Give Northern Michigan 2024 by MyNorth

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donate and volunteer in the place we love

NORTHERN MICHIGAN

This has been a challenging year for nonprofits across the country: Giving by individuals has declined slightly again year over year, a factor that, paired with monumental natural disasters this year, is creating an acute need for donations of time, money, energy and skills. Sometimes, the needs around us can seem so great that it feels overwhelming to give at all.

But every day in Northern Michigan we see evidence of the goodness, generosity and determination in our small towns and communities. That could mean filling a backpack with books for a child struggling to read; protecting a stretch of shoreline from development forever; teaching high school students the warning signs of suicide; feeding hungry neighbors.

What amazes me about Northern Michigan is that for every pot, there is a lid—a group finding their own particular calling and way of making impact, and inviting people in different ways to these organizations to help spread comfort, hope, natural wonder, love, protection, encouragement, economic advantage. The list goes on.

The pages of Give Northern Michigan are a portal through which local nonprofits choose to partner with us to share their stories with our readers in hopes of reaching those who align with their missions. I hope that they nudge you to appreciate the diversity and breadth of organizations here, whether they align with your vision or not, and inspire you to find your own cause to champion in a way that’s meaningful and leaves the world a little softer and kinder.

As always, thank you for loving this place.

Cara McDonald, Executive Editor cara@mynorth.com

Let’s celebrate together

Heather Boivin

3285 South Airport Road West Traverse City, MI 49684

231-933-5263

Yancy Boivin

Financial Advisor

3285 South Airport Road West Traverse City, MI 49684 231-933-5263

John W Elwell

Advisor

3588 Veterans Dr Traverse City, MI 49684

231-947-0079

Jamie Keillor

4110 Copper Ridge Dr, Bldg D, Suite 202 Traverse City, MI 49684 231-252-3561

Justin Liptak

513 S Union Street Traverse City, MI 49684 231-933-0881

Jim Mellinger

12935 S West Bay Shore Dr Suite 355 Traverse City, MI 49686 231-947-1123

John Tredway

Andrew Weaver

Advisor 125 Park Street Suite 250 Traverse City, MI 49684 231-947-3032

Jon Lamb

12935 S West Bay Shore Dr Suite 355 Traverse City, MI 49686 231-947-1123

Jon Tredway

806 S Garﬁeld Ave Suite B Traverse City, MI 49686 231-932-1290

Bill Collin

US Highway 31 Suite 400 Interlochen, MI 49643 231-276-1355

Teressa Hupfer

100 River Street, Unit 2 Elk Rapids, MI 49629 231-264-9433

Traverse City

Preserving Land for Generations

THE NONPROFIT: Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy

THEIR MISSION: To protect significant natural, scenic and farm lands and advance stewardship now and for future generations.

RECENT SUCCESS STORY: Thanks to decades-long conservation efforts, Lake Bellaire’s north arm is now home to two protected parcels: Golden Days Loon Nature Sanctuary and the Loon Nursery Natural Area. GTRLC worked with private landowners to protect hundreds of acres of land and thousands of feet of undisturbed shoreline through conservation easements and, after securing linchpin funding this past summer, an entire 200-acre tract is now protected. Today, Lake Bellaire is home to four pairs of nesting loons, a number that had dipped to a single pair in the 1990s.

CURRENT CHALLENGE: Recently, a 35-acre property owned by Elberta Land Holding Company was targeted for a seven-story luxury resort development that would have irreparably altered Elberta’s small-town character. Local opposition spurred developers to withdraw the proposal and GTRLC entered into a purchase agreement for the property that expires on December 15, 2024.

THE NONPROFIT: Grow Benzie

THEIR MISSION: This rural prosperity incubator improves the lives of Benzie County children, families and communities by providing essential backbone services such as fiscal sponsorship, bookkeeping, grant writing, communications support, and office space.

RECENT SUCCESS STORY: Grow Benzie’s top three food-business partners are experiencing their busiest seasons yet. Cold Creek Farm, which utilizes both the incubator farm and kitchen, opened a retail location in downtown Frankfort and are now wholesaling custom hot sauces. Roll Model expanded its vegan spring rolls and grain bowls into the grab-n-go market and can be found at spots like Grocer’s Daughter Chocolate in Empire. Buzzing from

So far, GTRLC has raised $14.9 million of the $19.5 million needed to purchase the land.

