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CONTENTS
MYCITY MAGAZINE
8 My Community 8
Roger Sharp
12
Millennial Ink
Honored to Serve Permanent Change
My Outreach 16
Sacred Heart Village
Giving Hope to our Heroes
20 Charlie’s Forever Farm
16 My Style 36 Shop Your City!
By Shannon White
My Dish 38 Get Cozy!
The Home They Deserve
By Erin Caudell
My Arts
My Health
24 25 Years in Waiting
GFAC Ready to Renovate
28 Ashoka Rao
Preserving an Artform
My Music 32 Synthia Looper
Music Through Time & Space
40 Nutrition & Diabetes By Dr. Shane Jackson
My Haps 46 MCC Centennial Celebration 48 Art on Tap
Beer, Bourbon & BBQ
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November 2023
46
20 38
36 28
50 Pink Night Palooza
My Finances 57 Investing: Passive vs. Active By Marc Janca, AIF®
53 My Can’t Miss List
My Musings 54 Honoring Dr. Snell, DVM
My Thoughts 58 11.11.11
By Cheryl Dennison
By Leslie Toldo
My Reality 55 Dreaming of “Friendsgiving” By Vera Hogan
32
My Econ 56 There Will Be No Second Bailout
By Dr. Christopher Douglas
My Travels 59 A Chance Adventure
By Alexandria Pazienza-Nolan
My Afterthought 60 November Icons: The Cornucopia
Special Section 61
My City Cares
s r a e Y 5 2 g n i t i a W in
MYARTS
B
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MYCITYMAG.COM
Y
GFA BE C RE GIN AD RE Y T NO O VAT ION
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ince its inception in 1967, the Greater
all superfluous funds were redirected to remediation
a part of Flint culture. The non-profit
tabled in deference to the major development taking
Flint Arts Council (GFAC) has been
organization is responsible for much of what we love about Downtown life –
bringing to us the Flint ArtWalk, Jazz Festival, Tunes at
Noon, wonderful art exhibitions of all mediums, creative workshops and education, local support and more. Since
efforts. In the last couple of years, the project has been place in Flint’s Cultural Center. “We decided to hold
off until their plans were completed,” says Fiedler. “We didn’t want to get in anyone else’s way.” Now, there is nothing holding them back.
The renovation will include the basement, second
1998, GFAC has operated solely on the ground floor of
and third floors of the building, increasing the usable
Saginaw Street and for the last 25 years, has had plans to
third floor will be dedicated to performance arts and
the former Peerless Furniture building located at 816 S.
renovate and open the rest of the building for programming space. Thanks to the tireless work of staff, a small
army of donors and a timely grant of $1.25 million from
the Mott Foundation, the renovation project has officially begun. “We’re ecstatic!” enthuses GFAC CEO, Greg Fiedler. “I’m getting old and I was afraid that I would not be able to finish what I had started.”
When the organization first purchased the building,
Fiedler and the board of directors had made plans to
renovate it in its entirety but the fundraising capabilities fell short of the capital needed for more than just
space from the current 6,000 sq. ft. to 16,000. The
feature a small theatre and stage, as well as rehearsal space. “In the past, we’ve held performances in our
gallery but the space is very limited and we are always worried about the art on display,” Fiedler explains.
“Now, we will have a dedicated theatre area. Buckham Alley Theatre is excited to use the space and will be able to have a full season again.” Fiedler is quick to
point out that nearly all space in the GFAC building will remain multipurpose and open to those looking for a place to host meetings, dinners, and the like.
The second floor will hold the administration staff
the ground floor. Once the building officially opened
and include individual offices, conference space and
were ready to launch the renovation in 2008,” Fiedler
three small rooms and are always stepping over each
to artists and patrons, fundraising began anew. “We
recalls, “but then, the market collapse happened and our funders pulled out of the project.” In 2014, GFAC was
ready to renovate when the water crisis hit the city and
a classroom area. “We are currently operating out of
other,” Fiedler laughs. “After the renovation, we will
finally have a conference room again since we converted our old one into our radio station.” →
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MYARTS
e r ’ e “W atic! t s s ’ c t e i , y l l a n ” Fi . n r u t O E C r C A , GF ou r e l d e g Fi e r G -
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The basement will be reimagined to become a
multipurpose space for the artists and groups. “We are
planning to outfit and convert the basement into usable space,” says Fiedler. “Its walls are made of stone and we plan to open it to the rafters in the ceiling. It’s a
really cool space.” Fiedler predicts that in as little as six weeks after renovation, the building will be booming with artists of all sorts growing their craft. The renovation is estimated to take nine months to complete.
Preliminary steps were taken in early September with a
whole building clean-out. Floor plans are complete and renderings are currently underway.
In addition to the new building, GFAC is com-
mitted to bringing fresh events to the Downtown
district. The Music on the Bricks program kicked off
MYCITYMAG.COM
successfully in the first week of October. Working with
Although renovations have begun, GFAC is still in
multiple Downtown restaurants, Music on the Bricks
need of funds – approximately $200,000. They are look-
on Saginaw and the Hilton. “We have more events and
alyst of, and advocate for, increased artistic and cultural
brought performers to places such as Churchill’s, Cork programs in the works,” Fiedler teases.
