Building a Stronger Lansing: Laurie Baumer’s Vision for Community and Connection

When it comes to building stronger communities, few leaders bring as much heart, vision, and collaboration to the table as Laurie Baumer, President and CEO of the Community Foundation in Greater Lansing. In her conversation with Mission Control host Paul J. Schmidt, Laurie reflects on her journey through nonprofit leadership, the lessons she’s learned along the way, and the collective power that drives real, lasting change across Mid-Michigan.

From the start, Laurie makes it clear that her work at the Community Foundation is about more than grants and donations—it’s about creating vibrant, connected communities across Ingham, Eaton, and Clinton counties. The Foundation serves as a trusted partner for donors, nonprofits, and local leaders, channeling generosity into meaningful impact. “Our mission is really about building a region where everyone can thrive,” Laurie shares. “We connect people who care with causes that matter.”

A Riverfront Reimagined

One of the Foundation’s most visible impacts can be found right along the Lansing riverfront—a project Laurie calls both a strategic and emotional investment in the community’s future. When she and her team began exploring economic development opportunities, they noticed something missing: a cohesive plan to make the riverfront a true destination.

Through partnerships, vision, and persistence, that gap became an opportunity. Projects like Rotary Park and Fish Ladder Music Park have redefined how people experience downtown Lansing. What was once overlooked has become a gathering place for concerts, festivals, and everyday connection.

Laurie recalls that not everyone saw the vision at first. “There was skepticism,” she admits. “But once people experienced it—once they saw families playing by the water, music in the air, and businesses coming alive nearby—the excitement grew. It became a symbol of what’s possible when we work together.”

The riverfront transformation stands as a shining example of placemaking done right—where community pride and economic momentum meet to create something that truly belongs to everyone.

The Path to Philanthropy

Laurie’s journey into fundraising wasn’t a straight line. Early in her career, she worked in advertising and state government, sharpening her communication and leadership skills before finding her true calling in the nonprofit world.

It began with volunteer work at the Humane Society, where she quickly discovered a passion for connecting people to purpose. Under the guidance of a seasoned mentor during a major capital campaign, she learned the art of fundraising—not as a transaction, but as a relationship.

“Fundraising is really about storytelling,” Laurie explains. “It’s about showing people the incredible work nonprofits are doing and giving them a chance to be part of that success. When donors see both the need and the impact, it builds trust—and that’s where transformation happens.”

From Ele’s Place to Community Foundation

Before joining the Community Foundation, Laurie spent sixteen impactful years at Ele’s Place, an organization that provides grief support for children and families. There, she applied her marketing background to expand fundraising, awareness, and mission growth during some of the organization’s most pivotal years.

Her transition to the Community Foundation came naturally. “After so many years focused on one mission, I was ready to take what I’d learned and apply it to something broader,” Laurie reflects. “The Foundation gives me the opportunity to support hundreds of causes—each one making our region stronger in its own way.”

Leading Through Challenge

When the COVID-19 pandemic struck, Laurie’s leadership and foresight were put to the test. Years of building organizational strength paid off as the Foundation pivoted quickly, shifting grant priorities and deepening collaborations with partners like United Way to support nonprofits facing unprecedented challenges.

“Those relationships we’d been nurturing for years became essential,” she says. “We weren’t just funding projects—we were helping sustain the heartbeat of our community.”

The experience reinforced her belief that trust and preparation are the foundation of resilience.

New Energy, New Initiatives

Today, the Community Foundation is moving boldly into its next chapter. Laurie highlights the momentum of the Community Investment team, a dedicated group driving fresh energy into regional initiatives and donor engagement.

With new board leadership and a renewed focus on riverfront development, the Foundation continues to champion projects that bring people together. Laurie is particularly passionate about cultivating local leaders and CEOs as champions for change—people who can use their influence to strengthen the fabric of downtown Lansing and beyond.

“Our role is to help them see how their investment—financially or through leadership—can transform a community,” she says. “It’s about building champions, not just checking boxes.”

Grounded in Faith and Connection

Amid the constant pace of leadership, Laurie finds balance in moments of stillness—spending time at Higgins Lake, reflecting on nature, and leaning into her faith. It’s a reminder that even the most community-minded leaders need space to recharge.

“Faith keeps me grounded,” she shares. “It reminds me why this work matters—not just for today, but for the generations that will follow.”

Looking Ahead

Laurie Baumer’s story is one of vision, collaboration, and heart. From transforming the Lansing riverfront to empowering nonprofits through trust and partnership, her leadership continues to shape the region’s future in meaningful ways.

As she looks ahead, Laurie remains focused on one simple truth: lasting change begins with connection. And through the work of the Community Foundation in Greater Lansing, those connections are building a stronger, more vibrant Mid-Michigan—one relationship at a time.

