Hello, Friends —
We are pleased to share some thoughts today about personal mission and community engagement from our board chair, Cheryl Hutchinson, who is also a member of our Corporate and Community Partnership Program.—Stephanie Prall
What’s your Groundwork story?
Fortunate to grow up in Traverse City and Suttons Bay and graduate from Michigan State University, I wandered West for a majority of my adult life. Spent most of my energy in the past 20 years developing LEED Platinum sustainable buildings and restoring historical buildings. Drawn back to Northern Michigan and Leelanau County, recent projects include the restoration of the Suttons Bay Stone Schoolhouse, originally built in 1906, and a homestead very close to my heart and childhood—an 1890s home on Lee Point.
My siblings, all living outside the area and across the country, were excited about both projects and introduced me to like-minded creators. One friend was on the Groundwork Board of Directors, Tim Pulliam from KEEN Technical Solutions. Tim introduced me to Groundwork at a gathering at The Little Fleet. The sincerity, integrity and missions of Groundwork prompted me go ALL IN on seeing how to contribute and integrate my work and passions.
Do the 22 is a vacation property rental company dedicated to celebrating and protecting Leelanau County. dothe22.com
How does Groundwork align with what is important in your work?
Groundwork has a powerful collection of smart and mindful people on staff, board, and advisory council with amazing supporters in the community. I admire the collective approach to solving small and large community needs. I’m passionate about clean water, accessibility to healthy fresh local foods, and leading intelligent growth in housing and transportation.
Why do you choose to support Groundwork?
I believe in the programs and trust the people. The leadership is thoughtful and inclusive and has a sustainable methodology that fosters future success.
What is something you are currently excited about in your work and something on the horizon?
I’m engaged with several next generation thinkers I’ve met thru Groundwork, creating wellness retreats that integrate healthy food, body work and soulful lifestyles options.
What’s something that you love about your local and sustainable community?
I love the influx of new and younger farmers, chefs, and other entrepreneurs who are collaborating with longtime local innovators, creating thoughtful, meaningful businesses that provide healthy options for our community.
What is your niche in the community and your market?
I like to think I’m a conduit for connecting people and making things happen. Providing like-minded people a space to explore and nurture our natural resources is my passion.
What does community mean to you?
The hearts and minds of our community will move us closer to reclaiming the energy of nature in everyday life. Through fellowship there is an interconnected strength that bonds. Community is a powerful collective of believing in each other. 
Questions about Groundwork’s Corporate & Community Partnership Program? Check our website or contact Stephanie Prall, stephanie.prall@groundworkcenter.org, for more information.
Stephanie Prall, Groundwork Development Specialist
stephanie.prall@groundworkcenter.org