SOLUTION: Raise the final chunk of money. “Large and small gifts have been pouring in from the community,” says GTRLC Director of Communications and Engagement Jennifer Jay. “We hope that readers will step forward and understand that this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that impacts everything—our way of life, our dunes, our water quality, our heritage, everything.”

GET INVOLVED: Hit the donate button at gtrlc.org and direct funds toward the Elberta Waterfront Community Conservation Project. Discuss multi-year pledges with Senior Charitable Giving Specialist Erin Whiting (email ewhiting@gtlrc.org).

Rural Champions

a hugely successful catering season, Off the Hook also anchors the new Frankfort food truck court with their award-winning tacos.

CURRENT CHALLENGE: Limited resources in rural communities lead to competitive fundraising, duplication of services and redundancy in local efforts. Oftentimes, nonprofits are pushed to stack responsibilities onto board members, volunteers or a single staff person which can ultimately lead to inconsistency and reduced services or the demise of a program.

SOLUTION: Grow Benzie restructured to become a rural prosperity incubator, providing critical services that most small, rural organizations aren’t able to scale up. By maintaining consistent, skilled staff who provide technical services such as bookkeeping, grant writing and communications, Grow Benzie helps collaborative bodies, nonprofits and fledgling initiatives focus on their missions.

GET INVOLVED: Financial gifts support staffing needed to amplify community services for education, broadband, food and farming and other initiatives. Your donation empowers local nonprofits and helps fuel collaboration to create real, far-reaching change. Visit growbenzie.org to get involved.

Help Feed Your Neighbors

THE NONPROFIT: Acme Christian Thrift Store & Food Pantry

THEIR MISSION: Aiding neighbors in need with the help of more than 60 volunteers, Acme Christian Thrift Store & Food Pantry (ACTS) provides assistance to the poor, hungry and homeless.

In 2023, ACTS served 2,662 families within the tri-county area, providing everything from financial assistance to a family of five whose water had been shut off to

“One of our objectives is to have people be able to choose what food they want. We don’t pack a box. They’re able to shop our shelves and get what their family will use,” says Director of Operations Carol Hockin. This method, along with sourcing excess food from local stores and bakeries, cuts down on food waste.

Skyrocketing food costs and increasing pantry visitor numbers are testing ACTS’ bandwidth. “I’m pretty good at shopping around and finding the best deals,” Hockin says. “I’ve been doing this since 2005, and I know where I can get the best buys. Not only on food, but diapers, wipes, toilet paper and

SOLUTION: An uptick in thrift store sales has been helpful, and in 2022, ACTS was able to pay off its mortgage, which freed up some funds. Looking ahead, it’s all about more funding and more food donations.

GET INVOLVED: Have extra ground beef from a cow you’ve purchased and processed? Donate it to the food pantry (skip the outdated canned goods; no one likes those). Make a financial contribution. Volunteer in the pantry as a greeter and in the thrift store running the cash register and sorting donations. For current opportunities, visit acmechristian.org/volunteer.

Giving Children Hope

path. I can talk about my feelings and not make negative comments when I get angry or frustrated. I am not afraid to ask questions. I listen and make better choices.”

CURRENT CHALLENGE: In 2023, 24,018 children were victims of abuse or neglect in Michigan. Of those children, 8,463 were removed from their homes and put into foster care, shelters or residential placement. These children have lost trust in adults and live with the fear of not knowing what each day will bring.

THEIR MISSION: To help children navigate their futures after being removed from their homes because of abuse, neglect or abandonment. Through God’s help and love, Eagle Village equips children and families for success.

RECENT SUCCESS STORY: “When I came to Eagle Village, I didn’t have any expectations. All I knew is that I was scared, I was angry, and I reacted to everything the wrong way,” says 13-yearold Caleb. “Today, I am a different person; I am now on a better

SOLUTION: Eagle Village impacted over 5000 lives through residential care, challenge weekends, adoptions, foster care, trauma assessment, retreats and camps in 2023. “Your past doesn’t determine your future” is the concept they teach. Eagle Village’s goal is to create intentional paths and teach youth the skills to help them navigate life; one of change, determination and hope.

