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Connected Fall/Winter 2026

celebrating wellness celebrating wellness where we w ere we STEVE PETTY

live, work, and Play

When we think about health and wellness, it’s easy to think about the choices we make as individuals: what we eat, how often we exercise, whether we get enough sleep, or how we manage stress. Those choices matter. But as a steward of community resources, the Foundation must also focus on upstream conditions for health and well-being -- How much is our health influenced by the places and people that surround us every day? The communities where we live. The people we work with. The parks, trails, schools, libraries, and gathering places where we spend our time. The relationships that give us a sense of connection and purpose.

It is also a reminder that wellness looks different throughout our lives. A high school student finding purpose and connection through service may experience wellness differently than an older adult living with dementia who wants to remain active and welcomed in their community. One of the most important things we can do at 5 Healthy Towns Foundation is to create the conditions that make healthy choices easier and healthy lives more attainable.

That’s the theme that ties together this edition of Connected: Celebrating Wellness Where We Live, Work and Play.

We invest in places that encourage people to move. We support organizations that bring people together. We help employers create healthier workplaces. We connect people to resources and opportunities. We work hand-in-hand with residents and community partners to build towns where people feel that they belong.

Sometimes it’s quite literal. Communities are creating safer places to walk, building trails and playgrounds, organizing run clubs, and finding new ways for people of different ages and abilities to be active together.

You will see many examples of that work in this issue. None of them alone defines wellness. Together, though, they tell a much more interesting story about what makes a healthy community.

But some of the most important influences on our health aren’t physical at all.

I hope this edition inspires you to think about the places and people that contribute to your own wellbeing—and perhaps about how you can help create those opportunities for someone else.

A workplace where people feel valued and comfortable talking about how they’re doing can contribute to our well-being. Having a strong sense of purpose in our work or volunteer activities. Getting enough rest matters. Spending time outside matters. And having a place where people know your name—a coffee shop, library, senior center, wellness center, farmers market, church, park or neighborhood gathering place—matters too.

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In good health,

Steve Petty CEO 5 Healthy Towns Foundation

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8 CELEBRATING WELLNESS NEXT STEPS FOR 12 Where We Live, Work and Play

Dementia Friendly Communities

Written by Shawn Personke Photo courtesy of Chelsea Children’s Co-Op.

Written by Marcia Lane

Silver Maples of Chelsea Celebrates Wellness with residents, staff and community.

Being Designated as a Dementia-Friendly Community is Good for Everyone.

14 GRASS LAKE KEY CLUB

22 fINDING STRENGTH THROUGH

50 MANCHESTER GOES

Written by Ava Kumor, President, Grass Lake Key Club

Written by Chelsea Wellness Center staff

Written by Matt Pegouskie

TAKES ON WELLNESS 10 IT’S OK TO TALK ABOUT IT Written by Dr. Andrew Cuthbert 13 TIPS FOR HELPING SOMEONE WITH DEMENTIA Written by Susan Reynolds 16 THE JOY OF COOKING WITH A GOOD COOKBOOK Written by Matt Pegouskie 18 FINDING PURPOSE AT WORK Written by Lori Kintz 20 THE MENTAL HEALTH BENEFITS OF MASSAGE THERAPY Written by Chelsea Wellness Center staff 24 MAKING FOOD SWAPS AT WORK WILL KEEP YOU WORKING WELL Written by Rachel Strodel 6 | 5healthytowns.org

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26 THE FUTURE OF SOUND – AI INNOVATIONS

44 SHARED GRANT MAKING INSPIRES

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28 40 WINKS FOR WELL-BEING Written by Lori Kintz 30 CONGRATULATIONS TO ANGELA SARGEANT Written by Lori Kintz 34 MORE THAN A MEETING PLACE – SENIOR CENTERS FOSTER BELONGING Written by Lori Kintz 36 WORKING WELL CASE STUDIES Written by Lori Kintz 38 WHERE EVERYONE KNOWS YOUR NAME Written by Matt Pegouskie 40 THE WELLNESS CONNECTION Written by Matt Pegouskie 42 BE THE ANCHOR – SRSLY DEXTER Written by Ursula Anderson

46 CELEBRATING A FABULOUS FEAST IN GRASS LAKE Written by Mitzi Koors 52 WALK THIS WAY Written by Matt Pegouskie 54 NATURE’S INVITATION TO SLOW DOWN Written by Dr. Melissa Sunderman

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For information on how to advertise, please contact 5 Healthy Towns Foundation at (734) 433-4599 5 Healthy Towns Foundation makes every effort to provide accurate information in advertising and editorial content, however, does not make any claims Fall/Winter 2026 | 7 as to accuracy of information provided by advertisers or editorial contributors and accepts no responsibility or liability for inaccurate information. 7

on the cover

CELEBRATING WELLNESS WHERE WE LIVE WORK & PLAY

Written by Shawn Personke

Over 30 years ago, Chelsea visionaries Art Dils and Will Johnson saw the need for a place for active seniors to retire - graciously, well, and connected. And that place was Silver Maples of Chelsea. Skip forward to 2026, and that vision has not only come to fruition, but grown into a senior living community that supports wellness not only for its residents, but also its staff and the greater Chelsea community. “The beautiful thing about Silver Maples is the way our mission supports wellness in a myriad of ways for so many people,” said Holly Ridenour, CEO of Silver Maples. 8 | 5healthytowns.org

Sometimes a good idea blossoms into a great idea in ways that no one expected.

“Our residents benefit from our connection with the Chelsea community, our staff benefit from their relationships with our residents, and the Chelsea community benefits from our outreach, support, and programming,” Ridenour added. “Together, these create a sense of wellness, a chance to live, work, and play in the most unique way." For those living at Silver Maples, the idea of wellness is wide ranging —from membership at the Chelsea Wellness Center to contributing ideas and advice at the Resident Council to participating in programs that enrich the mind, soul, and body.

“It’s an amazing space,” Ridenour said. “We know that our residents have such a wealth of life experiences. They’ve been living purposeful lives, and we want that mindset to continue to flourish at Silver Maples.” Ridenour added that those fascinating lives add incredible value to the staff experience. “I think our team comes to work every day and learns something new —how to interact with the world, how a life well-lived can pay dividends, or how to roll with the punches.” Employee mental well-being is also an important goal for Silver Maples, which has been nationally recognized for its workplace excellence.

Since the opening of the Maples Room in 2007, Silver Maples has connected with the greater Chelsea community by offering free concerts, hosting local and regional artists in Gallery 100, and supporting events such as the 5 Healthy Towns Farm to Table dinner and the Sounds & Sights Festival. “It’s important to us, as a non-profit, that we give back to Chelsea,” said Ridenour. This also means partnering with other organizations, such as the Chelsea Senior Center, Chelsea Schools, and Washtenaw Community College. “Over the years, we’ve made our spaces available to groups like the Chelsea Rotary and the Chelsea Area Chamber of Commerce. We love welcoming the community into our home.” But perhaps, one of the best things about the Silver Maples community is their sense of play.

We strive to offer our staff opportunities to think about the ways their lifestyles, including work/life balance, can be improved,” said Ridenour. To that end, Ridenour said they are launching a new initiative, the ‘Better Health Bingo” game that encourages their team to think beyond wellness as a physical activity. “Everyone loves bingo, it’s easy to play,” she said, “but more importantly it showcases activities that promote connecting, giving, creativity, and helping others.”

“We have a lot of joy here,” said Ridenour, “and we’ve been doing it for almost 30 years.” Between special events like the SM Olympic Games, the UM v MSU rivalry parties, and special dinners like the Rock-n-Roll Chicken Broil, Silver Maples is party central. “It’s just a fun place to be, whether you’re living, working or visiting,” laughed Ridenour.

She adds that it’s also fun to check off the bingo squares and see your progress. “There’s the idea that it’s one step at a time, one square at a time. When you see that steps taken weren't as difficult as you may have thought, it encourages you to keep on going Fall/Winter 2026 | 9

“It's OK to Talk About It: Creating a Mentally Healthy Workplace Culture”

Written by Andrew Cuthbert, PsyD, LP, Timber Creek Counseling

Is it okay to talk about it? Defining a mentally healthy workplace culture is just that - talking. The conversation doesn’t have to be comfortable all of the time. The term “mental health” in workplaces can often get narrowly labeled as only being about big problems, but mental health in the workplace is really just about people being allowed to be people, with all of their thoughts, feelings, and experiences welcome.

Research shows that simple steps - like signage that advertises resources, so employees know they can access it when they are ready – is a good place to start. The good news is that by including mental health in a regular way at work, the judgment decreases and so does the burnout. It is not a cure-all, but it helps. Along with stigma reduction campaigns, workplaces can also boost employee well-being by encouraging regular breaks, setting clear boundaries on after-hours communication, and asking managers do quick, empathetic workload check-ins. Lastly, if it still feels like too big of an undertaking, just start with a simple check-in with someone else today. Workplaces can easily encourage brief mental health check-ins by using fast rating scales, like numbers or colors, during regular meetings and having managers casually normalize taking breaks.

Having open conversations is how you know that all experiences are welcome. One easy thing workplaces can do is a stigma reduction campaign or workshop. These involve increasing employee awareness about how to recognize psychological struggles and actively support each other at work. This establishes a workplace culture that says – “it’s okay to talk about life at work.” It is important to reduce stigma because one of the biggest reasons for employee burnout is that people do not address issues (think using EAP benefits, for example) because they fear being judged.

So how about you how are you on a scale of 1 to 10 today? Don’t worry, it’s okay to talk about it.

There is no such thing as a perfect workplace culture. Any mix of human beings in any place is going to be challenging, and things will not always feel okay. Some days the workplace will feel positive and productive, and other days you might show up to work and will not feel your best. You are still you when you come to work - with your happiness or grief, your relationship tensions, your joys, and your anxieties.

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Fall/Winter 2026 | 11

The formation of a Dementia Friendly Dexter Action Team is another milestone. Spearheaded by the Dexter Wellness Coalition and led by Community Coordinator Carrie McElroy, it’s also supported by the Dexter Rotary Club. Dexter City Council recently provided the team with an official Proclamation of Support and held a dementia friendly workshop for City staff and Council Members in September. As one Council Member noted, “We hope to see all businesses in downtown Dexter displaying a window cling indicating that they’re Dementia Friendly.”

Written by Marcia Lane, Chelsea Rotary Club

Next Steps for Dementia Friendly Communities Since Spring when we introduced the Dementia Friendly movement in Western Washtenaw County, several milestones have been achieved. One is official recognition of Chelsea as a Dementia Friendly Community —only the 5th in all of Michigan. In July, the Washington DC-based Dementia Friendly America welcomed Dementia Friendly Chelsea into the nationwide network of over 400 towns, cities and counties committed to being welcoming places where people with dementia and their caregivers can comfortably participate in community life. Achieving this national recognition was the result of months of organizational and educational work by the Dementia Friendly Chelsea Action Team, a group of community leaders and stakeholders representing the full cross section of the community, including government, business, residential and faith sectors. Community Coordinator Marcia Lane said, “We’ve been happily delivering Dementia Friendly workshops, where various organizations learn the easy ways to productively and respectfully interact with persons on the dementia journey – whether friends and neighbors, customers, clients, or members of a club or congregation.” 12 | 5healthytowns.org 12

A third significant achievement is the recent award of a $9,850 grant from the 5 Healthy Towns Foundation, to continue spreading dementia friendliness through not only Chelsea and Dexter, but also Manchester, Grass Lake, and Stockbridge. Much of this work in the western county meshes with Dementia Friendly Saline, Dementia Friendly Milan and other efforts building toward a goal of Dementia Friendly Washtenaw County. The Chelsea and Dexter teams operate as part of the nonprofit DFS–Dementia Friendly Services, the Washtenaw County based lead organization for Dementia Friendly Community development in Michigan. As DFS President Jim Mangi said, “All Dementia Friendly Communities are works in progress, and we are gladly supporting Chelsea and Dexter’s amazing efforts to fulfill the goal of being cities where people walk toward a person with dementia, not away from them. Because, in these towns, and everywhere else, persons living with dementia are a part of, not apart from, the community.” Dementia Friendly Services, a 501c3 nonprofit established in 2020, offers a suite of programs focused on the mission of helping persons with Alzheimer’s or other dementia, and their caregivers, live in their communities with less difficulty and more dignity. Programs include education and increasing awareness, through classes, documentaries, and social impact theatre productions. Also offered are several social engagement and support programs for people dealing with dementia, such as the firstin-the-US Dementia Friendly Movies at Saline’s Emagine Theatre, and a series of Memory Cafes in several locations. For more information, reach out to 5 Healthy Towns Foundation.

Tips for Helping Someone with Dementia Written by Susan Reynolds Dementia is an umbrella term for neurocognitive challenges that affect speech, thinking, mobility and information processing. The decline is significant enough that it interferes with everyday life and abilities. If you know someone with dementia, these tips and resources may help you help them, and in return, improve quality of life for everyone.