To learn more, visit ourcommunity.org or follow Capital Region Community Foundation on **LinkedIn** and **Facebook**. And to hear Laurie’s full conversation with Paul J. Schmidt, check out the *Mission Control* podcast—where stories like hers remind us that every act of giving begins with connection.

When it comes to tackling poverty across Michigan, few organizations have captured the spirit of collaboration and innovation quite like **Storehouse for Community Resources**. Featured on the *Mission Control* podcast with host **Paul J. Schmidt**, Executive Director **Jessica Johns** shared how this remarkable nonprofit has grown from a humble idea into a statewide force for good—connecting resources, organizations, and communities in ways that truly multiply impact.

### A Mission That Multiplies Good

At its heart, Storehouse has a clear and ambitious purpose: **to decrease poverty and increase prosperity in communities across Michigan.** It’s a mission rooted in practicality and powered by faith. Instead of focusing solely on direct aid, Storehouse bridges the gap between abundance and need—redistributing essential goods from manufacturers, retailers, and big-box stores to nonprofits, schools, and churches that serve people every day.

Think of it as a *Costco for nonprofits.* Inside Storehouse’s **35,000-square-foot warehouse**, partners push carts through aisles stocked with bedding, hygiene products, clothing, and office supplies—all available at a fraction of retail cost. Every cart filled saves local nonprofits dollars that can be reinvested directly into their programs and people.

As Jessica explains, “You’re literally shopping for the supplies you need. The space is designed to make giving efficient—and even a little fun.”

### From Classroom to Community Builder

Jessica’s journey to this role began far from warehouse floors. A former **teacher**, she spent years in the classroom, witnessing firsthand how poverty limits opportunity. Growing up in a large family herself, she understood what it meant to make do with little—and that empathy became her compass.

“I grew up in poverty,” she shared. “It was always inside me to want to give back.”

That calling deepened while volunteering at a Michigan food bank, where Jessica noticed a glaring need for personal care items. When a broker offered to donate these products—but only to a registered nonprofit—she and her friend **Nora Rooter** took a leap of faith and founded Storehouse.

They had no warehouse, no funding, and no experience. What they *did* have was determination, community spirit, and a belief that God had placed this work on their hearts.

### Building a Warehouse of Hope

From its early days in a borrowed church facility to its current bustling warehouse, Storehouse’s growth has been fueled by both ingenuity and grit.

The first truckload of donations—sourced through a partnership with **World Vision**—arrived overflowing with everything from shoes to pillows. At first, the sheer volume was overwhelming. Then, within days, another nonprofit called needing pillows for families in crisis. The alignment felt like fate. “There was probably more here than we realized,” Jessica said.

Moments like that cemented the organization’s model: acting as a **connector**, not a competitor, within Michigan’s charitable ecosystem. By equipping other nonprofits with the materials they need, Storehouse empowers them to do more of what they do best.

### Scaling Across Michigan

What started as one truckload of supplies has evolved into a statewide network. Storehouse now serves **over 40 counties**, with a goal of reaching all 80 in the coming years. Expansion isn’t just about opening new buildings—it’s about building relationships.

Jessica spends time at Rotary meetings, community events, and nonprofit roundtables, spreading the word and inviting people to tour the space. Once visitors see the operation in person, they rarely forget it. “Once you come, you find it intriguing,” she said. “You go back and talk about it.”

That word-of-mouth momentum has carried Storehouse into new communities across Michigan, proving that good work travels fast when it’s rooted in authenticity.

### Faith, Family, and Leadership

Jessica’s leadership style draws directly from her teaching background. One principle has guided her from the classroom to the warehouse floor: **“Model, model, model.”** She believes in showing, not telling—whether it’s leading a team, welcoming volunteers, or fostering collaboration between nonprofits.

Volunteers remain the heartbeat of Storehouse. Some have been with the organization since its very first shipments, and many corporate and college groups now join in for team-building days of sorting, packing, and organizing goods. Jessica calls them “the OGs,” a testament to how integral they’ve become to the mission.

Beyond Storehouse, Jessica finds balance in family life. A proud mom of three boys, she recharges by hiking, traveling, and unplugging outdoors. “Just being outside and enjoying nature,” she says, is her way to reset after days filled with constant motion.

### Technology and the Next Chapter

As Storehouse grows, Jessica envisions technology as the key to deeper impact. A custom inventory and tracking system already allows the team to monitor thousands of donated items, right down to the last pillow. The next phase? A **statewide digital platform** that matches community needs with available resources—connecting donors, distributors, and nonprofits through real-time data.

She also dreams of expanding into **housing and workforce support**, sourcing larger materials like flooring and fixtures to help families achieve long-term stability. “If we want to support sustainable housing,” Jessica says, “we need to gather those other resources, too.”

