The Groundwork Center in early April hired Jennifer Schaap to join the Traverse City-based nonprofit’s food and farming program team. Schaap, a longtime Petoskey resident, brings a wealth of experience, relationships, and knowledge about the regional food system.
The innovative pop-up tent maker TentCraft is a leader in attracting knowledge-based talent to Traverse City. The company has also created dozens of manufacturing jobs, has an “infants in the workplace” program, and recently launched a CSA-based employee wellness plan.
The Michigan Legislature is considering whether to continue, or expand, the impactful 10 Cents a Meal state pilot project that is increasing business from schools for a significant number of farms and related food companies throughout Michigan. A state Senate subcommittee has included continued funding, but the House, so far, has not. Visit www.TenCentsMichigan.org to learn how to contact your local legislator.
Tech entrepreneur, startup investor and philanthropist Casey Cowell has joined Groundwork’s Board of Directors. In 1976, Cowell and friends created U.S. Robotics, which developed the world’s first computer modem. The Cowell Cancer Center at Munson Medical Center in Traverse City recently opened, exemplifying his commitment to healthful communities. Cowell wants to help foster healthful communities in northern Michigan, as well as expand the region’s growing tech scene and create jobs in Traverse City.
FoodCorps service member Lindsay Hall describes the innovative and delicious school lunches and food-based curriculum at Boyne Falls. Hall works together with Groundwork and Michigan State University Extension.
Mike Depolo, Jeff Gietzen, Cheryl Hutchinson, Alison Metiva and Teresa Newmarch recently joined the advisory council at the Groundwork Center for Resilient Communities.