Resources

Never argue, always agree Be empathetic, warm and authentic Make sure you are within the person’s visual field before you do anything Be aware of hearing limitations (approach from the side that has the best hearing) Speak clearly and slowly, using simple words accompanied by visual/physical cues Ask one question or give one step at a time. Make questions simple if possible. If the person doesn’t understand, repeat the question using the same words, but slower and clearer, with simple gestures If giving choices, only give 2 – this or that It’s okay to acknowledge their struggles and to remind them that you struggle too sometimes When walking with them, put your closest hand to them, behind them on their back and then use your other hand to hold the person’s closest hand. It allows you to help with balance issues and to direct them to where they need to go Remember, they are not doing this on purpose. Their brain is not functioning the way it used to, and they cannot help their actions. Since they cannot change their behavior, it is up to us to adjust ours to help them Get comfortable with being uncomfortable The only real constant is that there are no constants – every day/moment/person with dementia will probably be different Magic words – Can You Help Me? Or I Need Your Help?

Website- Teepa Snow – Positive Approach to Care- teepasnow.com/ (Also YouTube videos by her) Website – Alzheimer’s Association -www.alz.org/ Careblazers – Dr. Natalie Edmonds - careblazers.com/for-families/ (Also YouTube channel and videos)

Dementia Caregiver Guide by Teepa Snow

The 36-Hour Day by Nancy L. Mace, and Peter V. Babbins

Loving Someone Who Has Dementia by Pauline Boss, PhD.

The Small Guide to Alzheimer’s Disease by Gary Small, M. D.

Self-Care for Caregivers by Susan White

Fall/Winter 2026 | 13

Written by Ava Kumor, Grass Lake Key Club

Grass Lake Key Club Expands Its Mission to Student Wellness

You might have heard of Key Club before, but what is it really about? Key Club is a student-run organization focusing on service and leadership, and it is a branch of Kiwanis International. It aims to develop initiative, citizenship, and compassion in students, preparing them for success later in life. Grass Lake High School Key Club is one of over 5,000 chapters around the globe! While Key Club’s overall mission is universal, Grass Lake High School Key Club’s goal this year is for greater impact and engagement in our school, especially relating to both mental and physical wellness, while also continuing and expanding on past projects, such as our annual Thirst Project Walk-a-thon. We believe that peer-to-peer messaging will help students feel heard and supported, and we have the unique ability as students ourselves to recognize what improvements should be made in our school.

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One area we are excited to grow in is recruitment! We had amazing growth in our Key Club this past year and wish to maintain that going forward. From advertising to the incoming freshman class on the first day of school to posting flyers to the whole student body, we are doing everything to get the word out. Rather than just accumulating passive members, we also want to support Key Club’s mission by increasing involvement, giving our members more opportunities to learn and grow throughout their time in Key Club. With new class representative and committee roles this year, we are working to provide all members with ways to get involved and help make a clear, sustainable difference. Along with this, we are planning to charter a middle school branch of Kiwanis, Builders Club, to give students a chance to begin developing these leadership and citizenship skills younger. We are also looking forward to prioritizing wellness this school year in collaboration with 5 Healthy Towns Foundation and the Grass Lake Community Wellness Initiative. Our current areas of focus for wellness are mental health, healthy eating, safe driving, hydration, and exercise. We have various ideas to address these topics throughout the school year, including step challenges, healthy cooking classes, collaboration with the school resource officer, and, to kick off the year, a wellness expo for students during lunch! These projects will make strides in supporting the wellbeing of Grass Lake High School students. All in all, we are looking forward to another great year of Key Club, and we hope to continue our growth and strengthen our community with our focus on student involvement and wellness!

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Joy of Cooking The

GD CKBK with a

Written by 5 Healthy Towns Foundation staff

These days, I’d bet most home cooks get their recipes from the internet. After all, there are countless home cooks with blogs/pins/websites with their instructions for preparing meals. However, there is something to be said for cookbooks. They allow you to write down notes and adjustments to recipes AND I’ve never seen a cookbook assault the reader with countless pop-up ads. Lastly, they make a great gift for the culinarians in your life. Here are several cookbooks to consider for someone you love. Maybe even yourself. #Treatyoself.

The Joy of Cooking – Irma Rombauer A must-have for the home cook. There are nine editions of The Joy of Cooking, including the most recent one from 2019. 1200 pages of recipes, including apple pie, steak tartar, squirrel pie, and zucchini fritters. Fun facts – the first author Irma Rombauer wrote most of the 1935 first draft while summering in Michigan. Rombauer’s Great Grandson John and his wife Megan developed more than 600 new recipes for the 2019 update.

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Bluey’s Fancy Restaurant and/or Christmas Cookbook Everyone’s favorite Blue Heeler has authored not one but TWO cookbooks. Perfect for Bluey fans of every age, they are good cookbooks for getting little ones engaged and interested in cooking. Fancy Restaurant includes recipes for Mort’s favorite curried sausages and pepper salads while the Christmas Cookbook includes instructions for making Verdana Santa Strawberry Hats, fruit pies, and roast pork. Both books are easy to read, have difficulty ratings and how-to diagrams. Do Do Do Do Do Dooo Do Do….

Quick Recommendations German, Italian, Mexican, Thai…everyone has their favorite genres. Here are a few options we use regularly. Jet Tila’s 101 Asian Dishes You Need to Cook Before you Die explains southeast Asian cuisine in a way most amateur cooks can understand. The Splendid Table by Lynne Rossetto Kasper is a must for anyone interested in Italian cuisine. Our 5 Healthy Towns region has more than a few people of German descent. Advent by Anja Dunk has over 100 German holiday classics that brings the flavors and smells of Germany’s Christkindlmarkt into your kitchens and living rooms.

I’m just here for the Food – Alton Brown Every cookbook has plenty of HOW to cook different dishes. Alton Brown’s first book, “I’m just here for the Food,” was one of the first books to mention WHY ingredients react the way they do to different applications of heat and time. 288 pages long, the book explains different techniques in a cross between Monty Python and Julia Child. You’ll find instructions for how to prepare chicken piccata, marinated barbequed tofu, or a grill modified with a hair dryer (more air = more heat.)

The Family Cookbook – Your family’s name goes here You’re not likely to find this cookbook on the shelf of one of our local booksellers or any national chain. This is a do-ityourself special. Every family has at least a few recipes that are part of their tradition. The family cookbook is an opportunity to capture those recipes before it’s too late. Our family cookbook is composed of family favorites written by hand or typed out, stuffed into plastic sleeves and then inserted into a three-ring binder. This is a great project for families to work on together and requires little investment besides time and talking to each other.

A quick reminder - Our 5 Healthy Towns have several local bookstores and all our local libraries have used books sales that help benefit their operations. Don’t forget to look local before searching your browser. Bon Appetite!

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FINDING PURPOSE AT WORK Written by 5 Healthy Towns Foundation staff Workplace relationships matter more than ever. My “work family,” the people I spend 40 hours with each week, are my extended family. I trust them, share with them, and in a pinch, rely on them to go to bat for me when I need help. Some examples include when evening or weekend meetings conflict with responsibilities at home; when big projects require multiple perspectives; when something is going on in their lives and I can help in some way. In the 2025 5HF survey, we asked, “How strongly do you agree with this statement – I lead a purposeful and meaningful life.” More than 80% of survey respondents agreed or strongly agreed. Purpose and meaning are indicators for connection and social belonging, an important measure that contributes to wellness. Finding purpose while being surrounded by people who care is the best formula for balancing work and life. It’s not always about having the best paying job. More often, it comes from understanding how your efforts contribute to something larger than yourself, whether that is helping customers, supporting coworkers, improving your community, or making a positive impact through your organization. 18 18 | 5healthytowns.org

In my early career, I hopped around to gain new skills, and find new opportunities. But today, there is a reassuring feeling knowing that I am surrounded by people who care about my well-being. Research shows that employees who feel a sense of purpose are more engaged, productive, and satisfied. They are also more likely to stay motivated during challenges because they understand the value of their contributions. Finding purpose can begin with a simple reflection: • What part of your work makes a difference? • Who benefits from what you do? • How do your personal values align with your organization’s mission? Whether you work outside of the home, volunteer in the community, are a member of a church or wellness center, participate in a sports community for yourself or your children – these can all be examples of a work family that contribute to your purpose and happiness.

Meet Holly McDermott

Executive Director of the Manchester Senior Center

Holly expresses her gratitude for the opportunity to join the Manchester community and work alongside residents and community leaders that value connection, service, and quality of life for older adults. She brings more than two decades of experience in customer service, event coordination, and administrative support. Most recently, she worked with Dexter Community Schools, supporting daily operations while fostering a welcoming and inclusive environment. Prior to that, she spent many years at Schoolcraft College as a Banquet and Catering Supervisor and Event Services Coordinator, leading teams and coordinating large-scale events. Throughout her career, she has valued collaboration, organization, and building strong relationships—qualities she will bring to the Senior Center. Stop by to introduce yourself. She looks forward to serving the seniors of Manchester. Reach Holly at Centerdirector@msccinc.org

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THE MENTAL HEALTH BENEFITS

o f M a ssa g e T h e ra p y Written by Chelsea Wellness Center staff

Massages are often associated with retreats or vacation getaways; however, massage therapy may offer benefits beyond easing muscle aches and tension, including support for your mental well-being. Massage therapy could be a helpful tool to consider for relaxation and promoting a sense of calm. Understanding Massage Therapy Are you ready to take a step toward relief? The Mayo Clinic Press explains that massage therapists knead and press the muscles and ligaments at the surface of the skin to treat the arms, legs, neck, back, and shoulders where tension or discomfort may be present. During your session, we can help target the specific tissues that you need for a happier, healthier you. Plus, you may move with greater confidence and comfort after you attend each session. Massage therapy might help with blood pressure levels and circulation as well. Consulting a massage therapist can help you learn how a session can be tailored to your individual needs. What Massage Therapy Can Offer You Once you book your massage therapy appointment, you will have the opportunity to receive feedback and insights from our certified therapists. One of our massage therapists, DJ Anderson, explains the benefits of this service. “Massage therapy can help with mental clarity, release endorphins, Reference: Mayo Clinic Press Editors. “Mayo Clinic Explore: The Role of Massage Therapy for Mental Health.” Mayo Clinic Press. November 2, 2021. mcpress.mayoclinic.org/ mental-health/mayo-clinic-explores-the-role-of-massagetherapy-for-mental-health

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and lower our stress hormone, scientifically known as cortisol. It’s a complete reboot of the nervous system.” Make sure you take the time to prioritize your mental health. This will give your body and mind a chance to recover from the daily stressors you face. Focus on finding balance in your life with the help of massage therapy. Massage therapy may help lower your heart rate, which can support reduced stress and anxiety, according to Mayo Clinic Press. A massage session could also stimulate the release of endorphins in the brain, which can help improve mood. Massage sessions can provide an opportunity to clear the mind. Massage therapists might accompany the session with calming music to create a peaceful environment, allowing you to focus on the present moment. During a session, a massage therapist may encourage you to close your eyes to support a more meditative or mindful experience. This can help limit everyday distractions such as phones, emails, and other responsibilities. You might even leave the session feeling refreshed with a renewed perspective. Take time to support your mental health by creating space to relax, unwind, and focus on self-care.

See the Member Services Desk at Chelsea Wellness Center or Dexter Wellness Center to schedule your massage today!

Gratitude is good medicine A regular gratitude practice can make you healthier and lead to: Better mood

Lower blood pressure

Better sleep

Improved immune function

Pair it up

Do your gratitude right after something else you do every day, such as brushing your teeth or eating lunch. This makes the habit stick.

How to start a gratitude habit Repeat daily to build a habit!

Soak it in

Savor those grateful feelings and feel good about yourself. If you enjoy your new habit, you’re more likely to stick with it!

Jot it down

Grab some paper or a notebook you already have, nothing fancy. Then, write down anything you feel grateful for.

