Family Outreach, and Fortuo, are proud to announce the 2024 Holiday Food & Essentials Distribution. This initiative aims to provide food, essential supplies, and winter clothing to over 600 families during the holiday season.
Event Details
Date: December 21, 2024
Time: 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Distribution Locations:
Eastside Fish Fry – 2417 East Kalamazoo Street, Lansing, MI 48912
Fortuo – 4924 S Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, Lansing, MI 48910
What We’re Collecting To make this event a success, we’re reaching out to the community to contribute:
Food Items: Non-perishable items
Support
600 Families This Season
such as canned goods, pasta, rice, and beans. (Drop-off location: Eastside Fish Fry)
Essentials: Hygiene products like soap, toothpaste, diapers, and winter clothing (hats, gloves, scarves, coats). (Drop-off location: Transformation GEMS, 3333 S. Pennsylvania Ave, Lansing, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM)
Toys: New or gently used toys for children of all ages.
Monetary Donations: Every dollar
helps us purchase additional items for those in need. Click Here to make your tax-deductible contribution
How You Can Get Involved
Donate: Drop off items at our collection points prior to the event on December 21st.
Volunteer: Join us at the event to distribute food, essentials, and toys to families in need.
Share: Spread the word by sharing this event with your friends and
family on social media.
“We believe that together, we can make a significant impact this holiday season. Whether you donate, volunteer, or help us spread the word, your contribution will ensure no family goes without food, warmth, or holiday joy,” says Yanice Yvette, Founder & Executive Director of The Community Catalyst.
For more information, please contact us:
Website: www.lansingcatalyst.org
Phone: 517-235-6340
Email: info@lansingcatalyst.org
Instagram: @communitycatalyst17
About The Community Catalyst: The Community Catalyst is a 501c3 nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering communities through collaboration and support. By working with local partners, we strive to uplift individuals and families through meaningful community initiatives.
Together, we can bring joy and relief to families in need this holiday season. We hope to see you there!
How To Plan a Big Family Vacation Everyone Will Enjoy
Planning a large family vacation isn’t easy, especially when the goal is to ensure every member has a memorable experience. You must consider numerous factors, from selecting the perfect destination and timing the trip correctly to budgeting and planning activities.
Family vacations are opportunities to bond, create lasting memories, and break away from the mundane. The planning process, however, can be exciting and overwhelming.
Transform your potential stressors into enjoyable experiences by understanding the essential elements of a successful family vacation. Check out our quick walkthrough to learn how to plan a big family vacation everyone will enjoy.
Finding the Perfect Destination for All Ages
Begin by considering destinations that offer a mix of activities suitable for various age groups. For instance, beach resorts often provide kids’ clubs, water sports, and relaxing spots for adults.
National parks can also be a great option, offering hiking trails, wildlife observation, and educational programs that appeal to young and older participants. Evaluating potential destinations thoroughly can save you from unexpected disappointments.
Look for places with family-friendly accommodations and amenities. Aim for destinations that offer a variety of
activities to keep everyone engaged, from toddlers to grandparents.
Lastly, involve your children in the decision-making process. Doing so builds excitement and ensures you consider their interests. Ask them about their dream vacation spots and try to incorporate some of their ideas into the final choice.
Choosing the Right Time for a
An Open Letter to New Mothers
BY KRISTEN VICTORIA FREEMAN
Dear sister, in the depths of postpartum, I see you. I was you. I am you.
Whether you are having a day of pure adoration, bottomless gratitude, of immense love for this new chapter in life, or you are battling internal conflict, confused thinking "what have I done?" If you are wondering if you can survive this season and hold all the responsibility of taking care of this precious, tiny human, you are not alone. Whether you feel achy, celebratory, tender, unraveled or you feel all of it in one swift moment, I see you. Your feelings, your sensations, and your emotions are valid.
You may be the mom who woke up in a puddle of her own breastmilk this morning. Laundering the sheets each day and wondering, "when will the oversupply regulate? When will the pain of engorgement subside? It will, eventually. You may be the one cringing, skin crawling with each latch, just waiting on the month mark you promised yourself. You may be evading the guilt you would feel if you 'gave it up' now. You
may be the one anxiously awaiting your milk to come in, squeezing your breasts each time you are in the shower to check and see if there is anything in there. You may be the mom whose milk never did come in, the one who never had the chance to try feeding her baby from her body. You may be carrying some shame about that. If so, I pray it lifts off you soon.
You may have been the mama with a flailing baby,
Family Vacation
An essential way to plan a big family vacation everyone will enjoy is to ensure that everyone’s schedules align before making any reservations, which is not always easy. Consider factors such as school schedules, work commitments, and weather conditions to determine the best time for your trip.
Traveling during off-peak seasons can result in less crowded destinations and lower costs, making the experience more enjoyable for everyone. For example, choosing dates wisely is critical to any guide to Disney World trip preparation because peak season can bring large crowds, which can influence whether a family chooses to visit.
Check your chosen destination’s local climate to ensure suitable weather conditions. Simply put, visiting a beach destination during the rainy season might not be ideal. Scan to read full story
contorting and squirming and screaming themselves to sleep in your arms last night. You may have been the one crying right along with them, letting the noise machine drown you both out. You may have gotten six hours of sleep last night and still, you feel exhausted.
You may be the mama who says “it's fine” when you know deep down, you need every bit of help you can get. You may be the mother in desperation wondering when 'the village' will come to the rescue. You may be the one who misses her social life, her work life, her love life. You may be the mama who cannot imagine going back to work in a couple of weeks or a couple of months. You may be the mom looking into a toddler’s disappointed, tearful eyes as you reject playtime yet again to take care of the baby’s needs. You may secretly (perhaps, shamefully) wish and want for just one more day as a mom of one.
Yes, I see you, too.
Scan to read full story
You may be the mom who wept in the rocker, holding your sleeping, beautiful baby, wishing your own mom was still alive to share in this experience.