GET INVOLVED: Support Eagle Village by investing in children who have endured abuse and neglect. Donate to the Eagle Fund, volunteer or come for a tour.

Learn more at eaglevillage.org/donate

Grand Traverse Regional

Land Conservancy

2846 3 Mile Rd N Traverse City, MI 49686

231.929.7911 www.gtrlc.org

MISSION STATEMENT

Protecting significant natural, scenic and farm landsand advancing stewardshipnow and for future generations

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Glen Chown

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Kathleen Guy, Chair

Koffi Kpachavi, Vice Chair

Linda Cline, Treasurer

John Bercini, Secretary

Perry Adams

Cathie Cunningham Ballard

Mack Beers

Alena Bowman

Don Coe

John Collins

JoAnne Cook

Rebecca Ewing

Clifford Fox

Jim Huckle

Ray Kendra

Chip May

Paul Moyer

Barbara Nelson-Jameson

Annie Olds

Susan Palmer

Kevin Russell

Greg Seman

Maureen Smyth

Terrie Taylor

Protecting Elberta’s Waterfront: Balancing Conservation and Growth

For generations, people have treasured Frankfort and Elberta’s idyllic summers, golden sunsets, and warm sense of community. But this cherished way of life is at risk. A 35-acre waterfront property was recently targeted for a high-rise luxury resort, a development that would have forever altered these communities’ small-town character.

The land, stretching from Elberta Beach to the Historic Waterfront Park and from the park to the village’s northern edge, features 578 feet of Lake Michigan shoreline, 3,120 feet on Betsie Bay, and 10 acres of forested dunes. It’s recognized as the last substantial site for economic growth in Elberta, which has struggled to find its economic footing since its industrial heyday. While the proposal was withdrawn, partly due to local opposition, many feel it’s only a matter of time before another, similar offer is made.

The Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy (GTRLC) and its partners are now presenting a transformative vision to protect Elberta’s irreplaceable shoreline, enhance recreational opportunities, and support community-aligned redevelopment. Yet the Conservancy needs your help to make this vision a reality—and time is running out.

GTRLC has entered into a purchase agreement for the property and has until December 15 to raise $19.5 million to secure the land. If successful, the organization will work to raise additional funds to bring this vision to life. This plan includes preserving 10 acres of steep, forested dunes as a nature sanctuary, transferring 16 acres at the mouth of Betsie Bay to the Village

of Elberta as a public park, and providing the land needed for the Betsie Valley Trail to extend along the waterfront to complete the longawaited Beach-to-Beach connection between Frankfort and Elberta’s Lake Michigan beaches. The remaining nine acres will be reserved for mixed-use development that aligns with the community’s character and vision for economic revitalization.

This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to be part of an extraordinary legacy that protects this beloved shoreline and creates a thriving future for Elberta. But the window is closing, and the Conservancy urgently needs your support. Visit gtrlc.org to learn more and to donate today.

SCAN TO LEARN MORE AND DONATE

BURGEONING

501(C)(3)

ISN is a Cooperative Invasive Species Management Area (CISMA), serving Benzie, Grand Traverse, Leelanau & Manistee counties. A community organization for 10+ years, ISN recently became the first CISMA in the state to become a nonprofit.

MISSION STATEMENT

Protecting, enhancing, and promoting northwest Michigan's natural communities through terrestrial invasive plant management and outreach.

WHERETO FINDUS

3334 Veterans Dr, Unit A

3334 Veterans Dr, Unit A Traverse City, MI 49684

Traverse City, MI 49684

231-252-4148

www.HabitatMatters.org

PROTECTINGOURNATURAL RESOURCES

Northwest Michigan is prized for its beautiful landscapes and scenic views. The Northwest Michigan Invasive Species Network (ISN) aims to help maintain and amplify our spectacular habitats and unique resources through invasive species management and outreach.

ISN works with 60+ partners; from private landowners to the US Forest Service, ISN provides management suggestions and assists with on-the-ground work, prioritizing high priority species in high quality habitats. Our outreach helps spread the word about invasive species - including ornamental invasive plants still legal for sale via our Go Beyond Beauty program. For those interested in getting their hands dirty, ISN hosts volunteer events in spring and summer, as well as workshops, so you can take what you’ve learned and apply it at home.

