give NORTHERN MICHIGAN
DOWNTOWN TRAVERSE CITY ASSOCIATION
Walkable, Livable, Remarkable! Traverse City residents have periodically flirted with the idea of turning downtown Front Street into a pedestrian mall. And while that’s likely not happening anytime soon, Downtown Traverse City Association’s recent rehab of the Warehouse District provides a more-than-respectable walkable alternative. The nonprofit’s retooling of Garland Street doesn’t officially close the district to traffic, but the Dutch-inspired, curbless, cobblestone-esque design provides a natural deterrent to cars, while putting the pedestrian experience front and center. “We just felt like it was time to focus on that area and support all the new businesses—as well as the pioneers— who have helped make it a special place,” says Downtown TC’s Colleen Paveglio. Next up, the group is aiming to pour energy into some of its flagship legacy institutions, including the Traverse City Farmers Market. In the coming year, DTCA will kick off the first phase of a fundraising campaign to improve the navigability of the bustling market and better utilize the nearby riverfront. They also plan to continue investing in partnerships with other community nonprofits that make events like Friday Night Live! and Shop Your Community Day
such powerful placemaking events. Of course, if you’re a fan of vibrant Main Streets, don’t miss your chance to support all of Downtown TC’s work at the group’s annual chili cook-off fundraiser in January. —L.B.
GRAND TRAVERSE PAVILIONS
Compassionate Care wide array of options—ranging from full-time nursing care to assisted living programs to a state-of-the-art wellness center—it also gives families confidence that their loved ones will be receiving quality, compassionate care. In
TOP: COURTESY OF DOWNTOWN TRAVERSE CITY ASSOCIATION
Choosing the right kind of elder care can be one of the most complicated challenges families face. But the Grand Traverse Pavilions strives to make the process as smooth as possible. Not only does the nonprofit provide a
SPONSORED CONTENT
2017, the organization earned the “Gold Seal” accreditation from The Joint Commission, which certifies healthcare organizations and programs all across the country. The new designation makes the GT Pavilions the first Gold Seal facility in Traverse City—and one of just a handful in the state. In coming years, look for even more care options, as the organization continues a push to bring the federal PACE program to northern Michigan. The initiative supports innovative independent living options for seniors by helping coordinate everything from doctor appointments to medication deliveries to visits from friends. And of course, one of the Pavilions’ biggest draws has always been its serene setting on the grounds of the Grand Traverse Commons. You can do your part to maintain that natural asset when the Pavilions undertakes a campus-wide beautification project this spring. —L.B.
give
NORTHERN MICHIGAN
7