What is your day job?
I work as an outreach worker in youth and young adult homeless response. My role involves supporting clients experiencing homelessness and guiding them step-by-step to secure stable, safe housing.
Additionally, I founded and run a nonprofit called Evergreen Community Group, which hosts free social events to help adults make and sustain friendships in the area. Though our team is completely volunteer-based, being the president of this busy organization feels like a second job! Both positions recharge my spirit and bring me joy as I serve my community.
How long have you lived in the Grand Traverse area?
My whole life! I absolutely love Traverse City. I now enjoy living right in downtown Traverse City, where I can walk to the beach, shops, my favorite bars and restaurants, and all the fantastic community events we have—like the Cherry Festival.
What is your favorite thing about living/working in the Traverse City area?
I love the balance between the vibrant city life—filled with stores, services, and amazing food—and the breathtaking natural surroundings. Within 30 minutes, you can go from shopping at Oryana and grabbing an Olipop to climbing a sand dune. It’s the best of both worlds!
What do you do for fun?
Volunteering is a major hobby of mine—I enjoy supporting community events and seeing them come together to create something amazing. Outside of volunteering, I’m into resale shopping, hiking, biking, skiing, and attending events around town with friends.
I’m also an avid baker and like to think of myself as a creative type. I love trying something new, especially if it’s meaningful to someone else—it’s always an exciting adventure!
How do you get involved in the community?
Primarily through volunteering! I’ve also completed programs like Leadership Grand Traverse and the City of Traverse City’s City Academy, both of which I highly recommend for young professionals who want to connect with local leaders and everyday heroes.
Through Evergreen Community Group, I’ve had incredible opportunities to collaborate with local businesses, nonprofit partners, and community members. Whether it’s hosting events, lending a hand to other organizations, or just helping someone feel connected, it’s been a privilege.
Sometimes, getting involved is as simple as saying hello to someone in line or on the street—you never know where that small connection might lead!
What is your favorite local business (restaurant, shop, service, etc.), and why?
It’s impossible to pick just one! I love supporting my friends’ businesses and cheering them on. For example:
• My friend Kevin owns KJones Productions, and I’m always inspired by his amazing video work. He’s done such wonderful videos for me.
• I enjoy spending time at Halsteadt Homestead Cherries—their spring orchard and classes are delightful.
• My all-time favorite restaurant is Poppycocks, but you’ll also find me at Pearl’s in Elk Rapids after making art at Art & Connection.
• Downtown, you’ll often see me with shopping bags in hand and a coffee from Good Harbor or WaterBear Coffee!
What’s the weirdest job you’ve ever had?
Starting Evergreen is definitely my weirdest but most rewarding job! One moment, I’m writing copy for our newsletter and website, and the next, I’m fixing a broken wheel on a fold-out wagon or brewing tea for a group after a hike.
It’s been a crash course in trying new things, learning new skills, and making mistakes—and I wouldn’t trade it for anything.
Tell us something that might surprise us about you.
I’m neurodivergent and have synesthesia, which changes how I experience and interact with the world. This unique perspective has been a gift, helping me approach challenges creatively and solve problems in innovative ways.
What is something you learned in the last week?
Did you know that humans greeted each other by waving and laughed before language even existed? It’s such a beautiful reminder of the human spirit!
How can other TCYP members support you (personally or professionally)?
I’d love to connect with other young changemakers! If you’re passionate about a cause, find out who’s working on it and get involved. Many community groups need fresh ideas and young perspectives—you might discover something new while making an impact.
If my vision of ensuring everyone in Northern Michigan feels like they belong resonates with you, let’s grab coffee! I’d love to chat about Evergreen Community Group and how your talents can help spread joy, kindness, and connection. Whether you’re interested in fundraising, creative content creation, or social media management, we’d love to have you on our team!
Feel free to reach out to me at JackL@evergreen-mi.org.