Your generosity can make a big difference! Every dollar you donate to ISN leverages public grant funding, and generous donations from community members like you help ISN continue their important work. To make our organization more effective, we are looking for the donation of a new or used work truck, which can be a tax deductible gift, and help purchasing a sign for our new office. Please consider making a gift today or volunteering your time to help us improve habitat in northwest Michigan.

Connect with Public Radio

THE NONPROFIT: Interlochen Public Radio

THEIR MISSION: To connect people in Northern Michigan to the world and the world to life in Northern Michigan.

RECENT SUCCESS STORY: Competing against stations multiple times its size, Interlochen Public Radio won a national Murrow award for an episode of Points North this year. The program profiled Anishinaabemowin language teacher Kenny Pheasant.

CURRENT CHALLENGE: As part of the Interlochen Center for the Arts mission, Interlochen Public Radio strives to ensure Northern Michigan is known for high-quality journalism and a vibrant arts scene. As listening audiences splinter off into a thousand spaces, Interlochen’s agility is tested to meet them where they are—a task easier said than done, says Executive Director Peter Payette.

SOLUTION: “We are trying lots of things,” Payette says. “We have to create things people want to be a part of.” Interlochen Public Radio presents and sponsors chamber concerts all over the region,

THEIR MISSION: Protecting, enhancing and promoting northwest Michigan’s natural communities through terrestrial invasive plant management and outreach.

RECENT SUCCESS STORY: After co-hosting volunteer workdays on Elberta Beach since 2016 to tackle the invasive species baby’s breath, ISN recently hosted its first Elberta Beach restoration workday, transplanting native beach grasses and planting common milkweed in areas that had once been overrun by the invasive flower.

“This project has not only returned the beach to community members, providing the classic Northern Michigan views that are associated with the area, but has also returned the beach to the native environment. It’s not uncommon to see bald eagles

mostly in small spaces, allowing the community to connect with musicians. Next up is an event with Kenny Pheasant at The Alluvion in November.

GET INVOLVED: Connect with IPR by signing up for their weekly newsletter. Take ownership and join conversations about the future of IPR. Find info on the events page. And donate! You can do all these things at interlochenpublicradio.org. “We are at a transitional moment and IPR is a unique regional asset our community has built,” says Payette. “Let’s figure out what to do with it together.”

Protecting Our Native Species

perched in trees, blue herons flying overhead, monarchs drifting on the wind and snakes winding through beach grasses,” says ISN Director Audrey Menninga.

CURRENT CHALLENGE: ISN is stretched thin, employing just six year-round staff across its four-county service area. The team is diving into assisting Antrim County with managing a hemlock woolly adelgid infestation—which will spread crews even thinner.

SOLUTION: Monetary contributions help offset costs for ISN grants, allowing grant money to be given back to the community for on-the-ground field work and education.

GET INVOLVED: Help ISN reach their $25,000 goal for the purchase of a treatment crew truck. Report invasive species directly to ISN, promote native ecosystems by planting native species at home, and provide food and habitat for insects, birds and small mammals where landscape has been broken up by development.

“You can focus locally and make changes around you, which can go a long way to helping ecosystems,” Menninga says. Get involved at habitatmatters.org.

Our Mission

Since 1941, Young Life Leaders have been showing up at basketball games, hanging out at the local lunch spot, and building friendships, family, community and church bonds, and continue to pursue the world though the word of God. Young Life Leaders have been in Grand Traverse since 2008 actively sharing their mission of introducing adolescents to Jesus Christ and helping them grow in their faith.

Who We Serve

Young Life (High School Students) WyldLife (Middle School Students) YoungLives (Teen Mom Ministry)

To promote early learning and literacy by providing brand-new books and materials that support playing, writing

“Every child deserves a chance for a successful life,” says Founder and Executive Director Kara Murphy Gregory. “Our materials go directly into the hands of children and families through commu-

Now in 27 counties, PoWeR! Book Bags has distributed more than 500,000 books and 85,000 PoWeR! Literacy Bags to children in Northern Lower Michigan. During a public health department home visit, one grandmother

American Foundation for Suicide Prevention

To save lives and help bring hope to those affected by suicide by delivering innovative prevention programs, educating the public about risk factors and warning signs, raising funds for suicide research and programs, and reaching out to those who have lost someone to suicide.