### The Power of Community

Nine years in, Storehouse stands as proof that generosity scales best when powered by collaboration. Every shipment, volunteer hour, and saved dollar creates ripples of impact across Michigan.

Jessica’s favorite moments are the quiet ones—when she overhears other nonprofit leaders talking about Storehouse’s impact without realizing she’s in the room. “That’s when it really hits,” she says. “We’re making a difference out there.”

Her message, and Storehouse’s philosophy, is simple but profound: *If we lean in and work together, our collective impact will always be greater than what we can do alone.*

To learn more, visit **[storehousemi.org](https://storehousemi.org)** or follow Storehouse for Community Resources on **LinkedIn** and **Facebook**. And to hear Jessica’s full conversation with Paul J. Schmidt, check out the *Mission Control* podcast—where stories like hers remind us that every act of giving begins with connection.

**Building Community, Impact, and Resilience: The Mission Control Podcast with Glenn Wilson**

The *Mission Control Podcast*—hosted by Paul Schmidt of **UnoDeuce Multimedia**—has become a platform for nonprofit leaders to share how they “make it happen” in their communities. In one particularly inspiring episode, Schmidt sits down with **Glenn Wilson**, founder, president, and CEO of **Communities First Incorporated**, to explore what it takes to transform neighborhoods, build resilience, and spark meaningful change.

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### From Football Dreams to Community Builder

Before he was a nonprofit executive, Glenn Wilson dreamed of playing professional football. His plan was simple: make it to the NFL, then return to his hometown of Flint, Michigan, to help rebuild the neighborhoods he loved. When injuries ended that dream, he pivoted—bringing the same grit and vision to a new playing field.

Through years of experience in healthcare, transportation, and public service, Wilson recognized a deep need for affordable housing and community revitalization. With encouragement from his wife, Essence, he sold his business and committed three years to see what impact he could make. Fifteen years later, **Communities First Incorporated** has grown into a regional powerhouse for social and economic change.

> “I really wonder if I can do something in our community that would have lasting change.” — *Glenn Wilson*

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### Launching in a Recession: Faith and Tenacity

Starting a nonprofit in 2008—at the height of the recession—wasn’t for the faint of heart. As Wilson recalls, “Everybody told me I was crazy.” While others focused on demolition and downsizing, he saw potential in old buildings and struggling neighborhoods. His vision took shape with the **Oak Street Senior Apartments**, one of the first adaptive reuses of a school building for affordable senior housing in the country.

For the first four years, Glenn and Essence ran the organization themselves, doing everything from finance to fieldwork. Their perseverance paid off—laying the groundwork for what would become one of Michigan’s most respected community development nonprofits.

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### Building on Financial Integrity

Wilson believes that the difference between dreamers and doers often comes down to one word: **accountability**. Early in the organization’s journey, he prioritized fiscal responsibility—hiring a contract CFO and conducting a full audit on just $10,000 in the bank.

“Fiscal responsibility is one of the things that usually keeps nonprofits from excelling,” Wilson says. That decision built trust with funders and opened doors for future growth. Today, Communities First employs over 40 staff members across multiple states.

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### The Power of Storytelling

As both Wilson and Schmidt agree, storytelling is at the heart of effective leadership. For Wilson, it’s about connecting emotionally—sharing not just what the organization does, but *why* it matters.

“Your best salesperson is you,” Wilson notes. “If you can’t tell people why they should walk alongside you, you need to find someone who can.”

By being transparent about his own experiences—like losing a home to a fire—Wilson has helped others see the human side of the housing crisis. Storytelling, he says, turns empathy into action and recruits allies who believe in the mission.

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### Flint’s True Story: Resilience Over Ruin

Flint has faced its share of challenges—from the decline of GM to the water crisis and COVID-19—but Wilson refuses to let those hardships define the city.

“You can either be the person to impact your environment or you can let your environment impact you,” he says. “I choose to impact my environment.”

Under his leadership, Communities First has emphasized collaboration—working alongside other nonprofits, civic leaders, and residents to foster resilience and renewal.

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### Entrepreneurial Spirit in a Nonprofit World

Wilson’s business background has shaped his nonprofit philosophy: to be **mission-focused but business-minded**. He teaches that a sustainable nonprofit must operate like a smart business—strategically managing income, expenses, and talent while staying true to its core mission.

“It’s about being mission-focused, but being business-minded as a nonprofit,” he explains. “At the end of the day, it’s still a business.”