Rounding out the year in the gallery, GFAC
ing for donors who believe in their purpose “to be a catenrichment in our ethnically diverse community.” ◆
will host their annual Claire Mott White Michigan
Clay Artists Exhibition this month, followed by the Michigan WaterColor Society Traveling Exhibition in December. “They are both stellar shows featuring
numerous artists from across Michigan,” adds Fiedler. The time has come for GFAC and the staff is
extremely excited for what more they can do for the
community. Personally, Greg Fiedler can’t wait for it
If you would like to donate or volunteer your time, please visit greaterflintartscouncil.org and click on the “Support” button, contact Greg Fiedler directly at 810.238.6496 or email greg@greaterflintartscouncil.org.
to happen. “Finally, it’s our turn.”
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MYHEALTH
Nutrition and Diabetes BY SHANE JACKSON, CHHC, BSCJ, MSCJ, PH.D. “YOUR FAVORITE HEALTH COACH”
Fatty Fish
Americans – over 11 percent of the
eat fatty fish such as salmon, tuna,
Diabetes Association®, over 37 million
population – are living with diabetes.
Characterized by high blood sugar levels, diabetes oc-
curs when the pancreas does not produce enough insulin
– a naturally occurring hormone that helps your body use
sugar for energy – or when the body is unable to effectively utilize the insulin it produces. Its causes include genetic factors, lifestyle choices and environmental factors.
At least twice a week, you should
mackerel and sardines,which are
loaded with healthy omega-3 fats and
reduce inflammation in the body. They protect
against heart disease and an eye condition called diabetic retinopathy. However, it’s best to eat it broiled, baked, or grilled instead of breaded and fried.
Nuts
One of the best ways to control diabetes is to in-
crease physical activity and avoid consuming junk foods.
Full of healthy fats, protein and
Moreover, people should consume low-carbohydrate foods
fiber, nuts keep your stomach full
these topics are well-covered throughout this article.
peanuts, almonds or walnuts at
which will help to maintain the diet and prevent diabetes;
and blood sugar steady. Snack on
The best ways to fight diabetes include engaging in
least three times a week.
physical exercise and regular walking. In addition, foods that are high in nutrients such as fiber, vitamins and minerals also protect against diabetes and other linked diseases.
Citrus Fruits Grapes, clementines or oranges
provide you with a maximum dose
Dark Green Leafy Vegetables These veggies are low in calories, carbs
and glycaemic index but high in nutrition, and help keep blood sugar under control. Moreover, they also contain magnesium which helps balance the body’s natural
of vitamin C. They are also high in folate and potassium, and the fiber in their citric acid slows down the
digestion which will not cause a rise in blood sugar. →
insulin level.
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MYCITYMAG.COM
Happypictures / Kidung Paripurna / stock.adobe.com
As
of 2019, according to the American
MYHEALTH Yogurt Yogurt is a good source of protein and pro-
biotics which support digestive health; howev-
er, it’s best to choose unsweetened varieties to
avoid added sugars.
Eating high-protein, low-calorie food combined with regular exercise helps to control not only diabetes, but also other serious chronic diseases. Useful Detox & Exercise Insulin resistance occurs when
cells in your body do not respond well to insulin; not everyone with diabetes is insulin resistant, and not everyone
with insulin resistance will get diabetes.
One thing to consume that helps deal with insulin
resistance is fenugreek water. Moreover, fruit-infused
water can be a plummeting factor against diabetes. It is advised to drink detox water to hydrate the body after light exercise or a morning walk.*
In recent days, most young people who are affected
by diabetes have developed the disease because of a lack
of physical activity and eating junk foods regularly. Lack of exercise affects the ability to manage disease. Eating high-protein, low-calorie food combined with regular
exercise helps to control not only diabetes, but also other serious chronic diseases. ◆
*NOTE: It is recommended to consult a physician when choosing detox water for diabetes control. Based in Flint, MI “Your Favorite Health Coach” Shane Jackson is a professional nutrition specialist with a vast scope of experience. She is a multiskilled and diversely talented professional with a strong inclination toward self-improvement, human psychology and overall personal health. She has an extensive nursing background as well as a Master’s Degree in Social Sciences and Criminal Justice from Michigan State University. Currently, Jackson is a Community Nutrition Instructor at Michigan State University and has authored her first children’s book, Rainbow Power.
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MY?????