“I don’t know what to be grateful for!” It doesn’t have to be Thanksgiving-level to count. Focus on anything simple like: For the clouds

For my heart that keeps beating

For my friend

For this sandwich

For this day

Fall/Winter 2026 | 21

h t g n e Str finding

through the

program Written by Chelsea Wellness Center staff

Are you looking for relief from a condition or trying to regain your strength after surgery? MyFitRx can provide you with the tools and guidance you need so you can move at your own pace with confidence. We proudly use this program to assist our members at Chelsea Wellness Center through 10 specialized pathways, such as Cancer Fitness, Cognitive Health, Functional Fitness, Weight Management, and more. Consider choosing the pathway that best matches your wellness goals to live a healthier, happier life. No matter what stage of life you are in, MyFitRx meets you where you are on your physical health journey. To start the program, you will need a referral from your healthcare provider. With your provider’s recommendation, our fitness specialists will create a plan and schedule to help you with what matters most. One of our local physicians, Dori Tamagne, MD, shares the impact of MyFitRx, “Every patient I’ve referred to MyFitRx has come back to thank me. It’s made such a difference in participants’ quality of life. One person who thought she’d be wheelchair-dependent discovered strength and confidence in her ability to walk. This program can help make exercise more approachable.” 22 | 5healthytowns.org

Meet Sam Angus Think about how each step you take in this program can guide you in the right direction. You may become stronger and more comfortable with your movements, which can improve your overall well-being. Here’s what to expect from the program’s timeline. During your eight-week MyFitRx pathway, you will participate in two 60-minute exercise sessions each week while following your tailored routine. These impactful sessions will give you dedicated time to prioritize your health. There is also a virtual option available for those that may find difficulty getting to the center. Along the way, you’ll have access to helpful resources, such as fitness assessments. These assessments will occur at both the beginning and end, allowing you to track your progress. You will additionally receive full membership access to Chelsea Wellness Center so you can use our other services, amenities, and classes to your advantage. Our Wellness Navigator, Cady Paquin, shares her experience with the program, “Through MyFitRx, participants receive the guidance and support they need to feel more comfortable being active. I’ve seen participants improve their functional movement and make meaningful progress. Witnessing these positive changes has been incredibly rewarding.” By participating in MyFitRx, you can complete your pathway feeling prepared to navigate everyday life. Set yourself up for success and focus on enhancing your long-term health today.

My family chose Chelsea as our hometown twelve years ago because we wanted to stop driving to other towns to experience community and wellness through parades, live music, races, farmers’ markets, miles of hiking trails, and more. We ran in Heart and Sole our first spring in town, and soon thereafter I was coaching cross-country. I am now preparing for my tenth season of coaching and fourth as the Middle School cross-country coach. My love of running and the outdoors led me to the Parks and Recreation Commission, which I have served on for nine years. Soon thereafter, I joined the board of Chelsea Area Friends for Recreation (CAFR) and CERC (the Community Education and Recreation Collaborative), which I have chaired for over six years. Last year, this involvement in city affairs led me to run for City Council. Wellness isn’t just trails and gyms. For me, it has led me to my new role at the Senior Center, working with the Ease the Day Program. It has also been music. I am the chair of Chelsea Music Boosters and have been a roadie for my kids’ bands for almost ten years. We definitely got more than a home when we moved to Chelsea!

Fall/Winter 2026 | 23

Need to quench your thirst? Instead of relying on sugary beverages such as soda, juice, or Gatorade/Powerade, enjoy herbal tea, flavored sparkling water, or fruit infused water. Water and tea can be flavorful without added sugar and help with staying hydrated.

Making Food Swaps at Work will Keep You Working Well

Written by Rachel Strodel, MS, RDN, DipACLM

At work, making small swaps like these can help ensure energy levels stay stable and provide the nutrition the body needs. Snacking on foods high in added sugars, salt, and saturated fat can lead to that midday slump and make it difficult to concentrate and finish work. Consistently snacking on these types of food can also increase risk of high cholesterol, insulin resistance, and high blood pressure. Eating more whole, minimally processed foods can provide the body with vitamins, minerals, fiber, protein, and healthy fats that will lead to sustained energy to help get through the workday. Water is the best beverage for our body. When consuming sugary beverages, the sugar immediately gets into our bloodstream which makes our pancreas work harder, increasing risk for insulin resistance. Lastly, when snacking at work, try to take a five-minute break and focus on what is being consumed. When doing multiple tasks and not being mindful when eating, it can be easy to overindulge and eat too much in one sitting. It’s important to pay attention to hunger cues and stay well hydrated. Sometimes when we think we are hungry, we’re dehydrated. 24 24 | 5healthytowns.org

Experiencing a sweet tooth? Instead of a bowl of candy sitting on a desk or in the kitchen, have a bowl of fruit available. A variety of fruits don’t need to be refrigerated such as apples, bananas, oranges, pears, and peaches, and will give your body sustained energy due to the fiber content, as well as satisfy that sweet craving.

Want something salty? Instead of having chips, snack on nuts and seeds, whole grain or rice crackers with hummus or guac, or edamame. Whole grains, nuts, seeds, and edamame are high in fiber, protein, and healthy fats that will keep you satisfied longer and energy levels stable.

DIAL FOR SUPPORT

and understanding

24/7 mental health and substance use support

734-544-3050 LEARN MORE about programs funded by the community mental health and public safety preservation millage

Fall/Winter 2026 | 25

The Future of Sound: How AI Is Revolutionizing Written by Dr. Michelle Rankin Hearing Aids

For decades, hearing aids were simply designed to make the world louder. Today, artificial intelligence has transformed them into sophisticated "smart assistants" for your ears — mimicking how the brain naturally processes sound to keep you connected to the world around you. Here's how AI is changing the lives of people with hearing loss:

Superior Clarity in Noisy Environments:

Health & Wellness Tracking:

AI uses deep neural networks to separate speech from background noise — like clinking silverware or traffic — and can perform millions of sound adjustments per hour. Some devices even recognize the voices of loved ones, automatically focusing on them in a crowded room.

Modern AI hearing aids double as wellness tools, tracking steps, physical activity, heart rate, and even detecting falls. Some models also monitor social engagement and auditory stimulation are important factors in reducing the risk of dementia.

A Personalized Experience That Learns: Through machine learning, your hearing aids remember your preferences and adapt to your environment. Walk into your favorite gym or café and your devices can automatically switch to your custom settings — no adjustments needed.

Less Listening Fatigue: Hearing loss forces your brain to work overtime, filling in gaps of missing sound. AI does the heavy lifting — filtering and organizing sound — so you can engage in longer conversations and stay mentally sharp throughout the day. 26 | 5healthytowns.org 26

Smart, Connected Features: AI-powered hearing aids now offer real-time language translation, hands-free voice commands, and live conversation transcription — directly through your smartphone. Is an AI Hearing Aid Right for You? AI-powered devices are ideal for active individuals who navigate complex sound environments daily. If you're ready to experience the difference, the best first step is a consultation with an audiologist — who will help you find the right fit for your lifestyle and hearing needs.

Community Care Collection

Explore CDL’s new collection of health resources. Intended to remove stigma or anxiety, materials do not require a library card or need to be checked out or returned.

Support

Learn

Heal

Topics include: Substance Use Disorders, Eating Disorders, Trauma Recovery, Divorce Domestic Violence, Youth & Adult Mental Health, Bipolar Disorder, and more. “The greatest wealth is health.” ~Virgil 221 S. Main St., Chelsea MI | 734-475-8732

DEXTER COMMUNITY SCHOOLS

Engaging, personalized curriculum for every kind of learner!

• High Quality, On-Campus Early Childhood Programs • Farm-to-School Program and Local Food Initiatives • Award-Winning Academics, Athletics, Arts and Extracurriculars, including International Exchanges • Customized Learning Pathways to Engage All Learners • Cutting-Edge Technology Integration • Diverse High School Curricula: International Baccalaureate Diploma, AP Courses, Early Middle College, Career and Technical Education, and more!

COME SEE WHAT WE ARE ALL ABOUT! dexterschools.org

FOR COMPLETE WELL SERVICE AND WATER CONDITIONING

SAFETY AT WORK — Sleep is also critical for workplace safety. Employees who are tired are more likely to make mistakes, overlook important details, and experience workplace injuries. Whether working in an office, on a construction site, or in a healthcare setting, adequate sleep helps improve focus, decisionmaking, and job performance.

40WINKS FOR WELL-BEING

Written by 5 Healthy Towns Foundation staff

We have been talking about sleep and rest for quite some time, because as we age, our sleep needs change. The simple truth is, as life gets busier, sleep is often the first thing we sacrifice. Yet getting enough quality sleep is one of the most important factors in maintaining productivity, safety, and overall well-being. Sleep affects nearly every aspect of our daily lives, from how we perform at work to how we connect with family and friends. In our first Working Well video series, we highlighted the medical issues related to sleep disorders, and the challenges for shift work. We also emphasized the importance of restful sleep as it relates to physical wellness in a recent Wellness Connection social media series. The bottom line is, if you are sleep deprived, you can’t maximize your productivity. According to the National Sleep Foundation, sleep is related to several critical issues: DROWSY DRIVING — One of the most overlooked dangers of poor sleep is drowsy driving. Fatigue can slow reaction times, impair judgment, and increase the risk of accidents. In fact, driving while severely sleep-deprived can affect performance similarly to driving under the influence of alcohol. 28 | 5healthytowns.org 28

SLEEP AND SOCIAL LIFE — Lack of sleep can also impact your social life. When we're exhausted, we may become irritable, withdrawn, or less patient with others. Good sleep helps us maintain positive relationships with coworkers, friends, and family members. The Pros and Cons of Using Technology Technology presents both opportunities and challenges when it comes to sleep. On the positive side, sleep-tracking apps, relaxation programs, and guided meditation tools can help establish healthy sleep habits. However, excessive screen time before bed can interfere with the body's natural sleep cycle. The blue light emitted by phones, tablets, and computers can make it harder to fall asleep and stay asleep. The Stress/Sleep Connection - Finally, it's important to recognize the powerful stress-sleep connection. Stress can make it difficult to fall asleep, while lack of sleep can increase feelings of stress and anxiety, creating a difficult cycle to break. Developing healthy stress-management practices—such as regular physical activity, mindfulness, and consistent sleep routines—can improve both sleep quality and overall well-being. For more information, check out this resource: thensf.org/sleep-health-topics/ Note: This article was written with support from AI technology.

huron-waterloo-pathways.org @hwpathways

Project Updates

Help Complete the Connection

Connecting the Border to Border Trail into

Downtown Dexter *project rendering

HWPI

Connecting People, Communities, and Nature

Opening this fall, the downtown connection of the B2B Trail will include the installation of the refurbished Bell Road Bridge over Mill t to the Miller-Smith Preserve. Donate Creek to close the remaining 1.4 mile gap between Dexter and Chelsea!

The B2B Trail is led by the Washtenaw County Parks and Recreation Commission and supported by the Fall/Winter 2026 | 29 Huron Waterloo Pathways Initiative, non-profit partner of the B2B Trail.

25 years and

COUNTING Congratulations to Angela Sargeant!

Twenty-five years is more than a milestone—it’s a testament to dedication, relationships, and a genuine commitment to helping others live healthier, more connected lives. For Angela Sargeant, celebrating 25 years with the 5HF Wellness Centers is an opportunity to reflect on a career filled with meaningful moments, countless connections, and a lasting impact on the people and communities we serve. Through changing times and evolving approaches to wellness, one thing has remained constant: a passion for helping others feel their best. Congratulations to Angela Sargeant for her 25-year tenure at the 5 Healthy Towns Foundation wellness centers. Since 2001, Angela has worked in a variety of administrative capacities - first as an administrative assistant, then as a member services director, and finally as center director at Dexter. Upon the retirement of Cindy Cope, Angela was promoted to Senior Center Director and now has operational responsibility for all three wellness centers (Chelsea, Dexter and Stockbridge). According to Angela, her most rewarding experiences focus on the people she has interacted with over the years, including members and staff. “I truly believe the people are what make our center a great place, both our members and our team. There is nothing more rewarding than seeing members walk through our doors to improve their health and wellness and watching them grow stronger and healthier. Being a small part of their journey is a privilege.” She also finds joy in supporting the wellness center team members, who work hard to develop new skills and achieve their professional goals.

Written by 5 Healthy Towns Foundation staff

Angela has seen significant changes in the wellness community over the past 3 decades. What excites her the most is the opportunity to be part of the upcoming renovations that will breathe new life into the Chelsea Wellness Center. “It feels like a full-circle moment. I was fortunate to be here when the center first opened in 2001, when everything was bright, new, and full of possibility. To still be here 25 years later, helping shape the next chapter of the center is an honor.” Angela shares her thanks for the opportunity to give input on the renovations that will continue to serve our current members while welcoming the next generation of members for years to come.

30 | 5healthytowns.org

Thank you to our local 6th graders for their creative designs for the SunTimes Student Showcase M A R K T.

A N N A B E L L E T.

V I O L E T

Z A C H C.

K A T I E

E M M A C.