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### Communities First’s Three Pillars

Wilson describes Communities First’s work through three interconnected pillars:

1. **Economic Mobility** – Helping families build wealth through financial education and advocacy.
2. **Equitable Real Estate Development** – Creating and managing affordable housing through innovative projects, such as transforming old schools and factories into livable spaces.
3. **Engaged Communities** – Hosting more than 90 community events annually, advocating for policy change, and fostering civic engagement across Michigan and beyond.

With projects spanning Flint, Lansing, Detroit, and even Indiana, Communities First adapts to each community’s unique needs while maintaining its commitment to equity and inclusion.

—

### Leading Through Service and Collaboration

Beyond his work at Communities First, Wilson serves on numerous boards—including the Community Economic Development Association of Michigan and the Mass Transportation Authority. For him, board service is about adding value and learning from others.

“You’re supposed to serve on boards because it means something to you, and you feel like you can add value,” he says.

These experiences have deepened his understanding of the intersection between community needs, corporate responsibility, and public policy—further fueling his commitment to collaborative leadership.

—

### Lessons for Nonprofit Leaders

Fifteen years into his journey, Wilson offers timeless advice for nonprofit professionals:

1. **Lead with Your Story** – Authenticity inspires action.
2. **Balance Mission and Money** – Sustainability requires both purpose and prudence.
3. **Value Collaboration** – Collective wisdom strengthens communities.
4. **Stay Passionate** – Let the work energize, not exhaust, you.
5. **Invest in Talent and Technology** – Efficiency and skill drive long-term success.

> “We can focus on the good or we can focus on the bad. I choose to impact my environment.” — *Glenn Wilson*

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### Why Glenn’s Approach Matters

Wilson’s journey from aspiring athlete to transformational leader embodies what *Mission Control* is all about—ordinary people doing extraordinary things through purpose-driven work. His blend of vision, storytelling, and disciplined strategy offers a roadmap for nonprofit leaders everywhere.

For anyone looking to start or sustain a mission-driven organization, Glenn’s story is proof that **community impact begins with personal conviction**—and grows through collaboration, resilience, and relentless belief in what’s possible.

To learn more about Communities First Incorporated, visit [communitiesfirstinc.org](https://communitiesfirstinc.org).
Listen to the full conversation on the *Mission Control Podcast*, available on Spotify, YouTube, and all major podcast platforms.

—

**“You have something to say. We just got to figure out how to channel that and how to get it out.” — Paul Schmidt**

Together, Wilson and Schmidt remind listeners that progress happens when passion meets purpose—and when people keep showing up to build better communities, one story at a time.

The Mission Control podcast is where nonprofit stories and leadership lessons take center stage. Hosted by **Paul J Schmidt**, each episode offers candid conversations with leaders who are making meaningful change in their communities. In this episode, Paul welcomes his friend Beth Read, founder and executive director of **TWIGS**, a Michigan nonprofit dedicated to easing the daily burdens of families navigating cancer.

Beth’s warmth, humor, and authenticity shine throughout the conversation. Even her loyal dog, Murphy, makes a cameo, reminding listeners that nonprofit work—like life itself—is rarely polished but always real.

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## The Heart Behind TWIGS

TWIGS exists to *lift everyday burdens from cancer patients and their families so they can concentrate on healing and spending time with loved ones.* This mission is both practical and deeply personal for Beth.

The name “TWIGS” carries a story of its own. An acronym for *to work in grateful service,* it was also Beth’s mother’s high school nickname. Beth founded the organization in her mother’s honor—not to mark her illness, but to celebrate her spirit of giving.

Beth’s mother was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and given a year to live. She fought for nearly three years, which gave her family more time to make memories. Beth’s family had access to support systems that eased their daily lives. But she quickly realized many families in her community had no such help. TWIGS was born out of that awareness: a way to extend support services like rides, housekeeping, yard work, and errands to families who need it most.

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## Starting Small, Growing Steady

Beth’s leap into nonprofit leadership came during the pandemic. Though she had zero nonprofit experience, she brought a strong background in business, real estate, and management. She leaned into her research skills, asked plenty of questions, and surrounded herself with people who knew more than she did.

“Let’s help one person and see what this looks like,” Beth recalls. That philosophy shaped TWIGS’ early growth. By focusing on one family at a time, TWIGS built trust and found its rhythm despite COVID delays and unexpected setbacks.

Collaboration was crucial from day one. Friends, colleagues, and board members like Kate—who brought both personal cancer experience and professional expertise—helped transform Beth’s vision into a functioning nonprofit.

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## Leadership Lessons Along the Way

Beth is the first to admit she learned nonprofit leadership by doing. She drew on past business experience but also adapted to the unique challenges of running a mission-driven organization.

Her leadership style is grounded in empathy and example. “I’ll never ask you to do something I won’t do myself,” she says. In TWIGS’ early days, Beth personally cleaned homes, weeded gardens, and drove patients before inviting volunteers to join.