MYHAPS
MOTT COMMUNITY COLLEGE
Centennial Celebration Weekend DOWNTOWN FLINT, MCC CAMPUS 9.22-23.2023
Photos Courtesy of Mott Community College On September 23, 1923, the first group of students began
taking courses at Flint Junior College (now MCC) in the still small, but rapidly growing City of Flint. One hundred years
later, MCC is still changing lives for the better by providing
high quality, accessible and affordable educational opportunities to what is now the Greater Flint community and well beyond. MCC celebrated its centennial during a weekend of fes-
tivities that included a Lecture and Concert Series, the “Mott,
Motown & More” Celebrity Lip Synch Show and Centennial Dance at the Capitol Theatre, a community parade through
Downtown Flint and a festival and open house on the main
campus featuring music, games, food trucks, a car show, tours and more. One of the highlights was a concert performed by
the Dave Bennett Quartet in the Mott Memorial Building Auditorium. The celebration wrapped up with a fireworks display in Flint’s historic Kearsley Park.
The community turned out to participate and enjoy this
momentous occasion and a great time was had by all! ◆
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XX 47
MYHAPS
14th Annual ART ON TAP:
BEER BOURBON
BBQ FLINT INSTITUTE OF ARTS | 10.13.2023 Photos Provided by FIA
This community favorite fall fundraiser featured sampling
of many local craft beers and bourbons. Dressed for the chilly weather, attendees enjoyed live music provided by Rodeo
Drive, a pottery demonstration, giant games, a barbecue buffet and donut bar, plus many prize drawings.
Funds raised by this annual event support FIA program-
ming and outreach programs for PreK-12 students. ◆
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XX 49
MYHAPS
Pink Night PALOOZA
FIM CAPITOL THEATRE | 10.19.2023 Photography by Doug Pike
The FIM Capitol Theatre was lit up pink in celebration of
this fancy and fabulous “Party with a Purpose.” For the past 15 years, Hurley Medical Center and Financial Plus Credit Union have co-hosted a one-of-a-kind fundraiser to help
local breast cancer patients pay bills, keep food on their tables
and much more. Themed “Your Fight is Our Fight,” the event
included food & drinks, a live/online auction, the always popular Br-Artistry Fashion Show, prizes and much more!
Pink Night Palooza raises funds to support local people
fighting all types of cancer, allowing donors to choose where
their money goes: Hurley’s Breast Cancer Navigation Fund or the General Cancer Services Fund. ◆
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My Can’t Miss List
NOVEMBER 2023
Nov. 10 - “Mean Girls” Nov. 11 The Whiting
Nov. 22
Nov. 10 - KTK Presents: “Seussical Jr.” Nov. 19 Fenton Village Playhouse Theatre
Nov. 24 - Christmas Holiday Magic Dec. 30 Crossroads Village
Nov. 15
Nov. 25
Wednesday 13
The Machine Shop
Flint Firebirds vs. Saginaw Spirit Dort Financial Center
Flint Handmade 16th Annual Holiday Craft Market Flint Farmers’ Market
Nov. 17 Nov. 18
“Little Shop of Horrors”
Nov. 25 - Holly Dickens Festival Historic Downtown Holly Dec. 12
Nov. 18
FSO Presents: Bernstein, Ratner & Grofé
Dec. 1
Flint Firebirds vs. Owen Sound Attack
Dec. 2
“Nutcracker”
Flint Roller Derby vs. Naptown Roller Derby
Dec. 2
Flint Santa Run
18th Annual Ties & Tails Fundraiser
Dec. 2
Greater Flint Area Sports Hall of Fame Banquet
The Capitol Theatre
The Machine Shop
The Whiting
Nov. 18
Dort Financial Center
Nov. 18
Rollhaven Skating Center
Nov. 18
Captain’s Club at Woodfield
Thunderstruck America’s AC/DC Tribute
The Whiting
Downtown Flint
Genesys Athletic Conference Center
See you there! 53
MYECON
THERE WILL NOT BE A SECOND BAILOUT BY DR. CHRISTOPHER DOUGLAS
H
opefully, the UAW strike will
be settled by the time this column goes to print. It is worth
taking a step back and asking why
not just give the UAW what it wanted
which allowed for the bailout to occur.
seeing record high revenue, GM’s 2022
The likely answer is that the 2009
simultaneously occur again to allow for
More troubling is that General
to avoid the strike.
bankruptcies of General Motors and
Chrysler are still fresh in these executives’ minds. Chapter 7 liquidation was only
prevented by an infusion of over $80 bil-
lion taxpayer dollars by the United States and Canadian governments. This bailout
was not fully repaid, and the U.S. government took a $10 billion-or-so loss on it.
The bailout was politically unpopular
Motors continues to lose market share
more, especially since the last bailout
bankrupt with a 21% market share, as rev-
find themselves facing bankruptcy once was only 14 years ago. Policymakers
would likely just let the automakers be
liquidated and their remnants absorbed
by their competitors. I am sure that auto executives are keenly aware of this. It is misleading to think about
General Motors’ “record profits.” GM’s
facing reelection in 2008 and the Obama
tween 2021 and 2022, but this is only
Administration, during the depth of the 2009 Financial Crisis, probably thought the damage of reversing course on the
unpopular bailout would be too severe for the economy amid the worst recession
since the Great Depression. Even in 2012
after the auto companies exited bankruptcy, the Gallup Organization found that
51% of Americans still opposed the bail-
out, compared to the 44% who thought it was the right decision.