Fall/Winter 2026 | 31

FALL 2026

Community Programs at Chelsea, Dexter and Stockbridge Wellness Centers

NITY EDUCATION

COMMUNITY EDUCATION

FALLRED 2026 CROSS BLOOD DONATION

ELEASE YOGA

at ToPrograms schedule an appointment, call 1-800-RED CROSS easing unconscious, stored grief in the body.Community As we OR visit redcrossblood.org and enter sponsor code: ward healing the body, mind and spirit, we may need Chelsea, Dexter andanStockbridge Wellness Centers dexterwellness or chelseawellness physical release. This special yoga class will include COMMUNITY EDUCATION COMMUNITY EDUCATION 2026 es, a meditative environment and a soulful playlist.FALLFriday 10/2 12:00-6:00pm FREE DEX on required. visit the Member Service Desk GRIEF Please RELEASE YOGA RED CROSS BLOOD DONATION Monday 10/19 1:00-6:00pm FREE CHE Community Programs at To schedule call 1-800-RED CROSS Explore unconscious, stored grief in the body. As we Monday -214-0220 forreleasing more information or to register. 12/14an appointment, 1:00-6:00pm FREE CHE and enter sponsor code: and Stockbridge Wellness Centers journey toward healingChelsea, the body, mindDexter and spirit, we may need an OR visit redcrossblood.org 14 6:00pm–7:00pm FREE dexterwellness intentional, physical release. This special yoga class will include CPR CLASS or chelseawellness /12 COMMUNITY 6:00pm–7:00pm FREE and a soulful playlist. gentle poses, a meditative environment EDUCATION COMMUNITY EDUCATION Friday 10/2 to learn 12:00-6:00pm An opportunity lifesaving skills FREE to help in anDEX emergency. /9 6:00pm–7:00pm FREE Registration required. Please visit the Member Service Desk Monday 10/19 1:00-6:00pm FREE CHE Registration Required. Please visit the Member Service Desk GRIEF RELEASE YOGA RED CROSS BLOOD DONATION or call 734-214-0220 for more information or CHE to register. Monday 12/14 1:00-6:00pm FREE CHE /7 6:00pm–7:00pm FREE

call for more or to register. To734-580-2500 schedule an appointment, callinformation 1-800-RED CROSS Explore releasing stored grief in the body. As we Monday 9/14 unconscious, 6:00pm–7:00pm FREE CPR OR visit CLASS redcrossblood.org and enter sponsor code: journey toward healing 6:00pm–7:00pm the body, mind andFREE spirit, we may need an Tuesday 10/20 5:00pm-8:30pm DEX Monday 10/12 ATIVE YOGA WORKSHOP An opportunityortochelseawellness learn lifesaving skills to help in an emergency. dexterwellness intentional, physical release. This special yoga Monday 11/9 6:00pm–7:00pm FREEclass will include MEM: $80 NON-MEM $105 Registration Required. Please visit the Member Service Desk or d stretch toposes, better wellness. Join a slow supportive gentle environment and a soulful playlist. Monday 12/7a meditative 6:00pm–7:00pm FREE CHE Friday 10/2 12:00-6:00pm FREE DEX call 734-580-2500 for more information or to register. Registration required. Please visit the Member Service Desk GAME signed to release body tension, improve flexibility, MondayOF 10/19 1:00-6:00pm FREE CHE GO Tuesday 10/20 5:00pm-8:30pm DEX YOGA WORKSHOP orRESTORATIVE call 734-214-0220 for more information or to register. Monday 12/14 1:00-6:00pm FREE CHE ess restore balance and help the mind settle into deep Game of $80 Go lessons &$105 group problem-solving at 10:00am on MEM: NON-MEM Unwind9/14 and stretch6:00pm–7:00pm to better wellness.FREE Join a slow supportive Monday ThisMonday class is suitable for all fitness levels. Saturdays. Paired games start at 11:00am. Beginner & all level of CPR CLASS practice designed to6:00pm–7:00pm release body tension, improve flexibility, 10/12 FREE GAME OF GO An opportunity to learn lifesaving skills to help in an emergency. players welcome. on required. Please visit the Member Service Desk reduce11/9 stress restore balance and helpFREE the mind settle into deep Monday 6:00pm–7:00pm Game of Go lessons & group problem-solving at 10:00am on Registration Required. Please visit the Member Service Desk or Saturdays 10:00am-12:00pm FREE relaxation. This class is suitable for fitness levels. CHE Saturdays. Paired games start at 11:00am. Beginner & all level of DEX Monday 12/7more 6:00pm–7:00pm FREE -214-0220 for information orallto register. call 734-580-2500 for more information or to register. players welcome. Registration required. Please visit the Member Service Desk 9/17 RESTORATIVE 7:30 pm–8:30 pmWORKSHOP FREE DEX Tuesday 10/20 5:00pm-8:30pm DEX YOGA SCHOLARSHIP OPPORTUNITIES Saturdays 10:00am-12:00pm FREE DEX or call 734-214-0220 for more information or to register. MEM: $80 NON-MEM $105 Unwind and9/17 stretch to better wellness. a slow supportive Thursday 7:30 pm–8:30 pmJoin FREE DEX Wellness Center membership and Community Education SCHOLARSHIP OPPORTUNITIES S HEALTH ANDtoFITNESS practice designed release body tension, improve flexibility, GAME OF GO Scholarships, through the 5 Healthy Towns Foundation, are availa Wellness Center membership and Community Education WOMEN’S HEALTH AND reduce restore balance and help the mind settle into deep NTING for stress Women’s Health &FITNESS Fitness Day Game of Go lessons & group problem-solving at 10:00am on Scholarships, through the 5 Healthy Towns Foundation, available to individuals meeting financial criteria. For moreare information, v MUG PAINTING forisAll Women’s &provided. Fitness This class suitable forHealth all are fitness levels. Day Saturdays. Paired games start at 11:00am. Beginner & all level of a funrelaxation. creative evening! materials to individuals meetingor financial criteria. For more information, visit 5healthytowns.org call the Center at 734-214-0220. players welcome. Registration Please visitAll thematerials Memberare Service Desk Join us for arequired. fun creative evening! provided. 5healthytowns.org or call the Center at 734-214-0220. on required. For more information or toorregister Saturdays 10:00am-12:00pm FREE DEX orRegistration call 734-214-0220 for more information toor register. required. For more information to register SPECIALIZED GROUPCLASSES CLASSES ember Service DeskService or call 734-214-0220. Max 30 SPECIALIZED GROUP visit the9/17 Member Desk or 734-214-0220. Max 30 Thursday 7:30 pm–8:30 pmcall FREE DEX SCHOLARSHIP OPPORTUNITIES participants. ts. ROCK STEADY BOXING ROCK STEADY BOXING Wellness Center membership and Community Education HEALTH5:30pm-7:30pm AND FITNESSFREE Monday 9/28 A non-contact boxing-based fitnessTowns program designed are to minimize 28 WOMEN’S 5:30pm-7:30pm FREE CHE CHE Scholarships, through the 5 Healthy Foundation, available

A non-contact boxing-based fitness program designed to minimize MUG PAINTING for Women’s Health & Fitness Day the effects of Parkinson’s disease andFor improve activities of daily individuals meeting financial criteria. more information, visit thetoeffects of Parkinson’s disease and improve activities of daily PELVIC FLOOR YOGA for Women’s Health & Fitness Day Join us for a fun creative evening! All materials are provided. living. All levels welcome! Please visit the Member Service Desk 5healthytowns.org or call the Center at 734-214-0220. LOOR YOGA for Women’s Health & Fitness Day ŐĞŶƚůĞ ǇŽŐĂ ĐůĂƐƐ ĨŽĐƵƐĞĚ ŽŶ ƐƚƌĞŶŐƚŚĞŶŝŶŐ ĂŶĚ ƌĞůĂǆŝŶŐ ƚŚĞ ƉĞůǀŝĐ living. All levels welcome! Please visit the Member Registration required. For more information or to register or call 734-214-0220 for more information or to register. Service Desk ŐĂ ĐůĂƐƐ ĨŽĐƵƐĞĚ ŽŶ ƐƚƌĞŶŐƚŚĞŶŝŶŐ ĂŶĚ ƌĞůĂǆŝŶŐ ƚŚĞ ƉĞůǀŝĐ ĨůŽŽƌ ǁŚŝůĞ ŝŵƉƌŽǀŝŶŐ ĐŽƌĞ ƐƚĂďŝůŝƚǇ͕ ŵŽďŝůŝƚǇ͕ ďƌĞĂƚŚŝŶŐ͕ ĂŶĚ ďŽĚǇ GROUP CLASSES visit the Member Service Desk or call 734-214-0220. Max 30 or SPECIALIZED Monday/Wednesday/Friday 1:30pm–3:00pm call 734-214-0220 for more information or to register. ĂǁĂƌĞŶĞƐƐ͘ ^ƵŝƚĂďůĞ ĨŽƌ Ăůů ĨŝƚŶĞƐƐ ůĞǀĞůƐ͘ ŵƉƌŽǀŝŶŐ ĐŽƌĞ ƐƚĂďŝůŝƚǇ͕ ŵŽďŝůŝƚǇ͕ ďƌĞĂƚŚŝŶŐ͕ ĂŶĚ ďŽĚǇ $129/month CHE participants. ROCK STEADY BOXING 1:30pm–3:00pm Monday/Wednesday/Friday Wednesday 3:30-4:30pm FREE DEX Monday 9/28 9/30 5:30pm-7:30pm FREE CHE A non-contact boxing-based fitness program designed to minimize ^ƵŝƚĂďůĞ ĨŽƌ Ăůů ĨŝƚŶĞƐƐ ůĞǀĞůƐ͘ OSTEO PILATES $129/month CHE the effects of Parkinson’s and improve activities of daily for PERIMENOPAUSE LECTURE This gentle yet effective disease Pilates class is designed specifically ay 9/30 3:30-4:30pm FREE Health &DEX PELVIC FLOOR YOGA for Women’s Fitness Day living. All PILATES levelswith welcome! Please visit the Member With Service Desk for Women’s Health & Fitness Day OSTEO individuals osteopenia and osteoporosis. a focus on ŐĞŶƚůĞ ǇŽŐĂ ĐůĂƐƐ ĨŽĐƵƐĞĚ ŽŶ ƐƚƌĞŶŐƚŚĞŶŝŶŐ ĂŶĚ ƌĞůĂǆŝŶŐ ƚŚĞ ƉĞůǀŝĐ

orposture, call 734-214-0220 forstability, more information or toalignment, register. you'll :ŽŝŶ ^ĂƌĂŚ ,ŽůĚĂ͕ EW͕ ƐƉĞĐŝĂůŝǌŝŶŐ ŝŶ ŵĞŶŽƉĂƵƐĞ͕ ĨŽƌ ĂŶ ŝŶĨŽƌŵĂƚŝǀĞ OPAUSE LECTURE core andclass safe spinal This gentlebalance, yet effective Pilates is designed specifically fo ĨůŽŽƌ ǁŚŝůĞ ŝŵƉƌŽǀŝŶŐ ĐŽƌĞ ƐƚĂďŝůŝƚǇ͕ ŵŽďŝůŝƚǇ͕ ďƌĞĂƚŚŝŶŐ͕ ĂŶĚ ďŽĚǇ Monday/Wednesday/Friday 1:30pm–3:00pm move through controlled exercises that help improve strength, ĚŝƐĐƵƐƐŝŽŶ ĂďŽƵƚ ǁŚĂƚ ƚŽ ĞǆƉĞĐƚ ĚƵƌŝŶŐ ƉĞƌŝŵĞŶŽƉĂƵƐĞ ĂŶĚ ƉƌĂĐƚŝĐĂů n’s Health & Fitness Day ĂǁĂƌĞŶĞƐƐ͘ ^ƵŝƚĂďůĞ ĨŽƌ Ăůů ĨŝƚŶĞƐƐ ůĞǀĞůƐ͘ individuals with osteopenia and osteoporosis. With a focus on $129/month CHE flexibility, and coordination. Registration Required. Please visit the ƐƚƌĂƚĞŐŝĞƐ ƚŽ ƐƵƉƉŽƌƚ ǇŽƵƌ ŚĞĂůƚŚ ĂŶĚ ǁĞůůͲďĞŝŶŐ ƚŚƌŽƵŐŚŽƵƚ ƚŚŝƐ Wednesday 9/30 3:30-4:30pm FREE DEX ,ŽůĚĂ͕ EW͕ ƐƉĞĐŝĂůŝǌŝŶŐ ŝŶ ŵĞŶŽƉĂƵƐĞ͕ ĨŽƌ ĂŶ ŝŶĨŽƌŵĂƚŝǀĞ posture, balance, core stability, and safe spinal alignment, MemberPILATES Service Desk or call 734-214-0220 for more informationyou'll ƚƌĂŶƐŝƚŝŽŶ͘ OSTEO move through exercises that helpspecifically improve strength, ďŽƵƚ ǁŚĂƚ ƚŽ ĞǆƉĞĐƚ ĚƵƌŝŶŐ ƉĞƌŝŵĞŶŽƉĂƵƐĞ ĂŶĚ ƉƌĂĐƚŝĐĂů or to register for a 5-week session. PERIMENOPAUSE Wednesday 9/30 LECTURE 5:30-6:30pm FREE DEX This gentle yet controlled effective Pilates class is designed for for Women’s Health & Fitness Day LEVEL 2*osteoporosis. LEVEL and coordination. Registration Required. visit individuals with osteopenia and With1a focusPlease on Thursday 10/29 5:30-6:30pm FREE CHE flexibility, Ž ƐƵƉƉŽƌƚ ǇŽƵƌ ŚĞĂůƚŚ ĂŶĚ ǁĞůůͲďĞŝŶŐ ƚŚƌŽƵŐŚŽƵƚ ƚŚŝƐ