Key takeaways from her leadership journey include:

* **Lead by example**: Show willingness before asking others.
* **Practice empathy**: Volunteers give their time freely; respect is non-negotiable.
* **Fill your gaps**: Surround yourself with people who bring skills and knowledge you lack.
* **Stay accountable**: Use mentors, coaches, or peers to help manage time and energy.

Beth also highlights the importance of passion. “You have to really believe in your cause,” she says. Without that conviction, burnout comes quickly.

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## The Volunteer Journey

For grassroots nonprofits, building a reliable volunteer base is often the turning point. TWIGS was no exception.

At first, Beth handled nearly every task herself. Gradually, volunteers joined, especially to provide rides to medical appointments—a critical service for cancer patients. Many of these volunteers had personal connections to cancer, which helped build trust with clients.

A local news feature gave TWIGS wider exposure, sparking a wave of new applications, especially from retirees. Today, Beth says volunteers “fight over shifts” to help. She describes them as “amazing humans” and emphasizes her deep gratitude: “I could hug every one of these people.”

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## Challenges and Growth

Like any young nonprofit, TWIGS faced hurdles. Some families were hesitant to accept help. Gaining trust in the community took patience. And fundraising—always an uphill climb—sometimes felt uncomfortable.

Still, TWIGS persevered. Nearly 100 people have been served in just four years, a testament to steady growth and unwavering dedication. For Beth, every donation, every volunteer, and every family supported is a milestone worth celebrating.

Looking ahead, her goals include securing sustainable funding to support paid staff, expanding programming, and ensuring TWIGS can continue meeting the needs of families for years to come.

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## Beyond the Hustle: Finding Balance

Running a nonprofit while juggling family life and a career in real estate leaves little downtime. Yet Beth emphasizes the importance of self-care. Long walks with Murphy, yoga, coffee dates with friends, and fiction reading provide balance and renewal.

“You need someone who’s going to hold you accountable for your time,” she explains, crediting her business coach for helping her stay focused and organized.

—

## Collaboration Over Competition

Beth is quick to point out that nonprofits thrive when they work together. TWIGS partners with local foundations and other organizations like Child and Family Services, Helping Women Period, and the Davies Project. For her, there’s no sense of competition. “There’s enough love to go around,” she says.

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## Final Thoughts

Beth Read’s story, shared on the Mission Control podcast with **Paul J Schmidt**, is a testament to what happens when personal passion meets community need. TWIGS proves that even the smallest beginnings—one ride, one yard mowed, one errand run—can grow into lasting impact when fueled by empathy and persistence.

Her journey offers a roadmap for aspiring changemakers: start where you are, lean on your community, and never underestimate the power of small, consistent acts of service.

To learn more about TWIGS, visit **[www.twiginc.org](http://www.twiginc.org)**.

The Mission Control Podcast has always been a space where nonprofit leaders, executive directors, and community changemakers share their journeys. Hosted by Paul Schmidt of UnoDeuce Multimedia, each episode uncovers the stories behind organizations that keep communities strong. In one recent conversation, Casey Cooper, Assistant Director at the Tri County Office on Aging (TCOA), shed light on her path into nonprofit work, the evolution of aging services, and why community-centered leadership matters more than ever.

From Greenville Roots to Lansing Leadership

Casey’s journey began in Greenville, Michigan, a small town outside Grand Rapids. After completing her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in social work at the University of Michigan, she set out to find her place in the nonprofit world. That first role—fundraising and volunteer specialist at TCOA—turned out to be more than just a job. Eight and a half years later, she has grown into the role of assistant director, supervising staff, strengthening partnerships, and advocating for older adults.

Her longevity at TCOA speaks volumes. What started as an entry-level position became a calling. As Casey herself explained, the mission “sucked her in”—showing her how vital aging services are for individuals and communities alike.

The Mission Behind TCOA

At its heart, the Tri County Office on Aging exists to promote and preserve the independence and dignity of older adults, caregivers, and people with disabilities in Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham counties. This means helping people remain in their homes and communities for as long as possible, on their own terms.

Programs like Meals on Wheels, congregate dining, in-home support, caregiver respite, and wellness workshops anchor the agency’s services. Each is designed not only to meet physical needs, but also to reduce isolation, provide education, and foster connection.

As Casey put it, “Everything that we do at TCOA is to help older adults and caregivers and adults with disabilities get connected to programs and services that could help them age in their own homes and communities or wherever they call home in a safe way.”

Growing a Career in Nonprofits

Casey’s decision to enter the nonprofit sector wasn’t accidental. During college, she interned with an organization that supported cancer patients and discovered a love for event planning, fundraising, and direct service. That experience revealed the power of nonprofits to transform lives—and inspired her to pursue the field full-time.