Unique political and econom-
ic forces came together in 2008-09,
revenue was 9.5% lower than in 2018.
a bailout of the auto companies if they
at the time. The Bush Administration
likely agreed to it because they were not
56
It is unlikely that similar events could
post-bankruptcy. The company went
enue was insufficient to cover cost at that
market share. GM shed its legacy costs in bankruptcy, allowing the company to be
profitable at a lower market share. General Motors’ market share is estimated to be only 17% as of 2022.
If GM allows legacy costs to be
total revenue did jump by 23% be-
reinstated, such as automatic cost-of-
because 2021 revenue was 14% below
increase, a defined benefit pension and
its pre-COVID peak in 2018. Adjusted for inflation, GM’s revenue was lower
in 2022 than in 2018. General Motors
earned $147.05 billion in total revenue
in 2018 and $133.44 billion in 2022 (as measured by 2018 dollars). Rather than
living increases on top of a 40% pay
retiree health benefits, General Motors’ profitability at this lower market share will be threatened and bankruptcy in
the future becomes a possibility. If this
happens, do not expect taxpayers to ride to the rescue with another bailout. ◆
Dr. Christopher Douglas came to the University of Michigan-Flint in 2006. He earned a B.S. in Electrical Engineering and a B.S. in Economics from Michigan Technological University in 2001, and his Ph.D. in Economics from Michigan State University in 2007. As Associate Professor and Chair of the Department of Economics, he teaches Principles of Microeconomics, Principles of Macroeconomics, International Economics, Public Finance, and Sports Economics.
MYCITYMAG.COM
artemzavarzin / stock.adobe.com
General Motors, Ford and Stellantis did
Cornucopia
MYAFTERTHOUGHT
The
NOVEMBER ICONS: BY PETER HINTERMAN
S
ince before many of us can remember, the
cornucopia has been a symbol of autumn and has adorned many tables in celebration
of our Thanksgiving holiday. From the Latin Cornu Copiae meaning “horn of abun-
dance” the item is traditionally pictured or modeled as a horn-shaped wicker
basket overflowing with produce, flow-
ers, fruits or nuts. In centuries past, baskets of this form were used in Asia and
Central Europe by workers during harvest
season, worn strapped and slung around the
The origin of the cornucopia can be traced back to
a pair of myths written in the ancient world. In Greek
mythology, when the infant Zeus was hidden from his
of the harvest, prosperity and abundance.
Ida, he was cared for by the divine goat, Amaltheia,
ferent and new civilizations and continues to carry the
child-devouring father Cronus in a cave under Mount
who fed him on her milk. When playing with the goat, Zeus with his godly strength accidentally broke off one
Through the ages, the symbol has passed down to difsame meaning today.
This Thanksgiving, the “Horn of Plenty” should be
of Amaltheia’s horns. The horn then had the power to
seen as a representation of all that we have – food, fam-
In Roman mythology, it was through the power of Her-
to have a true cornucopia of unending nourishment, we
provide a constant flow of nourishment in many forms.
cules that the cornucopia was discovered. As he wrestled with the river god Achelous, Hercules ripped off one
of the god’s horns which then produced an unending
bounty from its center. Since the birth of the myths, for
ily, friends, etc. And, if we have excess, if we are lucky
should not hesitate to share it. Remember: Thanksgiving is about welcome, good cheer and giving to those we care about and to those without. ◆
Happy Thanksgiving to you and yours from My City.
Romans and Greeks, the cornucopia became a symbol 60
MYCITYMAG.COM
Oleksandr Pokusai / stock.adobe.com
shoulder and then filled with picked bounty.
LOCAL ORGANIZATIONS DOING GOOD WORK
SPONSORED BY
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SPONSORED CONTENT
WHALEY CHILDREN’S CENTER
Key Services
Whaley Children’s Center provides a home to foster children from all over the state of Michigan. We currently offer General Residential care to 36 kids and Independent Living care to six children. General Residential care is offered at our main campus and two group homes. By the time they arrive at the Center, our kids have been in 10-12 different placements, which creates an additional level of trauma. At Whaley, we strive to create a home-like environment for our residents. Every staff member at the agency is trained in Therapeutic Crisis De-escalation and is required to be an active part of the youths’ lives. There is 24-hour supervision and a 3:1 ratio for all youth in our care. We have a very diverse therapeutic program; our residents attend therapy with an assigned masterlevel therapist one to three times per week. Each youth is also part of group therapy that focuses on the needs of the population at that time, including such subjects as safety, future planning, emotional regulation, grief and loss, executive functioning enhancement, and much more. Our Independent Living Program provides a broad curriculum to address all the necessary life skills the youth will need once they begin to transition out of the foster care program and assists them during their transition into adulthood. The program covers college prep, job-seeking, financial planning, home and food management, personal care, health and safety, etc. The topics covered give them real life examples and scenarios they are likely to encounter on their own. We believe that given the right tools, our youth will be confident heading off for their independent futures without fear of having to rely on someone or a system. The program is a commitment to helping them learn and discover the necessary skills to better prepare them for the future.