:ŽŝŶ ^ĂƌĂŚ ,ŽůĚĂ͕ EW͕ ƐƉĞĐŝĂůŝǌŝŶŐ ŝŶ ŵĞŶŽƉĂƵƐĞ͕ ĨŽƌ ĂŶ ŝŶĨŽƌŵĂƚŝǀĞ Member Thursday 9/10-10/8 9:30am-10:45am posture, balance, core stability, and 734-214-0220 safe spinal10:45am–12:00pm alignment, Service Desk or call for you'll more informati Women’s Health & Fitness Day Thursday 10/22-11/19 9:30am-10:45am 10:45am–12:00pm move through controlled exercises that help improve strength, ĚŝƐĐƵƐƐŝŽŶ ĂďŽƵƚ ǁŚĂƚ ƚŽ ĞǆƉĞĐƚ ĚƵƌŝŶŐ ƉĞƌŝŵĞŶŽƉĂƵƐĞ ĂŶĚ ƉƌĂĐƚŝĐĂů or to register for a 5-week session. Women workout FREE at any Center ay 9/30 5:30-6:30pm FREE DEX * Level 2and requires InstructorRegistration approval. flexibility, coordination. Required. Please visit the ƐƚƌĂƚĞŐŝĞƐ ƚŽ ƐƵƉƉŽƌƚ ǇŽƵƌ ŚĞĂůƚŚ ĂŶĚ ǁĞůůͲďĞŝŶŐ ƚŚƌŽƵŐŚŽƵƚ ƚŚŝƐ Wednesday, September 30thFREE ! MEM: FREE NON-MEM: $95734-214-0220 CHE Member Service Desk or LEVEL call for more information 2* LEVEL 1 10/29ƚƌĂŶƐŝƚŝŽŶ͘ 5:30-6:30pm CHE Wednesday 9/30 FREE CHE/DEX/STK or to register for a 5-week session. Wednesday 9/30 5:30-6:30pm FREE DEX Thursday 9/10-10/8 9:30am-10:45am 10:45am–12:00pm Health & Fitness 2* LEVEL 10:45am–12:00pm 1 Thursday 10/29 Day 5:30-6:30pm FREE CHE Thursday 10/22-11/19LEVEL 9:30am-10:45am

orkoutWomen’s FREE atHealth any Center & Fitness Day y, September 30th! FREE at any Center Women workout Wednesday, September 30th! FREE ay 9/30 Wednesday 9/30

32 | 5healthytowns.org

Thursday 9/10-10/8 9:30am-10:45am * Level 2 requires Instructor approval. Thursday 10/22-11/19 9:30am-10:45am

CHE/DEX/STK

FREE

CHE/DEX/STK

MEM: FREE NON-MEM: $95 * Level 2 requires Instructor approval. MEM: FREE NON-MEM: $95

10:45am–12:00pm 10:45am–12:00pm

CHE

SMALL GROUP CLASSES

REFORMER PILATES

INTRO TO ROWING

Reformer Pilates is performed on an intelligently designed piece of equipment with a system of springs and pulleys to provide resistance. Reformer Pilates is a full body workout that builds balanced strength and flexibility and aligns the body to allow you to do whatever else you want to do more efficiently. It can be modified to fit any body at any age or stage of life. Please visit the Dexter Wellness Center Member Service Desk or call 734-580-2500 for more information on sessions/prices.

WOMEN ON WEIGHTS

Our female-focused class is designed to introduce you to the Fitness Floor & weightlifting techniques that will help you get stronger in the right way. Led by our fitness specialist Lis Cordeiro , this class will provide you with instruction on proper form, technique, and a variety of lifts for each muscle group. The aim is to make you feel more comfortable and confident when training in the free weight area of our Wellness Center. Registration required. Please visit the Member Service Desk or call 734-214-0220 for more info or to register. Tuesday 9/8-9/29 12:00pm–12:45pm Tuesday 10/13-11/3 12:00pm–12:45pm MEM $82 NON-MEM $90 CHE

LIFT AND LEARN

This class is designed to introduce you to the Fitness Floor & weightlifting techniques that will help you get stronger in the right way. Led by our fitness specialist Phillip Campbell, this class will provide you with instruction on proper form, technique, and a variety of lifts for each muscle group. The aim is to make you feel more comfortable and confident when training in the free weight area of our Wellness Center. Registration required. Please visit the Member Service Desk or call 734-214-0220 for more info or to register. Friday 9/11-10/2 11:00pm–11:45pm MEM $82 NON-MEM $90 CHE

GAME ON!

Get ready for fun, fitness, and friendly competition! Game On! is a 45-minute action-packed class designed for kids in 3rd–5th grade who love to move and play. Each week features a mix of gymstyle games, team challenges, and active exercises that build strength, coordination, and teamwork while developing confidence, and a love for staying active in a supportive upbeat environment. Registration required. Please visit the Member Service Desk or call 734-580-2500 for more information or to register. Thursday 9/10-10/15 4:15pm–5:00pm MEM $96 NON-MEM $106 DEX

PELVIC FLOOR HEALTH CLASS

Join fitness specialist Lis Cordeiro to gain helpful insights into managing symptoms, preventing issues, and better understanding your body so you can take control of your pelvic health. This vital, but often overlooked, aspect of well-being affects both men and women. This class is ideal for anyone looking to improve core health, reduce discomfort, and build a stronger foundation for movement and daily life. Registration required. Please visit the Member Service Desk or call 734-214-0220 for more information or to register. Tuesday 9/15-10/6 1:00pm-2:00pm Tuesday 10/20-11/10 1:00pm-2:00pm MEM $84 NON-MEM $92 CHE

This class is perfect for beginners who want to learn how to use a rowing machine. You’ll discover the basics of proper technique, adjusting resistance and how to get the most out of your rowing workout rowing into your fitness Registration Required. Sign up for 5-week sessions at the front desk, or call 734-580-2500. Monday 10/12-11/9 10:00am–10:30am MEM $140 NON-MEM $160 DEX

ROWING STRONG

This class is designed for those who are familiar with rowing and want to take their workout to the next level. You’ll build on your basic technique while focusing on increasing strength, speed and endurance. Expect a high energy, full body workout that will challenge your stamina, power and form. Registration Required. Sign up at the front desk, or call 734-580-2500. Monday 10/12- 11/9 10:30am–11:15am MEM $160 NON-MEM $180 DEX

STRENGTHENING YOUR POSTURE

Improve your posture and reduce or prevent chronic back pain. This 6-week session, that meets twice a week will focus on strengthening your back, shoulder, and core muscles, which are all essential to standing with proper posture and preventing lower back pain. Registration Required. Please visit the Member Service Desk or call 734-580-2500 for more information or to register for the 6-week session. Tuesday & Thursday 11/3-12/15 * 10:30am–11:30am MEM $228 NON-MEM $264 DEX *No class 11/26

AQUA SMALL GROUP CLASSES ADULT SWIM TUNE UP

A one-time swim tune up session for adults focused on refining stroke technique, improving efficiency, and gaining personalized feedback to enhance your performance in the pool. Registration Required. Please visit the Member Service Desk or call 734580-2500 for more information or to register. Tuesday 9/15 5:00pm–6:00pm Tuesday 10/20 5:00pm–6:00pm Tuesday 11/17 5:00pm–6:00pm Tuesday 12/15 5:00pm–6:00pm MEM $20 NON-MEM $30 DEX

AQUA BOARD FITNESS CLASSES

Take your fitness to a new level with our Aqua Board classes. These small group classes offer a total body workout that focus on using core stability to improve balance, mobility, strength, flexibility, and endurance. Registration Required. Please visit the Member Service Desk or call 734-580-2500 for more information or to register for a 4-week session. Aqua Board Circuit Tuesday 9/29-10/20 11:45am-12:45pm Tuesday 10/27-11/17 11:45am-12:45pm MEM $104 NON-MEM $112 DEX

CHILDREN’S SWIM CLASSES

We offer a variety of children’s swim lessons designed to help kids build confidence and learn water safety skills in a fun and supportive environment. Current class options include Water Babies, Pre-K Parent, and Levels 1–3 for beginner swimmers. . Please visit the Member Service Desk at the centers or call 734-214-0220 for Chelsea or 734-580-2500 for Dexter for more info or to register.

Fall/Winter 2026 | 33

MORE THAN A Meeting Place

How Senior Centers Foster Belonging Written by 5 Healthy Towns Foundation staff

In the 5 healthy towns region, we are lucky to have vibrant senior centers in each community. The recent growth of our senior centers demonstrates they are much more than places to gather—they are community hubs where people find purpose, laughter, and support. Most offer physical activity classes, field trips and local travel, hobbies and leisure activities, and meals. Special events include guest presentations, tax preparation assistance, grief support and dementia friendly programs and services. Senior centers also provide opportunities for lifelong learning, creative expression, and giving back to the community. Many participants discover new hobbies, develop lasting friendships, and become mentors and volunteers, enriching both their own lives and the lives of others. As adults age, staying socially connected becomes just as important as staying physically healthy. Senior centers play a vital role in helping older adults build friendships, stay active, and maintain a strong sense of belonging. Regular social interaction has been linked to better mental and physical health. Older adults who participate in group activities are less likely to experience loneliness, depression, and social isolation. Whether it's sharing a meal, joining an exercise class, learning a new skill, volunteering, or simply enjoying conversation over coffee, these everyday connections make a meaningful difference. 34 34 32 | 5healthytowns.org

Chelsea – chelseaseniors.org – “I love that there are five, thriving senior centers within 25 miles of each other who actively engage older adults. Each center is unique and reflects the interests and needs of seniors living within that community. What a great time to be aging AND an older adult in the 5 healthy towns region!” ~ Jennifer Smith Dexter – dexterseniors.org “For more than 50 years, Dexter Senior Center operated in spaces that limited what we could offer. When our community invested in creating a center that reflected the needs of older adults, membership nearly quadrupled in just over a year. The growth taught us that many older adults are looking for opportunities to connect and belong, but they need a welcoming place to do it. As the saying goes, if you build it, they will come.” ~ Anna Pekrul Grass Lake – grasslakeseniors.org – “At the Grass Lake Senior Center, we believe that belonging is the foundation of healthy aging. By bringing people together to learn, laugh, volunteer, and support one another, we create a community where every older adult feels connected, valued, and empowered to live life to the fullest." ~ Christie Lypka Manchester – manchesterseniors.org - “One of the greatest joys of my work is creating meaningful experiences that bring seniors together, build friendships, and help them feel connected to their community.” ~ Holly McDermott Stockbridge – stockbridgeareaseniors.org - Since our ribbon cutting in 2022, the Stockbridge Area Senior Center (SASC) has blossomed. Starting with generous foundation grants and support, we have matured with our diverse Board of Directors, united by our MISSION to grow SASC into a community to "promote, educate, and offer activities for the emotional well-being of the Stockbridge Area senior citizens and their families. Perhaps most importantly, senior centers remind people that they are not alone. Every Day is a GOLD STAR DAY!” ~ Rachel Stanley Local senior centers create welcoming spaces where everyone is valued, included, and encouraged to stay engaged with the world around them. In a time when social isolation is recognized as a significant health concern, investing in senior centers is an investment in healthier, happier, and more connected communities. Sometimes, the greatest benefit a senior center offers isn't a program or activity, it's the simple comfort of knowing there's a place where you belong.

Discover why more families are choosing Stockbridge Community Schools, where students are known, supported, and prepared for success. HIGH QUALITY TEACHING STAFF Pre-K through 12th grade research based teaching practices & learning opportunities in a supportive, close-knit community. HALF/FULL DAY EARLY CHILDHOOD OPTIONS Early childhood programs that help young learners build a strong foundation with before and after school care. PERSONAL ATTENTION Individualized support services and specialized instruction to help every student succeed. DIVERSE OPPORTUNITES AP courses, career tech education, robotics, FFA, travel abroad, athletics, and the arts.

Small-town values. Big opportunities. Real results. ENROLL TODAY

WWW.PANTHERNET.NET

5 Healthy Towns Foundation recognizes the important partnerships we have with our senior centers and funds a variety of initiatives. For more information, contact the senior centers directly. Fall/Winter 2026 | 35

WORKING WELL CASE STUDIES Written by 5 Healthy Towns Foundation staff

Working Well helps employers achieve a culture of wellness and support their employee health goals. These organizations have taken steps toward employee health and well-being. Join them!