RECENT SUCCESS STORY: In 2022, lobby efforts lead to the suicide prevention crisis lifeline phone number appearing on every Michigan high school student ID.

CURRENT CHALLENGE: The stigma surrounding mental health is an ongoing challenge, says Liz Baker, AFSP Michigan community

A Love of Literacy

watched her 11-month-old grandson light up when he received a book. The family wasn’t accustomed to reading with the little one and this single interaction changed the course of his life. Today, his books are prized possessions and his grandmother and mother regularly read with him.

CURRENT CHALLENGE: Nearly half of the children from birth to five in Michigan are living in low income homes and are likely without the resources and literacy materials necessary to stimulate and develop learning skills. More than 59 percent of Michigan children are not performing well academically or reading at grade level by the end of third grade. With the help of funding and volunteers, PoWeR! Book Bags aims to shrink these numbers.

SOLUTION: More literacy materials at home. “This enables children to grow their knowledge, skills, dispositions and positive attitudes toward reading and writing for greater success in life,” Murphy Gregory says.

GET INVOLVED: Donate to support Little Learners (ages 0 to 5) or sponsor a pantry or classroom. Sew bags or volunteer to fill bags and prepare books for deliveries. To learn more, email kara@ powerbookbags.org or sign up at powerbookbags.org

Championing

Mental Health

engagement chair and board secretary. “Stopping suicide is going to take everybody,” Baker says. “We all have a part to play in that reduction of stigma. It’s as simple as having those honest conversations and letting people know that it’s okay to talk about mental health and to reach out and get the help that’s needed.”

SOLUTION: Knowing that it’s okay to tell somebody that you are struggling with thoughts of suicide. And, if you’re concerned about someone in your life, being able to ask them directly, “Are you thinking about suicide?”

“Establish that you’re a safe person for the person in crisis to come to,” Baker says. “Show them that you care and that you’re someone to talk to.”

GET INVOLVED: Learn suicide risk signs and warning signs. Schedule workplace and school suicide awareness trainings. Get involved and volunteer with AFSP. Find all of these links and more at afsp.org/michigan

FROM DAM TO FOOTBRIDGE: HELP US RECONNECT TRAILS ON THE EAST & WEST SIDES OF THE BOARDMAN-OTTAWAY RIVER

GRAND TRAVERSE CONSERVATION DISTRICT

Since 1941, the Grand Traverse Conservation District has been serving Grand Traverse County by caring for the Boardman-Ottaway River and actively connecting our community to the land.

After years of careful study to understand the impacts of dam removal, the Grand Traverse Conservation District is eager to reconnect the community with the natural beauty and exceptional recreational opportunities of the Natural Education Reserve.

Make a gift today to help us build a 160-foot pedestrian bridge that will span the Boardman-Ottaway River at the location of the former Sabin Dam.

Named the Ottaway Crossing, in honor of the river’s original name and the indigenous community, this footbridge will reestablish trail connections lost during the removal of the Sabin Dam, providing safe and non-motorized access to the Keystone Soccer Complex, the Great Lakes Incubator Farm, and miles of existing trails on both sides of the river.

EAGLE VILLAGE WHERE

POTENTIAL SOARS

EAGLE VILLAGE IS A PLACE OF SOLUTIONS. This is our 56th year of serving and equipping youth and families for success. We provide a full continuum of services for Michigan’s abused and neglected youth that continually grow and adapt to meet the changing needs of our communities. We offer life changing solutions that compassionately meet individuals where they are as a whole person; mind, body and spirit.

24,018

children were victims of abuse and/or neglect in Michigan in 2023. of those children, birth to 17 years old, were removed from their homes and put into foster care, shelters or residential placement.