How can the community help?
• Host a Giving Tree at your business or organization. • Join our Village Program (monthly gift of $5-$100). • Choose Whaley as your charity of choice through the “Kroger Plus” program. • Join the RiteAid “KidCents Program”. • Mentor a child. • Volunteer your time and talents. • Host a fund-raiser! • Sponsor one of our events. 62 |
Our Mission
Whaley Children’s Center empowers youth and families to overcome trauma.
Future Events:
Tux & Tennies Gala and Auction May 18, 2024
Whaley Golf Classic June 17, 2024
CARS 108 Roof Sit August 14-16, 2024
Leadership Mindy Williams President and CEO
Amy Anderson
Director of Human Resources and Agency Operations
Randi Beard
Director of Residential Children Services
Brandi Brent
Director of Residential
Danelle Freeman
Director of Program Development
Nickela Green
Director of Residential
Jennifer Koester
Director of Independent Living
Olivia Nagel
Director of Development
Ashleigh Sanders
Director of Community Development
Michelle Shamel
Director of Clinical and Medical Services
Katrina Taylor
Director of Finance
Contact
1201 N. Grand Traverse St. Flint, MI 48503 810.234.3603
Website
whaleychildren.org
SPONSORED CONTENT
ADOPT-A-PET Key Services
Adopt-A-Pet is a non-profit animal center situated on eight acres in Fenton, MI. We are committed to helping people and animals in need. We hold ourselves to a high standard – one which looks out for the physical AND mental well-being of our animals. All animals are fixed, vaccinated, tested and microchipped along with any other medical help they may require prior to adoption – lab work, radiographs, specialty surgeries, cancer treatments and so much more. We screen all potential adopters to ensure an appropriate match is made. We take pride ensuring the animals’ mental faculties are attended to by providing enrichment activities throughout their stay. We also partner with multiple other shelters and rescue groups to provide subsidized veterinary care to help not just the animals in our care, but hundreds from other groups, as well. Our Trap Neuter Return (TNR) program as well as a Spay/Neuter Assistance Program (SNAP) are available to the public; unfortunately, until we are able to move to a larger space, the TNR and SNAP programs are on hold.
How can the community help?
Our Capital Campaign will allow our growth to continue. Our goal is to raise $1 million for a new, on-site Training & Enrichment Center, expansion of our medical facility, and much-needed updates to our existing buildings.
Training & Enrichment Center
The Training & Enrichment Center will be a 4,000-square-foot building that provides space for dogs to play and receive training indoors when our cold winters and rainy seasons hit. It gives us the opportunity to hold yearround puppy classes and provides added indoor space. This is a completely new building on our grounds, fully furnished with bathrooms, a kitchenette and storage area.
Medical Center Expansion
In addition to spays/neuters and medical treatment for Adopt-A-Pet’s annual 1,100+ animals, our medical facility and staff provide reduced-cost services to several other rescue groups that have a similar mission. This almost doubles the number of animals that receive services from AdoptA-Pet on their journey to a new home. Our goal is to be able to do more medical procedures, re-launch our low-cost spay/neuter program and ramp up our Trap/Neuter/Return (TNR) program for community cats. We want to add an in-house laboratory and create a post-surgery area where animals can recover from surgery in a dedicated, less stressful space. 64 |
Our Mission
To provide a means to place unwanted, adoptable animals into appropriate, loving homes. We are committed to reducing the number of animals killed daily in overcrowded shelters by providing programs to help.
Shelter Renovations & Upgrades
After 17 years, our facility is in need of improvements. In addition to structural building repairs, we hope to create a “Zen Den” for dogs and pups to enjoy an outdoor sensory area, and update and expand our cat spaces. Through this capital campaign, it is our need to raise $1 million. A very generous donor has pledged to match every donation of $1,000 or more until December 31, 2023. So, your $5,000 gift doubles to $10,000! If you are interested in furthering your legacy, we have various naming options and invite you to contact Executive Director Jody Maddock at 810.629.0723.
Future Events
Wags & Whiskers Auction & Gala February 24, 2024 Contact Info@adoptapetfenton.com for more information.
Leadership Jody Maddock Executive Director
Glenn Shaltis
Executive Board President
Christine Welsh
Executive Board Vice President
Lisa Kowalski
Executive Board Treasurer
Michelle Broadworth Executive Board Secretary
Sponsored By:
Contact
13575 Fenton Rd. Fenton, MI 810.629.0723 info@adoptapetfenton.com
Website
adoptapetfenton.com
SPONSORED CONTENT
YMCA OF GREATER FLINT
Key Services
Financial Aid is Available!
We want to eliminate barriers that prevent people from coming to the Y. To that end, we raise over $450,000 to provide financial assistance for programs and services. Applications are available at every branch.