MANCHESTER COMMUNITY SCHOOLS Schools are busy places, and teachers and staff don’t always have time to focus on their own well-being. A simple daily email, coordinated by the district’s school nurse, is a strategy to keep wellness front and center for employees in a fun way. It began with the 12 days of wellness in December and then rolled into a special monthly theme with resources. January was wellness bingo; February was Love Month including appreciation shout outs and healthy recipe swaps. The wellness ambassador, a person designated to coordinate wellness activities and information, even created a March Madness bracket wellness style and followed with resources for Stress Awareness Month and Mental Health Awareness Month.

TIMBER CREEK COUNSELING 36 | 5healthytowns.org 36

Therapists experience an unusual combination of emotionally taxing work and a reasonable amount of downtime during the workday. The key to maintaining mental stability is to make efficient use of these free hours, whether that be by completing paperwork or taking the opportunity to recharge. Promoting a culture of well-being helps staff to take their own initiative. One staff member spearheaded a screen-time challenge to help employees think critically about screen time usage and consider the ways in which screen time enriches or impedes well-being. Another employee brings fruits and vegetables to share so that healthy snacks are available onsite. It has been amazing to see the impact that a simple, mindful choice for wellness can have on the outcome and outlook of a day.

CHELSEA SENIOR CENTER CSC was awarded special recognition by Michigan Department of Health and Human Services in 2024 as a Healthy Worksite. Since that time, they have embraced wellness together through a series of fun and creative activities to keep employees engaged in wellness and strengthen their team. For Move More March, their step challenge created incentives for employees to move more and each week they exceeded their team goals. A picnic potluck and recipe swap is planned to support healthy eating. These wellness activities have encouraged healthy choices, built stronger connections, and served as a reminder that taking care of yourself is even better when it’s done as a team.

To join Working Well and become a Wellness Ambassador for your company, visit www.onebigconnection.org/action-teams/working-well/

Schedule a free trial class today!

ENROLL TODAY e

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make it manchester COME DANCE WITH US! Ballet • Hip Hop • Tap Contemporary • Jazz

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Toddlers to Adults 734-475-3070 info@balletchelsea.org 1050 S Main St. Chelsea, MI

MANCHESTERSCHOOLS.US Fall/Winter 2026 37 | 37

Where

Everyone Everyone Knows Knows Your Name Your Name Old guys eating donuts. Families volunteering at their house of worship. Students studying at a library. These activities don’t really stand out. There’s nothing particularly noticeable about me writing this article from a coffee shop. However, they do share a common bond – a third place important to every one of those people. Isolation and loneliness have emerged as a leading cause of poor health and well-being. Research by Dr. Vivek Murthy says loneliness is as bad for our well–being as smoking fifteen cigarettes daily. The effects of isolation and loneliness are one of the reasons 5 Healthy Towns Foundation, Chelsea Hospital, Michigan Medicine, Washtenaw County Community Mental Health, and the VA meet once a month for One Big Thing meetings. Almost 25% of 5 Healthy Towns survey respondents don’t feel they get the social support they need on a regular basis.

38 | 5healthytowns.org 38

Written by 5 Healthy Towns Foundation staff

Third places are places outside of work or home where people can act freely. Luckily our region is full of places people can use as their third place. For many people, visiting one of the Wellness Centers or a local gym is more than an exercise in exercise. It’s a place where people get together to support their health goals and talk about their lives. Stockbridge Teen Center and our local libraries have programs for people of all ages, providing opportunities to learn, connect, and share common interests. A third place can also be more than brick or mortar. Every one of our service areas has at least one farmers’ market. They serve as more than a place to get fresh produce. They all have entertainment; most have educational opportunities and the feedback we receive from the markets indicate their role as a gathering place is as important as their role as markets. Despite these efforts, we still have work to do. At least 12% of respondents from four of our five towns indicated they weren’t involved in anything in their community. That number jumps above 25% in Grass Lake and Stockbridge, respectively. Sometimes people want to go where everyone knows their name. Invite your neighbor to your weekly book club. Post volunteer opportunities on OneBigConnection.org. Enjoy pick-up games at one of the local parks. We can all introduce someone to our third place and provide them with an opportunity to connect. If you ever see me at my local coffee shop, feel free to pull up a seat. www.reallygreatsite.com

Meet Claire Smith

5HF is pleased to offer another internship for the full 2026-2027 academic year to support the One Big Thing initiative and community outreach in the Village of Stockbridge. Working closely with the OBT Core Team, Claire will focus on development of the OBT Logic Model, the quarterly Leadership Community Meetings, and supporting community outreach for the Open Air Market, Stockbridge Community Outreach, and Stockbridge Area Senior Center. “Hi, I’m Claire Smith and I’m excited to join the Five Healthy Towns Foundation as an intern. I received a Bachelor of Science in History, Philosophy, and Sociology of Science with a minor in Health Promotion from Michigan State University in 2023 and previously worked as a data analyst. I’m looking forward to combining my experience with data and my passion for mental and public health to support meaningful, community focused initiatives. I enjoy baking, listening to music, gardening, making collages, playing video games, and cuddling with my cats!”

Chelsea Community Foundation leads and collaborates to bring permanent, positive change in Chelsea through thoughtful giving, strong long-term investment, and grantmaking support of local efforts guided by community leaders.

Since 1995 More than $2.2 Million Granted In Support of Chelsea Organizations In the Following Categories: Arts and Culture - $400,000 Health, Wellness, and Aging - $650,000 Trails, Parks, and Transportation - $450,000 Youth and Education - $700,000

Ballet Chelsea photo by Michael Bessom

Your support helps establish a lasting legacy for Chelsea. When you give to the Chelsea Community Foundation, your gift, combined with others, can multiply the positive effect on our community for generations to come.

Ready to JOIN THE

FUN? Lunch Served Daily Senior Resources Dance & Exercise Classes Games ALL DAY—

(Bingo/Euchre/Skipbo & More)

517-522-8466

Grass Lake Senior Center Tues-Fri • 10 - 3:30 373 Lakeside Drive • Grass Lake

GRASSLAKESENIORS.ORG

Contact us to find your best way to join us in making an impact. chelsea@cfsem.org Learn more, subscribe to our newsletter chelseafoundation.org Fall/Winter 2026 | 39

In May, 5 Healthy Towns Foundation and the 5HF Wellness Centers launched the first ever Wellness Connection social media campaign. Designed in partnership with Chelsea Hospital Nutrition Department and Timber Creek Foundation, this free 8-week program was designed to connect participants to their wellness goals, and to the many resources that support strong wellness habits.

The Wellness Connection Written by 5 Healthy Towns Foundation staff

Participants received a free goodie bag that included walking maps, a wellness journal, and more. Each weekly theme explored a dimension of well-being and provided inspiration and tools to help participants build sustainable healthy habits. The themes and goodie bags were supported by weekly wellness videos featuring Chelsea Wellness Center Fitness Supervisor Liam Hartsuff and other guest speakers including Nicole Derderian, RD, and Andrew Cuthbert, PsyD. The video clips averaged 477 views each and viewers watched almost 12 hours of video. The Wellness Connection marks a renewed effort by 5HF and our Wellness Centers to provide all community members opportunities to utilize our services to help meet their wellness needs.

Said Steve Petty, 5HF CEO, “The Wellness Connection was a visible outreach campaign designed to engage people to establish healthy habits that are easily integrated into everyday routines.” Follow 5 Healthy Towns on Facebook and Instagram for updates about the next Wellness Connection activity and to view Liam’s videos. You can learn more about Wellness Center community programming by turning to page 32 of this edition of Connected.

40 | 5healthytowns.org

If you would like a copy of the Wellness Connection journal to help you set your wellness goals and track your progress, contact Lori@5healthytowns.org.

Meet the Memmers Larry and Nancy’s story is rooted in family, service, and a deep connection to Grass Lake. Married for 46 years, they have lived in eight cities, raised four daughters, and now enjoy a growing family of eight grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. In 2016, Larry returned to his hometown of Grass Lake -fifty years after leaving—alongside Nancy, beginning a new chapter of local involvement. In March 2023, Larry helped start the Grass Lake Kiwanis Club. Though small, the club is active and committed to Kiwanis’ central focus: supporting youth. Nancy extends that commitment as adviser to the Key Club, helping high school students develop leadership skills and a lasting commitment to community service. Larry’s Kiwanis involvement spans 18 years at the local, district, and international levels. He serves as membership chair for the Michigan District of Kiwanis, while also serving as president of the Grass Lake Chamber of Commerce. His community work includes Grass Lake Alumni Association, 5 Healthy Towns, and the Festival of Lights. Nancy brings the same spirit to her own interests. An avid quilter, she makes donation quilts for both the Howell Quilt Guild and Preemie Pals in Saline, Michigan. Both Larry and Nancy stay busy with committees, community events, and their church. Together, they show that community is strengthened through personal involvement. From mentoring leaders to organizing celebrations and lending time wherever is needed. They have made Grass Lake not just the place Larry came from, but the place where their shared commitment continues to make a difference.

WE’RE HERE

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In-person and remote mental health therapy (734) 519-1724

CONTACT@MIRECOVERYPLC.COM

SCAN ME

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Fall/Winter 2026 | 41

Empowering Adults to Support Youth Mental Health Written by Ursula Anderson

Today’s teens are navigating unprecedented pressures, from academic demands and social challenges to concerns about mental health and substance use. One of the most powerful protective factors in a young person’s life is a strong relationship with a trusted, informed adult. That is the inspiration behind SRSLY Dexter’s Be the Anchor campaign, created to equip parents, caregivers, educators, coaches, and other caring adults with practical, evidence-based resources to help navigate difficult conversations and support youth well-being. Being an anchor doesn’t mean having all the answers. Rather, it means staying informed, showing up consistently, and creating a safe, supportive presence so young people know they never have to face challenges alone. Developed through collaboration between Dexter teens and Dexter adults who interact closely with youth, including parents, teachers, and social workers, Be the Anchor was shaped by conversations about the challenges teens are experiencing in their daily lives. Together, they identified important topics affecting young people in our community to create a central hub of evidence-based resources.

Resources include a Mental Health Resource Guide with local and national support services; Anxiety: Typical or Something More? to help adults recognize when stress may require additional support; Combating Toxic Overachievement, which encourages healthy achievement over perfectionism; Eating Disorders: Definitions and What to Do; How to Talk to Your Teen About Alcohol; Vaping 101; and Cannabis: What Does Responsible Adult Use Look Like?, offering research-based information and conversation starters to help adults navigate these topics with confidence. SRSLY Dexter welcomes community members to help spread awareness of these resources by displaying a Be the Anchor sign featuring a QR code that links directly to the site. To request a free sign, email srslydexter1@gmail.com. Through outreach, education, and community connection, SRSLY Dexter continues its commitment to building a healthier community where young people feel supported, and every adult feels empowered to make a difference in a teen’s life.

Available at linktr.ee/BeTheAnchor, the site features practical guides on many youth mental health and well-being concerns. To connect with SRSLY Dexter: Website: www.srslydexter.org Be the Anchor: linktr.ee/BeTheAnchor Email: srslydexter1@gmail.com Instagram: @srslydx_community Facebook: SRSLY Dexter

42 | 5healthytowns.org 42

Fall/Winter 2026 |43 43

SHARED GRANT MAKING INSPIRES BIGGER EFFORTS Written by 5 Healthy Towns Foundation staff

The One Big Thing (OBT) initiative, launched in 2019 with commitments from 5 Healthy Towns Foundation (5HF), Chelsea Hospital, Michigan Medicine, and Washtenaw County Community Mental Health, established a strong foundation for working together in a different way. In 2025, OBT introduced shared grant making, which helped move our work beyond supporting individual programs and instead, investing in vital conditions necessary for wellness. Our goal is to implement funding approaches that strengthen social belonging for all residents. Investing in grassroots, locally led efforts that reinforce one or more of the vital conditions for health, especially in rural areas and underserved communities, is an approach that 5HF committed to over 15 years ago. Our wellness coalitions in each of the five towns make decisions about grants and programs that meet local needs. Those efforts now position us to translate new ideas into larger actionable strategies. According to the ReThink Health model of shared stewardship, working differently requires all of us— across sectors and communities—to invest in the vital conditions, strengthen belonging and civic muscle, promote fairness in system design and practice, and ensure that urgent services are adequate enough to meet immediate needs. 44 | 5healthytowns.org 44

One Big Connection Examples include: A small sponsorship grant for dementia-friendly services in Chelsea has now grown to a larger impact grant supporting dementia-friendly training in all five towns. Chelsea and Dexter are leading the way to improving their community culture to make life easier for those living with dementia. A transportation grant supporting WAVE addresses transportation needs in our region, and an additional grant included vouchers distributed by local health professionals has helped many individuals in the service area. Ballet Chelsea’s Adaptive Movement program brings important activities to individuals with physical challenges because they don’t have ready access to services in the community. An impact grant to address cyber safety has expanded to include in-person digital safety workshops for youth in all five school districts. 5HF appreciates its community partners and their collaboration in making these grants available. To learn more, go to onebigconnection.org/grants/

TIME TO RELAX 6 RELAXING THINGS TO DO OUTSIDE WITHOUT A SCREEN

PICNIC IN THE PARK

ENJOY HOT CHOCOLATE BY THE FIRE PIT

GO FOR A NATURE WALK

STAR GAZE

ICE SKATING

MAKE A SNOW ANGEL

Fall/Winter 2026 | 45

Celebrating

A FABULOUS FEAST

Grass Lake IN

Written by Mitzi Koors, Grass Lake Market

There was something special about gathering around a table filled with fresh, local food while overlooking beautiful Grass Lake. This year, we celebrated the 11th Annual 5 Healthy Towns Farm to Table Fabulous Feast, and Grass Lake did not dissapoint. More than 150 guests enjoyed an evening of exceptional food, live music, community, and lakeside charm. The “Farm Picnic by the Lake” theme created a relaxed atmosphere that celebrated the best of local agriculture and small-town hospitality.