8,463

PROBLEM IDENTIFIED

The statistics in Michigan show the reality that thousands of children experience abuse and/or neglect in their homes. The outcome is children who do not feel safe in their homes and have lost trust in the adults who should be protecting them. They live with the fear of not knowing what each day will bring. This population has a high rate of homelessness which leads to a life of lost potential, unrealized value and living without hope.

THOUGHTFUL SOLUTIONS

Eagle Village is solution focused. We use trauma informed therapy, occupational therapy, experiential activities and create individual treatment plans to help each youth work through their trauma. Eagle Village is committed to improving lives and futures and adjust to meet Michigan’s mental health issues. We want each child to realize their value. A concept we teach is that their past doesn’t determine their future. Our goal is to create intentional paths and teach them the skills to help them navigate life; one of change, determination and hope.

The focus is on: emotional, physical, life skills, social, academic, experiential, vocational, spiritual, and community service. The impact of abuse and neglect on Michigan’s children is a critical issue. Eagle Village has offered solutions since 1968.

LIVES WE IMPACTED IN 2023:

5,100

OUR MISSION

Through God’s help and love, we serve, value, and equip children and families for success.

Women’s Health Advocates

THE NONPROFIT: American Heart Association

THEIR MISSION: To be a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives while advancing health and hope for everyone, everywhere.

RECENT SUCCESS STORY: The American Heart Association (AHA) has seen a 15.1 percent reduction in deaths from heart disease since February 2018. Women’s heart health is moving to the research forefront thanks to advocates like Sally Ross Soter, who recently gifted the AHA $15 million. Soter’s generosity will fund numerous research projects while supporting the new Go Red for Women venture fund, which invests in health companies that target cardiovascular, metabolic and neurologic solutions across a woman’s lifespan. The grandmother of 12 was diagnosed with atrial fibrillation in her 50s and has dedicated the last two decades to educating women about the high risks of heart disease.

CURRENT CHALLENGE: Women’s health has long been viewed by investors as a niche market, representing just two percent of the more than $41.2 billion in healthcare venture funding in 2023.

THE NONPROFIT: Grand Traverse Young Life

THEIR MISSION: This Christian organization seeks to introduce adolescents to Jesus Christ and help them grow in their faith. Young Life leaders have been actively sharing this mission in Grand Traverse since 2008, offering positive role models and listening ears for kids.

RECENT SUCCESS STORY: In seventh grade, Sarah joined a local WyldLife middle school club. She returned each year, deepening relationships with peers and school leaders. As she entered high school in 2020, her relationship with Young Life (the high school version of WyldLife) kept her feeling connected while the pandemic made for a challenging freshman year. Fast forward to

That relatively small investment in funding contributes to the disproportionate effect cardiovascular disease has on women in the United States.

SOLUTION: With the help of advocates like Sally, education and prevention around heart disease—the number one killer of women, claiming more lives than all cancers combined—can soar to new heights. Go Red for Women raises awareness about heart disease and helps women take action to prevent it.

GET INVOLVED: Join Sally and learn more about the Go Red for Women venture fund at goredforwomen.org or email West Michigan Executive Director Jana Siminski at jana.siminski@heart.org to donate.

Finding Faith

senior year, Sarah became a WyldLife leader and found joy in inviting others to experience Young Life.

“WyldLife meant a lot to me because I had somewhere to go that allowed me to be my true self,” she says. “I became a leader because I knew there were middle school girls out there who were just like me when I was their age, needing a safe place to go to be themselves.”

CURRENT CHALLENGE: The Grand Traverse Young Life chapter is working hard to increase its reach so that more kids have the opportunity to hear about Christ. A 2025 goal is to know 10 percent of Traverse City middle and high school students’ names.

SOLUTION: Young Life needs more caring adults to join existing ministry teams and to help start new ones in schools where they’re not currently active. Ideally, they’ll be able to recruit an additional seven adults to staff existing teams and 15 to help start new ministries.

GET INVOLVED: Consider joining a direct ministry team for teen moms, middle school or high school students. Spread the word about Young Life. Or become a monthly sustaining donor. Email admin@gtyounglife.org to get involved and hit the Give button at grandtraverse.younglife.org

Building Community in Nature

THE NONPROFIT: Grand Traverse Conservation District

THEIR MISSION: To lead, facilitate and inspire exploration, appreciation, conservation and restoration of our natural world.

