[DONATE TO NMCAA] HR at NMCAA is in a celebratory transition. Long-time Human Resources Director Betsy Reese (20 years with the agency; 18 in HR) joins the show to reflect on a career of building people-first systems—from launching a year-long Leadership Class (2016 & 2019) to a major pay scale revamp (2015) and clear explanations of COLA, market adjustments, and new 401(k) contributions. Stepping into the role, Abria Morrow shares her relationship-centered approach: listening, being available across 10 counties, “office hours,” and practical wellness habits that balance the weight of that infamous “admin tab.”

Together they connect employee wellbeing to client impact, highlight NMCAA’s Cornerstones of Culture (Respect, Accountability, Acceptance, Compassion, Cooperation), and offer burnout buffers: PTO planning by quarter, EAP, walking groups, team-building, and timely recognition (anniversaries, Kudos Corner). We also celebrate remarkable staff longevity—evidence that culture and care keep people here.

Tune in for real tactics any nonprofit can use to support teams—plus a few fun HR “first-aid kit” surprises—and a simple message to every employee: you are worth it, and you deserve the time to recharge.

[DONATE TO NMCAA] This “behind-the-scenes” back-to-school episode of The Collective US features hosts Ryan Buck and Erica Austin with lead teachers Judy Abernathy (34 years with Head Start) and Jessica Youhouse, who share how they came to early childhood education—Judy from classroom volunteer to college-educated lead teacher, Jessica from ECE studies through varied roles back to the joy of the classroom—and why preschool matters: firsts, silliness, big hugs, safety, and friendships that last. They trade summer snapshots (softball scouting; lake life with hand-fed bass), then unpack the real prep: rooms reset after carpet cleaning, audit-driven paperwork, labeling everything, allergy/meal plans, attendance and parent communication via Learning Genie, with 1:1 orientations and open houses to build trust. Classroom culture includes Judy’s “Love Notes” family photo pockets, feelings wheels on every chair, first-day photos, portfolios, and a “waving window” goodbye ritual. The first two weeks emphasize routines, independence, and social skills; challenges are met with patience, humor, and teamwork (last year they potty-trained 7 of 8 students). Advice to new teachers: communicate, delegate, breathe, be flexible—“nobody’s on fire.” The show spotlights staff milestones and kudos, answers a few fun questions (adult recess = swings; emergency kit = snacks—Goldfish!), and closes with reminders about home-based Head Start options, weatherization help, and how to donate to NMCAA.

[DONATE] This episode of The Collective US podcast by Northwest Michigan Community Action Agency focuses on the importance of wills, trusts, and estate planning for individuals at any stage of life, regardless of income. Hosts Erica Austin and Ryan Buck speak with Melissa Thompson, NMCAA’s engagement manager, and attorney Mary Ann Wehr, founder of Great Lakes Center for Estate Planning.

The discussion covers the basics of wills—as “maps” through probate—and trusts, which can help avoid probate and keep matters private. Mary Ann Wehr emphasizes simplicity, communicating wishes clearly, and the role of wills in naming guardians for children, which can prevent them from entering foster care if parents die unexpectedly. For older adults, planning can address long-term care costs, Medicaid eligibility, and asset protection. The conversation also explores common reasons people delay estate planning, such as procrastination and the belief they’re too young, and stresses updating documents after life changes.

Guests highlight that legacy giving, such as leaving a percentage of an estate to nonprofits like NMCAA, can significantly support community programs like Meals on Wheels, particularly during the ongoing “great wealth transfer” from the baby boomer generation. They share stories of impactful bequests, creative non-cash gifts, and the benefits of unrestricted donations.

Mary Ann Wehr shares a deeply personal story about losing her son, a firefighter, during the COVID-19 pandemic and how that inspired her to focus on estate planning to help families avoid unnecessary hardship. The episode closes with resources, advice to “just do it” when it comes to planning, and reminders that it’s about creating a roadmap for loved ones, not just preparing for death, but also leaving a meaningful legacy.