46 | 5healthytowns.org

The experience began the moment guests arrived, with a freshly crafted welcome juice made from locally grown ingredients; a refreshing toast to the harvest season. From there, guests strolled through the silent auction, visited with friends, and enjoyed the beautiful lakeside setting. Local favorite Banjo Mike provided live music throughout the evening while serving as master of ceremonies. The menu highlighted the flavors of late summer with dishes inspired by local farms and seasonal ingredients. Guests enjoyed appetizers including local pimento cheese hush puppies topped with spicy mayonnaise and roasted pepper piperade served over an Ernst Farm polenta cake. The family-style dinner featured bacon-wrapped pork tenderloin with apple chutney, herb-roasted chicken thighs, roasted corn succotash, creamy buttermilk mashed potatoes, and warm cowboy butter for dipping. Every course was thoughtfully prepared to celebrate Michigan’s harvest while showcasing the quality of locally sourced ingredients. More than just a memorable dinner, the Fabulous Feast is the signature fundraiser for 5 Healthy Towns-supported farmers markets, dedicated to building healthier communities by improving access to healthy food and community wellness. Each year, 5HF partners with the farmers markets in Chelsea, Dexter, Grass Lake, Manchester, and Stockbridge to strengthen local food systems and expand fresh food access throughout the region. The Foundation and its community wellness coalitions grant $5000 to the event. Many local businesses co-sponsor the event and proceeds from the evening directly benefit these community markets. Whether you came for the incredible food, the music, the lakeside setting, or simply to support local farmers and your community, the Farm to Table Fabulous Feast was an evening to remember.

The 12th Annual 5 Healthy Towns Farm to Table Fabulous Feast will be hosted in Chelsea in 2027. Stay tuned for details. Fall/Winter 2026 |47 47

Locals are caught making healthy choices all around our communities ...

Caught ACT IN THE

Enjoying one of our playgrounds.

Winter Wonderland

48 | 5healthytowns.org

Eat Better at the Manchester Chicken Broil.

Manchester Ride your Bike to School Day.

5HF intern Lee at the Farmers Market

Stockbridge family enjoying the outdoor gym at Veteran’s Park.

Getting ready for Halloween.

Circuit group - having fun while getting fit.

Cardmaking at the Chelsea Senior Center

The 2025 Walk To End Alzheimer’s

Fall/Winter 2026 | 49

How How Generations Generations Came Came Together Together to to Build Build aa Playground Playground Written by Written by 55 Healthy Towns Foundation Foundation staff staff As an important vision element, 5 Healthy Towns Foundation (5HF) often talks about building playgrounds for all ages and abilities to promote moving more. When 5HF partners on a park, trail, or playground, our goal is to impact as many people as possible. The City of Manchester is partnering with KABOOM! to bring different ages together to do just that.

would be excited to see. The second session provided adults, especially those who frequent MASCC, the same opportunity. 27 adults attended the second session and shared what they would love to see in the future and some of their fondest play experiences as youth.

On July 8, the City of Manchester, in partnership with Manchester Area Senior Citizens Council (MASCC), hosted two visioning sessions to help better define what new outdoor recreation facilities could look like in their community. The first session was attended by more than 30 teens and pre-teens, who weighed in on what they

“Our partnership with KABOOM! came at a perfect time,” said Pat Vailliencourt, City of Manchester mayor. “This new playspace will give kids a safe place to run and jump and help promote physical activity for everyone.”

50 | 5healthytowns.org

KABOOM! was founded thirty years ago with the vision that every child in every community would have the same opportunity to fully enjoy a childhood filled with places to play. This is the second time KABOOM! has partnered with Manchester. In 2021, the Village received about $41,000 from KABOOM! and Robert Wood Johnson Foundation to install several play features along the length of the Shared Use Trail. This included the stopwatch and climbing wall in Chi-Bro Park, the Painted Turtle climber at River Raisin Park, and the musical instruments next to the City Offices. The collaborative effort didn’t stop with planning. A team of Manchester volunteers put the planning process into action as more than 65 volunteers met at the City office project on August 25-27 for a community build. Volunteers and City of Manchester staff came together to turn an empty space formerly home to a Ford Motor Company building into a playground featuring obstacles, exercise equipment and more. A second phase of improvements will be built next to the MASCC patio adjacent to the river. The improvements will include game tables, cornhole boards, and an updated patio setting.

shape your

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734.428.9711 ext. 1139 710 E. Main St • Manchester

sites.google.com/mcs.k12.mi.us/manchesterwellnesscenter/home

Fall/Winter 2026 | 51

WALK THIS WAY

HOW COMMUNITIES MAKE IT EASIER TO FIND YOUR STRIDE Written by 5 Healthy Towns Foundation staff

Walkability. This word is thrown around quite a bit in professional circles, and it seems like a forthright concept. Walkability is generally defined as a community’s ability to walk to amenities safely. The past year has seen walkability evolve from concept to action in our communities. Earlier this summer the City of Chelsea launched Walk Chelsea. The Walk Chelsea initiative is a program designed to gather input from residents on sidewalks, crossings and accessibility priorities throughout the city. Walk Chelsea uses walking audits, town halls, and surveys to highlight concerns and help shape Chelsea’s future sidewalk improvements. People interested in participating can follow the City’s Facebook page for more information. 20 minutes north, the Village of Stockbridge and Stockbridge Community Schools completed a project to connect Stockbridge Junior/Senior High School to Veteran’s Park. The beautiful, wooded pathway skirts past SCS’s Honeycrisp Apple Orchard and then winds its way to Veteran’s Park. Funded largely through the Ingham County Parks and Recreation Commission’s Parks and Trails Millage, the pathway will allow walkers easier access to neighborhoods, the local library, restaurants and more.

52 | 5healthytowns.org

Finally, Chelsea, Grass Lake, Manchester, and Stockbridge are all in various stages of Safe Routes to School planning. The planning process for Safe Routes to School is similar to Walk Chelsea. Community members – especially students, parents and administrators – have an opportunity to select priority routes connecting to local school buildings. We look at safety, missing connections, the speed along walking routes, and more. This information is used to develop action plans and apply for significant grant funding from the Michigan Department of Transportation and Michigan Fitness Foundation. Chelsea is currently working on their grant application, Grass Lake and Stockbridge just concluded their planning process and will begin working on their applications, while Manchester will begin their planning process this fall.

EXCITING NEWS!

We are pleased to announce our new Chapel and Performing Arts Center! Visit ChelseaRetirementCommunity.org to learn more or call 734.593.1837 to schedule a tour! Chelsea Retirement Community | 805 W Middle St, Chelsea, MI 48118 Fall/Winter 2026 | 53

& NATURE’S INVITATION TO SLOW DOWN Written by Melissa Sunderman, DO

As summer fades and Michigan begins its annual transformation into a landscape of fiery reds, golden yellows, and eventually quiet blankets of snow, many of us instinctively head indoors. We trade hiking boots for slippers and fresh air for more time in front of screens. Yet these changing seasons may offer some of nature's greatest opportunities for healing. As a Lifestyle Medicine physician, I often tell my patients something that surprises them nature doesn't stop being medicine when the temperature drops. In many ways, fall and winter invite us to experience it even more deeply.

Our bodies were designed to live in harmony with the rhythms of the natural world. Just as the trees release their leaves and the forests grow quiet before new growth emerges in the spring, we also benefit from periods of reflection, restoration, and renewal. Nature isn't asking us to hibernate. It's inviting us to reconnect. Science continues to confirm what many of us intuitively feel after spending time outdoors. Time in nature can reduce stress, improve mood, lower blood pressure, support immune function, sharpen focus, and increase feelings of happiness and connection. These benefits don't disappear with the first frost. They simply take on a different form. Autumn is an invitation to slow down. Take a walk through a canopy of colorful leaves. Listen to the crunch beneath your feet. Breathe in the crisp air. Notice the changing light. These simple moments of awe help quiet our busy minds and remind us to be present.

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When winter arrives, instead of asking, "How can I avoid the cold?" try asking, "How can I experience it?" Bundle up for a snowy walk through your neighborhood. Explore a local nature preserve after a fresh snowfall. Try snowshoeing or cross-country skiing. Watch birds gather outside your window with a warm cup of tea in your hands. You don't have to climb a mountain to experience nature's healing power. As "Doctor Outdoors," I often encourage people to think of nature the same way they think about exercise. We don't wait until we're motivated to move our bodies. We build habits that keep us healthy. Nature deserves the same place in our daily routine. Even ten or fifteen minutes outside can become a powerful investment in your physical, mental, and emotional well-being.

The trees, trails, lakes, and snowy landscapes of Michigan have something to teach us every single day. They remind us that rest is part of growth, that resilience is built through every season, and that we are healthiest when we reconnect with the world that has always been our home.

Fall/Winter 2026 | 55

! s y a CHILI5 W CHILI

As Michigan gently eases us from the crisp days of fall into the colder months of winter, many of us find ourselves craving a hearty, warming bowl of chili. Whether you like it classic and comforting or bold and full of new flavors, chili has a way of bringing people together. Since variety is the spice of life, we’ve gathered five delicious recipes to suit every palate—from classic favorites to unique twists on this beloved comfort food.

TURKEY AND SWEET POTATO CHILI DIRECTIONS

INGREDIENTS 1lb 93% lean ground turkey 1 teaspoon salt 1/2 cup chopped onion 3 cloves garlic crushed 10 ounce can Rotel mild tomatoes with green chilies 8 ounce can tomato sauce 3/4 cup water 1/2 tsp cumin 1/4 tsp chili powder 1/4 tsp paprika 1 bay leaf 1 medium sweet potato peeled & diced into 1/2-inch cubes (about 8 oz) Fresh cilantro for garnish

Stove Top: Spray a large skillet with oil and heat over medium-high heat. When hot, add the turkey and cook, breaking it up as it cooks into smaller pieces and season with 1 teaspoon of salt. When meat is browned and cooked through, add onion and garlic; cook 3 minutes over medium heat. Add the can of Rotel tomatoes, sweet potato, tomato sauce, water, cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt and bay leaf. Cover and simmer over medium-low heat until potatoes are soft and cooked through, about 25 minutes stirring occasionally. Add 1/4 cup more water if needed. Remove bay leaf and serve. Top with Cheese, sour cream.

NUTRIENTS IN 1 CUP Serving: 1 cup, Calories: 235kcal, Carbohydrates: 14g, Protein: 23g, Fat: 8g, Saturated Fat: 1g, Cholesterol: 81mg, Sodium: 578mg, Fiber: 2g, Sugar: 4g

INGREDIENTS

1 tablespoon vegetable oil 1 cup chopped onion ½ cup chopped green bell pepper ½ cup chopped yellow bell pepper 1 clove garlic, minced 1 pound ground turkey 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes

PUMPKIN DIRECTIONS TURKEY CHILI

2 cups pumpkin puree 1 ½ tablespoons chili powder or more to taste ½ teaspoon ground black pepper 1 dash salt ½ cup shredded Cheddar cheese ½ cup sour cream

Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion, green bell pepper, yellow bell pepper, and garlic; cook and stir until tender. Stir in turkey and cook until evenly brown; drain. Mix in tomatoes and pumpkin. Season with chili powder, pepper, and salt. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer 15 to 20 minutes. Serve topped with Cheddar cheese and sour cream.

NUTRIENTS IN 1 CUP 56 | 5healthytowns.org

Serving: 1 cup Per serving: Calories 285, Carbohydrates 15g, Fiber 6g, Sugar 7g, Protein 2g, Fat 17g, Saturated Fat 7 g, Cholesterol 76mg, Vitamin C 42 mg, Sodium 321 mg, Calcium 172mg, Iron4 mg, Potassium 401 mg.