RECENT SUCCESS STORY: In its second growing season, the Great Lakes Incubator Farm program has produced nearly two tons of diverse produce, which has been donated to Food Rescue and distributed to regional food pantries. Participating farmers have gained essential knowledge in soil sampling and analysis, crop planning, produce safety, land access, business plan development, plant nutrition and more. One local flower farmer reported increased bouquet volume and successful local

The new 160-foot Ottaway Crossing pedestrian bridge project will connect miles of trails on the east and west side of the river, as well as to the Grand Traverse Conservation District’s Boardman River Nature Center. The $1.2 million project provides a critical non-motorized link to the Keystone Soccer Fields

and the Great Lakes Incubator Farm. It notches an integral piece of community Natural Education Reserve restoration efforts.

SOLUTION: The Grand Traverse Conservation District is actively seeking donations to support the $1.2 million footbridge construction project.

GET INVOLVED: Make a lasting impact on the local natural environment and community by donating to the Ottaway Crossing pedestrian bridge project. Click to support at natureiscalling.org/ campaign.

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Investing in Communities

Community Choice Credit Union’s “Give Big” legacy pays off in more ways than one.

by KIRSETIN K. MORELLO

Studies show that charitable giving and volunteering not only uplift those in need but also enhance our own well-being—boosting mood, happiness and life satisfaction. The idea that helping others helps ourselves isn’t new, but what may come as a surprise is how powerful giving can be for organizations.

Research confirms that promoting corporate volunteerism strengthens workplace culture, fosters community, boosts employee engagement and improves retention. That’s great news for Community Choice Credit Union, where charity is a core value.

“It’s been part of who we are since the beginning,” says Kelsey Royer, volunteer coordinator. Through their foundation, Community Choice strives to make a meaningful difference in the 24 communities they serve—benefiting not only charities but also the team members who support them.

Their Community Choice Foundation champions local causes, funds nonprofits and awards educational scholarships. Through their “Give Big” philosophy, the organization aims to create a lasting, positive change.

Since launching a scholarship program in 2009, Community Choice has awarded $1.5 million to students pursuing higher education, trade schools and continuing education. Each year, 25 students receive a total of $100,000 in scholarships.

Beyond giving financial aid, the credit union encourages team members to give back, offering 24 hours of paid volunteer time annually. In 2023, they smashed their community service goal, logging more than 12,400 hours.

This year, they’re on pace to exceed expectations once again. September holds special significance, marking their “Give Big” month—an initiative that started as a single day and has grown into a month-long celebration of giving.

Each member center and department organize unique opportunities to serve, amplifying the impact across all 24 communities. “We walk the walk,” Royer emphasizes. “We empower our team to serve and we provide the tools to make it happen.”

Community Choice's “Give Big” mindset means giving their best to the community. “Whether it’s through volunteering or donations, our team members give their all—just as they always do.”

Volunteer work spans a variety of initiatives, from helping at food pantries to assembling and distributing hygiene kits and building wheelchair ramps for homes of those in need.

Signature events like the annual Back-to-School Bash equip 3,200 students in eight communities with school supplies and backpacks. “We want to remove the stigma of receiving free supplies,” Royer explains.

To do this, they’ve included petting zoos, bouncy houses and snow cone machines at the events and offered free haircuts and eyeglasses repair. “Our member center managers bring creativity to life at these events,” Royer adds. “They work hard to make it fun for the kids while providing something essential.”

While 47 percent of U.S. companies offer employees volunteer opportunities, Community Choice takes it a step further—they involve their members, too. This year, they launched a member volunteer program to spotlight customers who are also giving back.

“Each quarter, we recognize a member who volunteers in the community,” Royer explains. The organization then donates to that member’s chosen organization. “It’s a great way to celebrate our members’ contributions and support causes that matter to them.”

As one of their guiding principles, charity is embedded in Community Choice's culture. It’s evident that they take their slogan, “people helping people,” to heart.

Mark your calendar!

Community Choice's scholarship applications open in December. Visit their website for details.

pnntc.org pnntcmi@gmail.com Your local personal network for living with

We offer support through:

• Day and evening support groups every month

• Friendship and socialization

• Shared ideas for daily living

• Research and treatment updates

• Parkinson’s summer forum (May 2025, our 39th)

Hope Starts Here.

