What's Traverse City Thankful For?

With Thanksgiving upon us, we asked local leaders, “What are you thankful for this year?” From watching their communities step up for each other during tough times to spending the holidays with family, here’s what they had to say:

“After turnover this year, I’m deeply thankful for our team during this time of transition, for the dedication and care shown by those handing off responsibilities, and for the energy and commitment of those stepping in. Their hard work, cooperation, and shared belief in our mission make this moment one of strength and gratitude.” – Chad Lindsey, Executive Director, City Opera House

“To serve with purpose, alongside compassionate professionals who live our promise, ‘Committed to You.’ Each day, I witness the awe-inspiring impact of personalized, high-quality care in our communities. I’m deeply thankful to be part of something so meaningful." – Jennifer Standfest, Chief Nursing Officer, Munson Healthcare

“For the gracious welcome I have received as the new director of the Grand Traverse County Senior Center Network. The seniors in our community and partners in senior supporting organizations have given me their support and encouragement and I am incredibly grateful.” – Lacey Edgecomb, Director, Grand Traverse County’s Senior Center Network

“For the way our new and returning staff have come together to create such a positive and welcoming culture at East Middle School. Watching new team members blend seamlessly with our established staff to support students and one another has been incredibly rewarding. It’s a true reflection of the caring, community-minded spirit that makes EMS such a special place.” – Ryan Ranger, East Middle School Lead Principal

“For our caring school community where students' lives are enriched by collaboration among staff, parents, and community volunteers. Activities organized by the Willow Hill Parent Teacher Organization are accessible to families and planned with the intent of creating opportunities for connection. Willow Hill outreach to the greater community has included many years of food drives and Holiday gifting programs.” – Angela Sides-McKay, Willow Hill Elementary Principal

“I am especially thankful for the Student Support Network (SSN) Pop-Up Shops (seasonal events where families can shop for free, gently used, and new items privately and safely by appointment.)Each shopping experience is a true full-circle moment of collaboration between our community, families, and school programs. From the generous donations of goods and time to the parents and caregivers who empower themselves to seek help and shop for their children, the events are an inspiring display of care and connection. I am also deeply grateful to the staff and volunteers who help make it all happen – their behind-the-scenes efforts and encouraging words create a welcoming and positive experience for everyone involved.” – Katie Kubesh, SSN Coordinator

“Given the challenges and uncertainties many of our small business clients are facing, I’m profoundly grateful for the philanthropy and foundation partners whose support allows us to continue serving people and businesses in meaningful ways. Personally, I’m thankful that our kids – all attending colleges here in Michigan – will soon be home for the holidays. Their homecoming is something I truly look forward to each year.” – Laura Galbraith, President, Venture North Funding

“The incredible providers who continue to lead with trust and flexibility through uncertainty and change. Their unwavering commitment to ending homelessness reminds us that compassion and collaboration can thrive, even in uncertain times.” – Ashley Halladay-Schmandt, Director of Northwest Michigan Coalition to End Homelessness

“The generosity of our community. From attending volunteer training, to building a kids play area at our emergency shelter, to raking leaves at our main office, and donating their used clothing and household items to our Thrift Stores. When the WRC needs something, our community really shows up! We are blessed to be here to protect, shelter and empower for survivors of domestic and sexual violence because our community believes in and supports our Mission.” – Juliette Schultz, Executive Director, Women’s Resource Center

“The Traverse City Police Department is thankful for the 60+ partner agencies who support the Quick Response Team and our vulnerable community. Your collaboration and dedication to providing housing, prioritizing appointments, and treatment engagement helps address community ‘potholes.’ Wishing you the same joy you bring to others this season.” – Jennifer Holm, Police Social Worker Coordinator

“I am thankful for much here at Peninsula Community Library - great staff, supportive board and wonderful patrons. I am most thankful for my community. In an era where libraries are under attack, I am in a place where people value the freedom to read.” – Vicki Shurly, Director of Peninsula Community Library

“Our incredible community of dedicated volunteers that give so much to build our gardens and cultivate our story at the Botanic Garden at Historic Barns Park. Their contributions have made a tremendous impact on Traverse City.” – Matthew Ross, Executive Director of The Botanic Garden at Historic Barns Park

“In these uncertain times, I’m deeply grateful for the simple gift of stepping outside. Nature has a way of holding us steady. The whisper of trees, the sparkle of water, and the vastness of sky restore and heal us all.” – Sakura Takano, CEO, Rotary Charities of Traverse City

“We are profoundly grateful for our community’s enduring connection to nature and for the supporters making the Natural Education Reserve and the Boardman River Nature Center into a premier destination right here in Traverse City. Watching families explore reminds us why our more than 80-year commitment to conservation matters for future generations.” – Koffi Kpachavi, Executive Director, Grand Traverse Conservation District

“This Thanksgiving, I’m grateful our region had the opportunity to shine at the Oceans 2025 conference. Traverse City’s BlueTech and freshwater research leadership made a global impression—reminding me how thankful I am for the innovation, collaboration, and environmental stewardship thriving in our own backyard.” – Warren Call, President and CEO, Traverse Connect

“I’m thankful to see NMC healthy and growing, and grateful for the community that makes it possible. Together, we’re building on 75 years of success and entering an exciting new chapter, one shaped by our shared commitment to students and tailored for the future of our region." – Nick Nissley, President, NMC

Subjects pictured top-bottom/left-right