WHITE CHICKEN CHILI INGREDIENTS Ingredients 1 tablespoon olive oil 3 skinless, boneless chicken breast halves 1 large onion, chopped 2 cloves garlic, minced 5 ¼ cups chicken broth 3 (15 ounce) cans cannellini beans, rinsed and drained 2 (4 ounce) cans chopped green chiles 1 tablespoon dried oregano 1 teaspoon ground cumin 2 pinches cayenne pepper, or to taste ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro, or to taste ½ cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese, or to taste Salt to taste

INGREDIENTS 2 pounds lean ground beef 1 onion diced 1 jalapeño seeded and finely diced 4 cloves garlic minced 2½ tablespoons chili powder divided, or to taste 1 teaspoon cumin 1 green bell pepper seeded and diced 1 14.5 ounce can of crushed tomatoes 1 19 ounce can of red kidney beans drained and rinsed 1 14.5 ounce can of diced tomatoes with juices 1½ cups beef broth 1 cup beer (beer can be replaced with extra broth) 1 tablespoon tomato paste 1 tablespoon brown sugar optional Salt and black pepper to taste

DIRECTIONS Heat olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium heat. Cook chicken, onion, and garlic in hot oil until chicken is browned on both sides, about 5 minutes. Transfer chicken to a cutting board; cut into 1-inch pieces. Return chicken pieces to the Dutch oven. Add chicken broth, cannellini beans, green chiles, oregano, cumin, and cayenne pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until the chicken is cooked through, for 30 to 40 minutes. Divide cilantro among 4 bowls. Ladle chili over cilantro and top with cheese. Season with salt to serve.

NUTRIENTS IN 1 CUP Serving: 1 cup, Per serving: Calories 466, Carbohydrates 539, Fiber 14g, Sugars 5g, Protein 35g, Fat 12g, Saturated Fat 4g, Cholesterol 63 mg, Vitamin C 43mg, Sodium 1,400 – 1,700 mg, Calcium 250 mg, Iron 6mg

DIRECTIONS Combine ground beef and 1 ½ tablespoons chili powder. In a large pot, brown ground beef, onion, jalapeno, and garlic. Drain any fat. Add in remaining ingredients and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 45 to 60 minutes or until chili has reached desired thickness. Top with cheddar cheese, green onions, cilantro or other favorite toppings.

BEEF CHILI

NUTRIENTS IN 1 CUP Calories: 395, Carbohydrates: 27g, Protein: 29g, Fat: 17g, Saturated Fat: 6g, Cholesterol: 77mg, Sodium: 283mg, Potassium: 1066mg, Fiber: 7g, Sugar: 6g, Vitamin A: 870IU, Vitamin C: 26.2mg, Calcium: 86mg, Iron: 6.2mg

Fall/Winter 2026 | 57

CHILI INGREDIENTS 2 tablespoons avocado oil (or preferred cooking oil) 1 large onion, diced 1 large green bell pepper, diced 1-2 jalapeños, deseeded and diced (*optional) 4 cloves garlic, minced or crushed 2 tablespoons chili powder 1 ½ teaspoons ground cumin, more to taste 1 teaspoon smoked paprika 1 teaspoon dried oregano 1 ½ cups vegetable broth, low sodium 28 ounces fire roasted tomatoes, canned (crushed or finely chopped) 2-3 tablespoons cornmeal (*optional - see note) 1 tablespoon brown sugar (sub molasses) 2 tablespoons tamari, low sodium (sub soy sauce) 1 tablespoon cocoa powder (unsweetened) 15 oz. black beans, canned. Drained and rinsed. 15 oz. kidney beans, canned. Drained and rinsed. 1 cup corn, fresh or frozen Salt and pepper, to taste

INGREDIENTS FOR VEGGIE MEAT CRUMBLES 14 ounces tofu, extra firm. Drained and pressed Pressing Tofu: wrap a block of tofu in a dish towel and place it on a rimmed plate. Add a cast iron skillet on top (or something equally heavy) and let it drain for 20-30 minutes. Pat dry to remove excess moisture on the surface. You can also use pre-pressed tofu. 1 ½ tablespoons avocado oil (or preferred cooking oil) 2 tablespoons tamari, low sodium (sub soy sauce) 2 teaspoons liquid smoke (sub with 1 teaspoon smoked paprika) ½ teaspoon granulated garlic

VEGAN CHILI DIRECTIONS FOR VEGGIE MEAT CRUMBLES In a large bowl, whisk the tamari, liquid smoke, and garlic together. Set aside. Using your hands, gently break up the pressed tofu into ½-inch pieces. Add the tofu to the bowl of marinade and gently toss to coat well. Heat a Large Non-Stick Pan over medium heat. Now add the oil and when it's hot, add the crumbled tofu. Cook until browned and slightly crispy on all sides, stirring occasionally. It should take about 7-9 minutes. Lower the heat if needed to prevent burning. Remove from heat and set aside. If you prefer to bake the tofu, preheat to 375 F and bake for 20-30 minutes until browned and slightly crispy. Line a large baking pan with parchment paper and spray with oil. Move the crumbles around every 7-10 minutes for even browning.

DIRECTIONS FOR C ILI Heat a large pot over medium heat. Now add the oil and when it's hot, add the onions, peppers, and jalapeños. Sauté until tender and lightly browned. About 6-8 minutes. Add garlic and sauté for 30-60 seconds until fragrant. Stir constantly to prevent burning. Now add the chili powder, cumin, oregano, and smoked paprika. Stir constantly for 30-60 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the vegetable broth and give a good stir to pick up the brown bits off the bottom. Add the roasted tomatoes, tamari, cornmeal, brown sugar, cocoa powder, salt and pepper. Raise heat to bring to a high simmer. Then reduce heat to maintain a light simmer for 10-12 minutes. Stir occasionally. Now stir in the beans and corn. Lightly simmer for another 10-12 minutes until cooked down and thickened. If you want a thinner consistency, add a few splashes of broth. Stir in the veggie meat crumbles and cook for another 6-8 minutes until heated throughout. Taste for seasoning and add more if needed. Remove from heat and let it sit for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy!

We’re here to help keep Chelsea moving.

WE ARE

Experienced orthopedic care you can count on. We’re proud to expand orthopedic services at Henry Ford Medical Center – Chelsea, bringing expert, compassionate treatment to the community. From joint pain and sports injuries to chronic mobility concerns, our orthopedic specialists are here with advanced care, personalized plans and a commitment to helping Chelsea stay active and well.

Henry Ford Medical Center – Chelsea | 1145 S. Main Street Fall/Winter 2026 59 | 59 Learn more and request an appointment at henryford.com/chelsea

Photo courtesy of the Huron Waterloo Pathways Initiative

FALL/WINTER 2026 CALENDAR & RESOURCES

Are you looking for local resources in our 5 Healthy Towns area that can assist with Basic Needs, Housing and Transportation, LifeLong Learning, Natural World, Physical Activity, or Social Support opportunities? Visit onebigconnection.org/obc-local-resources to learn more about these partners and local resources. The Resource Directory allows local non-profit service providers to post their own information and events at no cost to the organization. To learn more email matt@5healthytowns.org

COMMUNITY WELLNESS COALITION MEETINGS Email Lori@5healthytowns.org for more information on locations or virtual meeting links. Chelsea Friends & Family Wellness Coalition 11 am, Chelsea Wellness Center Dexter Wellness Coalition 4 pm, Dexter Wellness Center Grass Lake Community Wellness Initiative Third Monday of the month • 5 pm, Lost Railway Museum Manchester Wellness Coalition 12 pm, Manchester City offices Stockbridge Area Wellness Coalition 4:30 pm, Stockbridge Village Offices

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Check 5healthytowns.org and follow 5HF on Facebook

5 HEALTHY TOWNS WELLNESS CENTERS Chelsea Wellness Center Chelseawellness.org

Dexter Winter Market 9 am – 1 pm — November 7, 21; December 5, 19; January 2, 16; February 6, 20; March 6, 20; April 3, 17 Huron River Methodist Church dextermarket.com

Dexter Wellness Center Dexterwellness.org

TimberTown Fall Fest Saturday, October 24, 9 am • TimberTown Park, Chelsea

Stockbridge Wellness Center Stockbridgewellness.org

LIBRARIES Chelsea District Library Visit chelseadistrictlibrary.org for more information and to register for events

Manchester Wellness Center sites.google.com/mcs.k12.mi.us/ manchesterwellnesscenter/home* *Manchester Wellness Center is owned and operated by Manchester Community Schools with financial support from 5 Healthy Towns Foundation.

FARMERS MARKETS Chelsea Farmers Market Through October • Wednesdays, 1 – 5pm, Chelsea State Bank (Old US 12 Location) Saturdays, 8 am – 1 pm, Palmer Commons 222 Main Street • trinityhealthmichigan.org/ location/chelsea-hospital/farmers-market

Dexter District Library Visit dexter.lib.mi.us for more information and to register for events. Grass Lake Branch of Jackson District Library Call 517.522.8211 to RSVP or visit myjdl.com/grass-lake/ for more offerings Manchester District Library VisitManchesterlibrary.info for all offerings. Stockbridge Branch - Capital Area District Library cadl.org/about/our-locations/stockbridge

PERSONAL SERVICE, PERFECTED OVER FOUR GENERATIONS

734-475-1221 www.heydlauffs.com 113 N Main Street | Chelsea, MI

Speed Queen Classic Clean™

Classic things are classic for a reason – they just work. Fall/Winter 2026 | 61

AREA SENIOR CENTERS

Photo courtesy of the Huron Waterloo Pathways Initiative

Chelsea Senior Center Chelseaseniors.org Dexter Senior Center dexterseniors.org/ Grass Lake Senior Center grasslakeseniors.org; Manchester Area Senior Citizens Council manchesterareaseniors.org Stockbridge Area Senior Center stockbridgeareaseniors.org/

SRSLY Chelsea – srsly.org Dexter – srslydexter.org Manchester – srslymanchester.org Stockbridge – srslystockbridge.org

OTHER COMMUNITY RESOURCES AND EVENTS ALI Michigan (Adult Learners Institute) alimichigan.org/ Chelsea Area Friends for Recreation cafrchelsea.org Chelsea Trail Challenge chelseamich.com/annual-events/ctc/ City of Chelsea Parks and Recreation facebook.com/CityChelseaParksRec Chelsea Hospital Community Health Workers trinityhealthmichigan.org/about-us/communityhealth-and-well-being/community-healthworkers Friends of Waterloo/Waterloo Natural History Association at Eddy Discovery Center Advanced registration required for all events; wnha.org Grass Lake Road Runners running group Saturday mornings, 7:50 am, facebook.com/ GLRoadrunners Mental Health Awareness and Training (MHAT) stjoeshealth.org/MHAT

12-STEP PROGRAMS AND RECOVERY SUPPORT Livingston and Washtenaw Counties www.hvai.org/index.html 62 | 5healthytowns.org

Jackson County area32d2.org

AFFORDABLE LUXURY SINCE 1952

Your Local One Stop Shop for all of your Interior Needs

CUSTOM FURNITURE • Sofas, sectionals, accent chairs and more custom tailored in over 850 fabrics and leathers. • Custom furniture by Norwalk Furniture and Fjords • Now featuring Amisco Furniture and Barstools!

NOW FEATURING MATTRESSES • Helix hybrid mattresses for proven better sleep • GlacioTex cooling technology

WINDOW TREATMENTS

FLOORING

• Hunter Douglas Gallery & Authorized Service Center.

• Carpet, hardwood, luxury vinyl, cork, and more!

• Custom draperies and valances created by our in-house seamstress.

• Exceptional area rugs to add the finishing touch.

Let us help you make the most out of your next project! We’re a third generation family business focused on exceptional products backed by our Best Price Promise Non-commissioned seasoned interior designers We also specialize in custom closets, Amish dining room furniture, accessories, and more!

www.EsquireInteriors.com

AFFORDABLE LUXURY SINCE 1952

ANN ARBOR (734) 663-7011

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YOUR LOCATION

6235 Jackson Rd. (next to Menards)

863 W. Ann Arbor Tr. (downtown)

for a mobile design studio appointment

Call (734) 663-7011

Fall/Winter 2026 | 63

healthy teams strong communities Wellness isn’t just something we promote - it’s how we do business! We prioritize employee well-being to ensure our team is healthy and happy, so they can provide an elevated community banking experience to our customers and community. Experience the Chelsea State Bank Difference!

110 $8,000

2025

Financially supported 110 organizations, including nonprofits, community initiatives, and local sports teams.

Donated through CSB’s Blue Jeans for Charity Program

Detroit Free Press Top Workplace 2023, 2024, 2025

www.chelseastate.bank 64 | 5healthytowns.org Photo Credit: Chrissy Fitch

20 Bank Officers served on over 20 community boards

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