[DONATE] Hosts Erica Austin and Ryan Buck introduce the episode, produced by the Northwest Michigan Community Action Agency (NMCAA), highlighting the impact of their programs in 2024 and their vision moving into 2025. They welcome Executive Director Kerry Baughman, who reflects on NMCAA’s 50th anniversary celebrations and the positive energy moving forward.
Key Highlights from NMCAA’s 2024 Annual Report:
Top Workplace Recognition
- NMCAA was named a Detroit Free Press Top Workplace and recognized as a women-led Top Workplace.
- 60 employees have served 10-20 years, 33 employees 20-30 years, and 11 employees 30-40 years.
- 69.2% of employees participated in an engagement survey, guiding strategic planning and workplace improvements.
Child & Family Development Programs
- Served 1,218 families through programs like Head Start, Great Start Readiness (GSRP), and School Success.
- 9,000 home visits were conducted to support family engagement.
- New infant/toddler Early Head Start program launched at Traverse City High School in partnership with Generations Ahead.
Housing & Homelessness Support
- NMCAA helped 3,253 individuals obtain and maintain housing.
- Weatherization and Home Repair:
- NMCAA assisted 27 households with emergency home repairs.
Financial Empowerment & Economic Stability
- Completed 3,674 tax returns, returning over $6 million to community members.
- 100 households attended homebuyer education.
- 175 households received budget coaching.
Food Security & Meals on Wheels
- NMCAA launched a new food pantry in Cadillac, serving 500 clients in 6 months.
- 3,500+ clients/month benefited from NMCAA’s food distribution programs.
- Meals on Wheels: Delivered 179,949 meals to 1,147 homebound seniors.
- Congregate meal sites served 16,705 meals to 728 active seniors.
Community Engagement & Future Vision
- NMCAA emphasizes partnerships, community involvement, and volunteerism.
- Call to Action: Encourages the community to engage, donate, volunteer, and support initiatives.
- NMCAA is committed to expanding outreach, increasing housing stability, and strengthening community programs in 2025.
The episode closes with contact details for homelessness support, early education enrollment, financial assistance, and volunteer opportunities.