Her passion was also shaped by her own childhood. Growing up in a family that benefited from social services, she experienced firsthand how access to resources creates opportunities. That memory continues to drive her: “That changed my life… and I want that for other people.”

Clearing Up Misconceptions About Aging

A big part of Casey’s work involves breaking down myths about aging. She often encounters assumptions that seniors inevitably end up in nursing homes, that aging equals isolation, or that services are only for low-income individuals. TCOA challenges those misconceptions daily by showing that most older adults can and do remain independent with the right support.

“We’re all aging,” Casey often reminds people, stressing that services are open to anyone with questions or concerns about aging. Planning ahead and connecting early can make all the difference.

Building Community Through Fundraising and Engagement

When Casey first arrived at TCOA, her role revolved around fundraising. She quickly learned that success in development isn’t just about securing dollars—it’s about building trust. Community members needed to believe in the mission, not just in her as an individual.

Over time, she discovered that fundraising could also mean rallying volunteers, cultivating champions, and building partnerships. From volunteer drivers to advisory council members to passionate donors who created lasting fundraising traditions like annual golf outings, engagement at TCOA is about relationships first.

Adapting in Times of Change

Like many nonprofits, TCOA faced extraordinary challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic. But the crisis also sparked innovation. Carryout meals were introduced to meet demand and have since become a permanent offering. Older adults began embracing technology, using Zoom, FaceTime, and texting to stay connected with loved ones and services.

Casey recalls moments when seniors proudly shared selfies they learned to take with the help of volunteer tech coaches—proof that stereotypes about seniors and technology no longer hold true.

Leadership, Advocacy, and the Road Ahead

Now serving as Assistant Director, Casey supervises a team of seven while focusing on broader community engagement. Her work includes attending health fairs, strengthening advisory councils, and representing TCOA in advocacy efforts from Lansing to Washington, D.C.

Engaging lawmakers is increasingly essential, since much of TCOA’s budget relies on public funding. Casey views this part of her role as another form of relationship-building—ensuring that policymakers understand the real needs of older adults.

Her broader vision is to shift how society views aging itself. Rather than treating it as something to fear, she wants communities to embrace aging as a natural stage of life, worthy of respect, resources, and celebration.

Life Beyond Work

Nonprofit leadership can be demanding, but Casey is intentional about finding balance. She decompresses by gardening, keeping detailed notes on her plants, and spending time outdoors. Hot baths and planning new garden projects in winter provide additional outlets for stress relief. For her, balance is both a personal and professional necessity: leaders can only serve effectively when they themselves are restored.

Final Thoughts

Casey Cooper’s story reflects the very best of nonprofit leadership—rooted in service, sustained by relationships, and driven by a clear sense of mission. Her nearly decade-long journey with the Tri County Office on Aging illustrates how commitment, creativity, and compassion can shape stronger communities.

For anyone inspired to connect, TCOA remains a vital resource for older adults, caregivers, and families across mid-Michigan. Their website, tcoa.org, offers ways to volunteer, donate, or simply learn more.

The Mission Control Podcast conversation with Casey is a reminder that aging is universal, and that supporting seniors is, ultimately, supporting ourselves. As Casey wisely put it: “We’re all aging, right? We all hope to be an older adult.”

-Discover how Kwaku Osei, Executive Director of The Love Building in Detroit, is reshaping what community can look like. In this episode of the Mission Control Podcast, host Paul Schmidt and Kwaku dive into the building’s mission: creating a hub for social justice, creativity, and belonging. From experimenting with shared resources to hosting vibrant gatherings like Love at Night, The Love Building proves that love and accountability can drive real civic change. ✨ Highlights in this episode: The origin and purpose of The Love Building Kwaku Osei’s journey into leadership How nonprofits share talent and resources The Love List: connecting communities across Detroit Why leading with love is a radical, practical strategy 📍 Learn more about The Love Building: https://thelovebuilding.org 🎙️ Subscribe to the Mission Control Podcast for more conversations on leadership, impact, and community-building.

The Mission Control Podcast is a space where nonprofit leaders and executive directors share the ways they are shaping their communities for the better. In a recent episode, host Paul Schmidt sat down with Julie Pingston, President and CEO of **Choose Lansing**, to discuss her career, her deep commitment to the region, and how tourism continues to play a transformative role in mid-Michigan’s growth.

Julie’s journey is filled with serendipity, resilience, and a genuine passion for Lansing. From her early dreams of international diplomacy to leading one of Michigan’s most influential tourism organizations, her story offers insight into what it takes to nurture a community and keep its heartbeat strong.