Our Mission
The mission of the YMCA of Greater Flint is to put Christian principles into practice through programs that build a healthy spirit, mind and body for all.
YMCA Camp Copneconic
The Y is committed to empowering kids to lead healthy, active lifestyles. From gaining confidence to building positive relationships with peers, Camp Copneconic offers youth a chance to connect with the natural world around them. Programs include day camp, overnight camp, retreats and outdoor education.
Fitness Branches
Fitness and well-being activities at the Y go well beyond just working out. In addition to fitness facilities, we provide a variety of programs led by caring staff designed to nurture a healthy spirit, mind and body.
Safety Around Water
This program focuses on drowning prevention, ensures that every kid can learn essential skills to help them stay safe, develop confidence and have fun in and around water.
How Can the Community Help? Volunteer
We need a lot of help to make the Santa Run a success. To volunteer, email Pam Bailey at pambailey@flintymca.org.
Donate The “Partner With Youth” campaign raises important funds to send kids to Camp Copneconic, scholarships for swimming lessions, a free afterschool club called Safe Places, and more! Visit flintymca.org/donate or click the “Donate” button at the bottom of any page on our website.
66 |
Future Events
Annual Santa Run Walk & Run Sponsored by Al Serra Autoplaza December 2, 2023 Downtown Flint
Annual Fundraiser Party
Theme: “The Great Pumpkin Party” February 10, 2024 @ YMCA Camp Copneconic
Summer Camp June 17-August 24, 2024 @ YMCA Camp Copneconic
Leadership Shelly Hilton
Chief Executive Officer
Melany Gavulic
Board of Directors President
Sponsored By:
Contact
411 E. Third St. Flint, MI 48503 810.232.9622
Website flintymca.org
Social Media
facebook.com/FlintYMCA instagram.com/ymca_of_flint/ twitter.com/YMCA_of_Flint
SPONSORED CONTENT
ENNIS CENTER FOR CHILDREN Our Mission
With the support of the community, we preserve families when possible and create new families when necessary.
Future Events
Please visit enniscenter.org and/ or Facebook.com/EnnisCenter for event updates!
Key Services
Ennis Center for Children provides foster care licensing, placement and adoption services, treatment foster care, outpatient counseling and mental health services (all ages, including adults); Therapeutic Arts Groups, Youth Assistance Program (YAP – support services for at-risk youth); Juvenile Justice Program (support services for youth involved with the juvenile justice system); Young Adult Voluntary Foster Care Program (YAVFC – support for youth transitioning into adulthood) and other support services for children and families in crisis. Jill Ennis Educational Center is an Educational Center for students (ages 14-18) that are in the Juvenile Justice system that have been expelled from public school in Wayne County. This school gives them an opportunity to complete their educational goals. In addition, Families and Children Together (FACT – designed by Ennis Center for Children) integrates the coordination of foster care and family work. This includes medical, dental, education and judicial needs as well as trauma-based prevention. By using all available community resources, the ultimate goal of FACT is the preservation and reunification of families.
How can the community help?
Among our biggest priorities and most fundamental needs are foster parents, especially those willing to provide a home for children of all ages. We gladly accept new clothing in all sizes (including socks, underwear, pajamas and shoes), diapers, Pull-ups, Goodnites (especially size 4) and baby wipes, new/ unopened toys for all ages, personal hygiene items and hair care products for all skin and hair types. We are also experiencing a great need for convertible/5- point restraint car seats, cribs and toddler beds. Monetary donations are appreciated and will assist with unexpected expenses such as uniforms, tutoring, after school activities and more. Ennis Center for Children is currently looking for golfers to join our 31st Annual “Scramble for Kids.” We are also seeking door prizes, gift cards/ certificates, silent auction items and sponsors for this fundraiser. Proceeds benefit Ennis Center’s programs for abused and neglected children, and families in crisis throughout southeast Michigan.
68 |
Donate During National Adoption Awareness Month November 2023
Ennis Center for Children has been serving children and families in crisis for 45 years. During the month of November 2023, we are asking our family, friends, community partners, leaders and the public to help us to help kids by donating $45 or any amount!