SUPPORT ENTREPRENEURS IN NORTHERN MICHIGAN

20Fathoms

Community

Mentorship

GIVING DIRECTORY

ACME CHRISTIAN THRIFT STORE & FOOD PANTRY

8925 M72 E, Williamsburg, MI 49690

231.938.2990 •acmechristian.org

Find out more on page 53

AMERICAN FOUNDATION FOR SUICIDE PREVENTION (MICHIGAN)

33717 Woodward #238, Birmingham, MI 48009

810.701.7790 •afsp.org/michigan

Find out more on page 48

EAGLE VILLAGE

5044 175th Ave., Hersey, MI 49639

231.305.6511 •eaglevillage.org

Find out more on page 56

GRAND TRAVERSE CONSERVATION DISTRICT

1450 Cass Rd., Traverse City, MI 49685

231.941.0960 • natureiscalling.org

Find out more on page 55

GRAND TRAVERSE REGIONAL LAND CONSERVANCY

2846 3 Mile Rd N, Traverse City, MI 49686

231.929.7911 • gtrlc.org

Find out more on page 44

GROW BENZIE

5885 Frankfort Hwy, Benzonia, MI 49616

231.882.9510 • growbenzie.org

Find out more on page 58

INTERLOCHEN CENTER FOR THE ARTS

4000 J Maddy PKWY, Interlochen, MI 49643

231.276.7200 • interlochen.org

Find out more on page 42

INTERLOCHEN PUBLIC RADIO

9350 Lyon St, Interlochen, MI 49643

231.276.4400 • interlochenpublicradio.org

Find out more on page 54

LAKE ANN CAMP

18400 Maple St, Lake Ann, MI 49650

231.275.7329 • lakeanncamp.com

Find out more on page 42

MUSIC HOUSE MUSEUM

7377 US 31 North, Williamsburg, MI 49690

231.938.9300 • musichouse.org

Find out more on page 63

PARKINSON’S NETWORK NORTH

PO Box 5734, Traverse City, MI 49696

Web: pnntc.org • Email: pnntcmi@gmail.com

Find out more on page 63

POWER! BOOK BAGS

PO Box 533, Suttons Bay, MI 49682

231.866-6199 •powerbookbags.org

Find out more on page 52

YOUR DONATIONS CHANGE LIVES

FOCUSING ON NUTRITION

Our Food Rescue program delivers 8,000 pounds of nutritious food a day to food pantries and community meal sites — enough to make 6,500 meals! 80% is fresh or frozen fruit, vegetables, bread, meat, and dairy. Thanks to your donations, we do it all at no cost to the pantries!

TRANSFORMING LIVES

Goodwill is expanding access to the life-saving housing needed by our most vulnerable neighbors: housing with supports. On-site case workers help people hold on to their housing, reach their goals, and reintegrate into community.

Bringing food to neighbors and helping people find home

ENDING HOMELESSNESS

Your donations help over 1,000 people access our Goodwill Inn shelter, Street Outreach team, and in-home case managers last year. They help people transition from the streets and shelter to long-term housing success. Your donations provide hope and save lives.

DELIVERING LOCAL PRODUCE

We work with 78 local farms, 300 dedicated volunteers, and area farmers markets to harvest, pick up, and deliver produce from local farm fields to the 16,000 people who use food pantries and meal sites in the Grand Traverse Area.

GOOD MEALS

SERVING MEALS

Every day of the year, our Good Meals team and amazing volunteers serve meals to guests at our Goodwill Inn homeless shelter. Our Good Meals kitchen team also makes meals for NMCAA’s Meals on Wheels program, whipping up 200,000 good meals a year for neighbors in need!

RECYCLING AND REUSING

When you donate items at our convenient drive-thru centers, we turn them into funding for our Food Rescue and homeless programs. We repurpose and reuse nine million pounds of donations a year, and it all helps our neighbors in need!

HOUSING & HOMELESS SERVICES FOOD RESCUE

HEALTHY HARVEST

THRIFT STORES

HOUSING & HOMELESS SERVICES