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From Diplomatic Dreams to Lansing Devotion

Julie Pingston didn’t begin her career with Lansing in mind. A political science and Spanish major, she envisioned working with the U.S. State Department. Her early experiences led her to Washington D.C., where she worked in travel and tourism within the George H. W. Bush administration, promoting the United States as a global travel destination.

After several years in the capital, however, Julie decided to return to Michigan. She reunited with a former boyfriend—now her husband—and faced a turning point: continue in politics and government, or shift toward hospitality and tourism. Choosing the latter, she joined what was then the Greater Lansing Convention and Visitors Bureau. More than three decades later, she remains at the helm, guiding its evolution into the newly rebranded **Choose Lansing**.

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Building a Tourism Powerhouse

When Julie started, the bureau had only nine employees. Today, under her leadership, the organization has grown to 27 staff members and expanded its reach across the Lansing region. She credits Michigan State University, the steady growth of the city, and the “snowball effect” of tourism for fueling this expansion.

More students meant more events, more visitors, and ultimately, more opportunities for the region. Julie found her calling not just in marketing attractions but in becoming a genuine advocate for Lansing and the people who live there.

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What Makes Lansing Special

Asked what draws people to Lansing, Julie’s enthusiasm is immediate. Lansing may not have a single marquee attraction, but it offers an impressive variety:

* **Michigan State University**, with its Big Ten energy, cultural events, and world-class performances.
* **Arts and culture**, from symphonies and galleries to a thriving performing arts scene.
* **Two capitals**—Lansing as both the political heart of Michigan and a hub of student-driven vitality.
* **The river trail system**, connecting neighborhoods and attractions along the waterfront.
* **A mix of everything**: a zoo, science center, history, shopping, and dining.

As Julie puts it, “We may not have the biggest of everything, but we have a lot of all the things.”

—

Challenges and Transformation

Julie’s career hasn’t been without challenges. Her first official day as President and CEO was March 11, 2020—just before the COVID-19 pandemic shut down travel and tourism. With hotel stays and event bookings evaporating, she furloughed all but five staff members. Those who remained pivoted quickly, supporting restaurants with curbside pickup lists, coordinating hotel stays for frontline workers, and serving as the voice for Lansing’s hospitality industry during a time of crisis.

It was, as Julie describes, “a whirlwind of five years in one.” But through community kindness, resilience, and her belief that she was “the right person at the right time,” Julie guided Choose Lansing through the pandemic’s darkest days.

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Rebranding as “Choose Lansing”

As the community recovered, Julie saw an opportunity to refresh the organization’s identity. The former **Greater Lansing Convention and Visitors Bureau** was renamed **Choose Lansing**, a clear, vibrant brand that invites people to actively select the region for conventions, events, and travel.

The rebrand debuted on the giant message boards at Spartan Stadium before 72,000 fans, receiving instant positive feedback. For Julie, the new name encapsulates not just tourism, but community pride:

“When we’re out selling nationally, we are all Lansing. We have apple orchards, trails, rivers, a capital, and a Big Ten university. But it’s all Lansing when we’re telling our story.”

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A Personal Side

Outside the office, Julie maintains balance through family and personal interests. Her children live in Chicago and Charlotte, giving her the chance to travel often. She enjoys reading, participating in a golf league, and embracing her love of Disney—finding inspiration in its philosophy and sprinkling a little “pixie dust” into her own leadership approach.

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Looking Ahead

Julie Pingston’s story is more than a professional journey; it is a reflection of how one leader’s dedication can shape an entire community. From revitalizing downtown to championing local businesses through a pandemic, her impact on Lansing is undeniable.

With Choose Lansing, she continues to position the region as a welcoming destination where arts, culture, government, and university life converge. As she reminds listeners, “We want everybody to come here, and we do. That’s really, really key.”

For those planning events, family trips, or simply curious about Michigan’s capital region, Lansing offers something for everyone—and thanks to leaders like Julie Pingston, the welcome mat is always out.

—

**Learn more:**

* Website: [lansing.org](https://www.lansing.org)
* Email: [jpingston@lansing.org](mailto:jpingston@lansing.org)
* Mission Control Podcast: Subscribe on YouTube or Apple Podcasts

On a recent episode of the *Mission Control* podcast, host Paul Schmidt sat down with Gabe Biber, Executive Director of Fenner Nature Conservancy in Lansing, Michigan. What unfolded was more than a conversation about trails and trees—it was an in-depth journey through nonprofit leadership, food justice, urban farming, and the personal and professional creativity that drives Gabe’s work.

Gabe’s path to Fenner wasn’t a straight line. From working in kitchens and community gardens to leading stream monitoring programs and coordinating food security projects, each step added to a broader understanding of how place, people, and sustainability intersect. His early work at the Greater Lansing Food Bank helped him connect with local communities, including refugee growers bringing rich agricultural traditions to Lansing’s urban soil. Gabe embraced the role of facilitator—someone who makes connections, listens, and helps people share knowledge and resources across cultures.