31st Annual ‘Scramble for Kids’ Golf Fund-raiser June, 21 2024 Coyote Preserve, Fenton
Angelia Dore, MA
VP Child Welfare, North Region
Melanie Williams, MA
VP Child Welfare, South Region
Sheery Houston,
VP Development & Marketing
Jeri Fisher, MA
VP Community & Leadership Development
Bridgitt McCaughey, MSW Chief Operating Officer, FACT (Family and Children Together)
Contact
129 E. Third St. Flint, MI 48502 810.233.4031 beafosterparent@enniscenter.org
Website
enniscenter.org
Fundraiser at Topgolf Auburn Hills (Date TBD)
National CBC Conference, MI Fall 2024
Leadership
Robert E. Ennis, LMSW President & Founder
Erin Covert
Chief Operating Officer
Gale Frase Overstreet, BBA VP Administrative Services
Kristina Orban Controller
Sponsored By:
Social Media
Facebook.com/EnnisCenter Twitter @enniscenter Instagram @enniscenter YouTube: Ennis Center for Children
SPONSORED CONTENT
COMMUNITY COLLABORATION IMPROVES CANCER CARE MTA will match funds to benefit Genesys Hurley Cancer Institute patients
K
imberly VanSlyke-Smith’s latest opportunity to collaborate with community partners also is her first as the new executive director of Genesys Hurley Cancer Institute (GHCI). Mass Transportation Authority (MTA) has offered to match funds up to $50,000 for cancer patients needing rides to and from treatment at GHCI! “I’m thrilled to shine a light on the Cancer Institute and our partnership with MTA to ensure every patient who needs transportation will receive those services,” VanSlyke-Smith announces. “It is critical that our patients don’t miss or postpone their scheduled medical treatments, and thanks to the tremendous generosity of MTA, this will not happen!” The MTA Rides to Wellness program is a comprehensive, nonemergency medical transportation service that provides door-to-door and same day service to riders needing transportation to and
from medical and other wellnessrelated appointments. “Transportation should not be an obstacle to cancer treatment, and we are happy to lend a hand to hundreds of patients who rely on MTA Rides to Wellness for their access to this important health care need,” reports MTA CEO, Ed Benning. Last fiscal year, GHCI provided approximately 3,300 MTA wellness rides to more than 600 patients at a cost in excess of $58,000. The cost for one ride is $15 each way. That is why financial support from MTA is so urgent, VanSlykeSmith points out. Matching transportation funding from other donors will offset thousands of dollars GHCI spends every year to ensure patients get to and from their treatments. Through the years, community partnerships have been a lifeline for GHCI patients. The American Cancer Society
has provided grant funding, The Community Foundation of Greater Flint has assisted financially and Pink Par-Tee has supported an annual breastscreening clinic. “These are just a few of the community partnerships that are strengthening Genesee County’s foundation and building even stronger relationships among all of us to benefit every single person living in Genesee County,” VanSlyke-Smith announces. “It’s all about extending a helping hand to our most vulnerable population to ensure their health, safety and wellbeing.” Even though she is new to GHCI, VanSlyke-Smith is no stranger to Genesee County. Born and raised in this community, she has dedicated her career to helping the area’s underserved population receive the care they need and deserve. She accepted the executive director position at Genesys Hurley Cancer Institute
after serving as director of nursing for the Genesee County Health Department. “Working for a strong organization such as Genesys Hurley Cancer Institute is a point of pride for me,’ she adds. “I represent two Genesee County health care leaders – Ascension Genesys and Hurley – who have collaborated to provide cancer care all in one place and close to home.” GHCI not only offers medical services to help heal patients physically, but also quality of life programs to improve their emotional health. These programs are open at no charge to GHCI patients, as well as Genesee County residents undergoing cancer treatment, and their caregivers. If any community organizations would like to help GHCI hit its $50,000 match from MTA, please contact Lori Burger at 810.762.8313 or Michele Loper at 810.780.8864. To learn more about Genesys Hurley Cancer Institute, visit ghci.org, or call 810.762.8226. For information on MTA and its Rides to Wellness program, call 810.780.8946.
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SPONSORED CONTENT
HUMANE SOCIETY OF GENESEE COUNTY
Key Services • Pet Adoption
• Animal Cruelty Investigation
Our Mission
To provide shelter and adoption of companion animals, reduce overpopulation, extend humane education, prevent cruelty and provide those services that promote the goals and policies of the Humane Society of Genesee County.
• Kibble Cupboard-Pet Food Pantry • Humane Education (Tours, Furry Tales Reading Program, Tots & Tales, etc.) • Think Pawsitive (Workplace Wellness Program) • Volunteer and Community Service Opportunities • Birthday Parties
Future Events Holiday of Hope
• Golf Outings and other Special Events
Saturday, December 2, 2023 10am-3pm at HSGC
How can the community help?
Leadership
Cash Donations - These funds stay within our shelter and benefit homeless animals in Genesee County. They can be made in person, online, by mail or phone. Automated monthly donations simplify the giving process and minimize HSGC’s administrative costs.
Executive Director
Financial
Cage Sponsorship - Individuals and businesses can help feed and shelter a companion animal for $1 a day ($365 annual cost). Community Marketing Partnerships & Event Sponsorships - This is a great way for the community to support one of Genesee County’s oldest and most trusted organizations.
Non-Monetary
Wish List - Donations of new or used items make a significant impact on our ability to care for shelter animals. Find our complete Wish List at geneseehumane.org, as well as a link to our Amazon Wish List. Shop for a Cause - Many retailers offer the opportunity to support organizations like HSGC. Kroger - If you have a Kroger Plus Card, you can help HSGC. 72 |
David Schmieder Kristin Cole
Shelter Manager
Contact
G3325 Dort Hwy. Burton, MI 48529 810.744.0511
Website
Geneseehumane.org
Social Media
Facebook.com/ humanesocietyofgeneseecounty Twitter @hsgc1926 Instagram @hsgc1926
SPONSORED CONTENT
VOICES FOR CHILDREN Key Services
A singular service provider, Voices for Children is the only Accredited Children’s Advocacy Center serving the Flint and Genesee County area. Voices for Children works with thousands of child survivors of abuse, neglect and human trafficking every year.
