[DONATE] This episode of The Collective US, produced by the Northwest Michigan Community Action Agency (NMCAA), centers around the theme of advocacy and its critical role in community action. Hosts Erica Austin and Ryan Buck speak with board members Peachy Rentenbach and Sam Getsinger, who share personal stories and insights into how they became involved with NMCAA and why advocacy matters.

Peachy, a former restaurant owner, joined the NMCAA board to support food programs like Meals on Wheels, leveraging her background in human ecology and teaching. Sam, whose early life was marked by instability and poverty, credits public education and community support programs for shaping her success. She speaks passionately about economic justice, early childhood education, and the moral imperative to advocate for those in need.

The discussion emphasizes:

• The importance of personal stories in effective advocacy.

• The need to humanize and demystify advocacy, especially in small communities.

• Actionable steps for community involvement, from attending public meetings to calling elected officials.

• The threats posed by federal budget cuts to essential programs like Head Start, LIHEAP, and food assistance.

• A deep commitment to equity, empathy, and connection, framing community as both local and global.

The episode also highlights NMCAA’s large impact in the region, employing over 350 people, many in Head Start. The guests underscore that advocacy is rooted in heart, and that maintaining optimism, persistence, and community spirit can drive meaningful change. The show ends with reflections on legacy, community impact, and a call to action for listeners to get involved and support NMCAA’s mission.