This work laid the foundation for his leadership philosophy. Later, at Haven House, a local shelter, Gabe assumed new responsibilities, transitioning from volunteer coordination to executive leadership. The transition taught him that nonprofit success isn’t just about operations—it’s about vision, relationship-building, and a commitment to systemic change.

Now at Fenner, Gabe leads a team focused on connecting people with nature right in the heart of Lansing. While many know Fenner for its trails and programs, Gabe is especially excited about its expansion into early childhood education. The Conservancy’s nature-based preschool is thriving, offering immersive outdoor learning experiences that spark curiosity and environmental stewardship in kids. For Gabe, this is about more than education—it’s planting seeds for future community leaders.

Throughout the conversation, one theme kept surfacing: creativity. Whether navigating the tensions of nonprofit collaboration, stepping into new leadership roles, or playing improv jazz after hours, Gabe sees creativity as a core tool. It helps him stay flexible, curious, and resilient in a field that rarely offers easy answers.

His advice for new community gardeners? “There’s no wrong way to do it.” The same could apply to nonprofit work—there’s no one-size-fits-all solution, but there is value in showing up, listening, and growing together.

From systems change to stream stewardship, Gabe Biber’s story is a powerful example of nonprofit leadership grounded in humility, collaboration, and imagination. And as Paul reminded listeners at the close of the episode, it’s everyday changemakers like Gabe who help communities thrive.

You can connect with Gabe or learn more about Fenner at [mynaturecenter.org](https://www.mynaturecenter.org). To hear the whole conversation, check out the *Mission Control* podcast on YouTube or your favorite app.

**Stay curious. Stay grounded. And as always—keep reaching for Mission Control.**

Joseph Yang’s path to becoming President and CEO of the Boys & Girls Club of Lansing reads like a modern success story—one that weaves together technology, law, and an unwavering commitment to community service. His journey demonstrates how diverse experiences can converge to create decisive leadership in the nonprofit sector.

Yang’s story begins in an unlikely place for a future nonprofit leader: hunched over a computer in the early days of DOS commands and dial-up modems. Growing up in a computer lab, he developed a deep appreciation for technology that would later influence his approach to youth programming. After earning a degree in telecommunications from Michigan State University in 2003, Yang worked in tech support, troubleshooting everything from networking issues to the frustrating dial-up connections that defined the early internet era.

But Yang’s interests extended far beyond circuit boards and code. Inspired by mentors who made a difference in Lansing, he took an unconventional detour into law school, attending Western Michigan University Cooley Law School’s nights-and-weekends program while working full-time. Graduating in 2013, he focused on criminal law, particularly representing indigent clients who couldn’t afford legal representation—a calling that reflected his deep commitment to serving underserved communities.

What makes Yang’s story particularly compelling is his full-circle return to the Boys & Girls Club. He grew up across the street from the organization in a public housing complex called Lareroo, participating in programs as a child before eventually joining the staff as Education Director. This personal connection runs deep—his current office overlooks the very basketball courts where he learned to play as a kid.

“I love the community. I literally come home every day when I go to work,” Yang reflects on his unique perspective as both former member and current leader.

As Director of Operations, Yang wore virtually every hat imaginable—managing finance and HR, driving the van for field trips, organizing sports camps, and ensuring every donated dollar was spent efficiently. His approach was always mission-first, working behind the scenes to help others shine while keeping the organization running smoothly.

When longtime President Carmen announced her retirement, Yang insisted on an open, nationwide search process, prioritizing what was best for the Club over personal ambition. After a thorough evaluation, he emerged as the top candidate—a testament to his dedication and the trust placed in him by the board and community.

Now as President and CEO, Yang is modernizing the Club while honoring its traditions. Understanding that today’s kids are different from those of 20 years ago, he has introduced innovative programs, such as an esports corner with high-spec computers, bridging traditional recreation with digital interests. His tech background proves invaluable as he meets kids where they are, rather than expecting them to adapt to outdated programming models.

The Boys & Girls Club of Lansing serves youth ages 7-17 with after-school programming that includes homework help, arts and crafts, STEM activities, and physical fitness—all for just $10 per year, a membership fee that has remained unchanged for over two decades.

Yang’s leadership philosophy centers on empowering his team and expanding the Club’s reach throughout Lansing, taking services directly to schools and housing complexes. His vision extends beyond the facility’s walls, aiming to serve 185 kids daily while building new partnerships across the community.

Through his unique blend of technical expertise, legal knowledge, and genuine passion for youth development, Yang exemplifies how diverse professional experiences can create exceptional nonprofit leadership.