Hope - Voices for Children provides victim and family advocacy, case management and forensic interviews. Forensic Interviews are an evidencebased practice in which trained and trauma-informed professionals have an open-ended conversation with a child or teen that allows the youth to share what has happened to them. From physical abuse to sexual abuse, neglect, even human trafficking and witness to violence including domestic and intimate partner violence, forensic interviews allow children to tell their truth, one time, instead of having to repeatedly relive their trauma. Help - Voices for Children helps support children ages 0-17 and their
non-offending caregivers as they navigate the justice system, and connects them with needed resources. This can include basic needs, educational resources, transportation, employment and other forms of support. Additionally, Voices for Children facilitates the Genesee County Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) program, a national model that helps children in foster care by connecting them with highly trained volunteers.
Our Mission
Voices for Children Advocacy Center is dedicated to serving the child victims and families of child abuse in Genesee and Shiawassee Counties and enhancing the lives of all children through treatment, education, and by increasing community awareness.
Healing - Counseling and Therapy services at Voices for Children are provided free of charge to clients. Therapists specialize in supporting children who have survived the unthinkable and can work with children from toddlers to teens. Support groups are also available for child/teen survivors and non-offending family members.
Future Events
A Voice - Voices for Children proactively educates our community and
Superhero 5k and 1k Fun Run 2024
youth about how to stay safe and report suspected child maltreatment. Free community training includes Safe Sleep, Infant Safety, Human Trafficking Prevention, Internet Safety, Talking to Children About Racism, Trauma Informed/Adverse Childhood Experiences, and Advocacy for LGBTQIA+ Youth. Voices for Children also offers body-safety training for children in preschool through 2nd grade. All training is provided free of charge.
How can the community help?
• Financial contributions, especially to the endowment campaign (voicesforcac.org/endowment) • Volunteering (find out more and apply online at voicesforcac.org/volunteer) • Wish List = Gift Cards from Meijer, Target, Walmart, Aldi and Kroger; New Car Seats, New Boys Clothing Sizes 3-6, Tissues, Toilet Paper and Paper Towels, Snacks/beverages • Attend a free training (sign up at voicesforcac.org/training ) • Help spread the word about Voices for Children as a Community Ambassador! 76 |
29th Annual Children’s Champion Awards March 21, 2024 at Riverfront (UM-Flint) To sponsor, call 810.238.3333 ext. 206 or email lauren@voicesforac.org. Date is TBD, September 2024.
Leadership
Contact
Chief Ronald Wiles (Ret.) Board President
515 East St. Flint, MI 48503
Cheryl Sclater
810.238.3333
Board Vice President
Kevin Lenkart
Board Vice President
Tamara Brickey Board Secretary
Jeffrey Collier Board Treasurer
Claudnyse D. Holloman President & CEO
Sponsored By:
Website
VoicesForCAC.org
SPONSORED CONTENT
WREATHS ACROSS AMERICA
Our Mission
REMEMBER the fallen, HONOR those that serve and their families, and TEACH the next generation about the value of freedom. Each year, wreath-laying ceremonies are conducted in December at more than 2,100 Cemeteries and other locations in all 50 states and beyond.
Key Services
WAA works all year long to obtain wreath sponsorships to allow the organization to host the annual Wreaths Across America Day in December. Of the 62,000+ souls buried at Great Lakes National Cemetary, over 19,000 were received in 2022.
How can the community help ?
WAA would not be successful without the help of volunteers and the generosity of the community and local businesses that offer invaluable support to the WAA mission. You can sponsor wreaths with a donation and volunteer to place wreaths on grave sites of our heroes at Great Lakes National Cemetery at WreathsAcrossAmerica.org/MI0178.
Leadership Wayne Hanson Chairman
Karen Worcester Executive Director
Matt Hare Mike McDougall
Volunteer Location Coordinators
helpdesk@wreathsacrossamerica.org
Website
Social Media
facebook.com/WAA HQ Twitter @WreathsAcross lnstagram @wreathsacro
National Wreaths Across America Day Great Lakes National Cemetery in Holly, MI December 16, 2023
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877.385.9504
WreathsAcrossAmerica.org
Future Events
The ceremony begins promptly at 11am and the truck procession will arrive at 11:30am. Parking will be offsite at Genesys Hospital (Pollock Rd.). Beginning at 10am until 2pm, MTA will provide shuttle service every 15-20 minutes from the North parking lot at Ascension Hospital.
Contact
Wreaths Across America 4 Point Street Columbia Falls, ME 04623
Sponsored By:
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MYCITYMAG.COM