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Featured Story: TRUE Community Credit Union & The Garrett Family

Written by Amanda Loveland on . Posted in Featured Stories, Uncategorized.

Building Hope: Help Turn a Tragedy to Triumph

For the Garrett family, “home” has become a daily battleground. Home is a space full of love, but filled with barriers that make everyday life nearly impossible for their daughter, Kimmie.

The Garrett family — John, SharRonnie and their children Jayla, Jo’Elle, Karson, and Kimberly (Kimmie) — has faced challenges no family should ever have to endure. In early 2024, 10-year-old Kimmie Garrett contracted influenza A. What began as a routine illness quickly spiraled into a life-threatening crisis. After repeated hospital visits and delays in care, Kimmie suffered a heart attack, two strokes and ultimately underwent multiple surgeries that resulted in the amputation of her hands and legs. Her survival is nothing short of a miracle.

Today, Kimmie is learning to adapt to her new reality. She scoots on the floor to get around. Her wheelchair can’t fit through the doorways of the family’s 100-year-old home, and the only bathroom is located upstairs. What once was simply “home” has become an obstacle course.

But out of tragedy, hope is being built, hand in hand, brick by brick.

Led by Salena Taylor, founder of Partial to Girls, in partnership with Yvette Wilkie, RJ’s Burgers & Ice Cream Co., and TRUE Community Credit Union, a grassroots movement to build the Garrett’s a fully accessible home has taken root. Together with Greater Jackson Habitat for Humanity, they launched the “Build Hope in Jackson” campaign, a fundraising effort that is quickly evolving into one of Jackson’s most powerful demonstrations of community solidarity in recent memory.

“I want people to see the miracle we’ve been left with,” Salena said. “What the Garrett family represents is beyond hope. They represent survival after unthinkable trauma. Getting them a home is the next miracle.”

This home won’t just be a place to raise a family: it will be a lifeline that allows the Garrett’s to adequately care for Kimmie. Habitat for Humanity is working directly with the Garrett Family to customize every detail. From the width of the doorways to the height of light switches, every choice is being made to give Kimmie the freedom to move, grow, and thrive.

“This is a legacy-defining moment,” said Chrissy Siders, President/CEO, TRUE Community Credit Union. “It’s more than just housing. It’s about lifting a burden and restoring a sense of normalcy. This is what Jackson does best. We show up for one another when it matters most.”

And Jackson has. Local residents, businesses and organizations have already begun contributing financially, sharing the story and rallying volunteers. But the journey is just beginning.

SharRonnie and John Garrett say their greatest hope is to give Kimmie a space where she can simply be a kid again, where she can scoot freely, sleep soundly, brush her teeth at the sink like her siblings, and help cook in the kitchen she loves.

“We’re not asking for luxury,” John said. “We’re just asking for access so our daughter can live with dignity.”

Building a fully accessible home is costly, and every dollar counts. “Whether it’s $1 or $100, it matters,” said Sheila Everts, Executive Director of Greater Jackson Habitat for Humanity. “Even if you can’t give financially, sharing this story might reach someone who can.”

To donate or get involved, visit buildhopeinjackson.com or send a check to Greater Jackson Habitat for Humanity at 251 W. Prospect St., Jackson, MI 49203, with “Garrett Family” in the memo line.

Let’s show the world what community is made of. Let’s build hope together.

You can help the Garrett family at buildhopeinjackson.com.

Growing Hope, Filling Gaps: The Welcome Home Organization’s Vision for Jackson

Written by Noah Hansen on . Posted in Featured Stories.

On the east side of the City of Jackson, seeds of sustainability are growing – and it’s more than just fruits and vegetables. It’s opportunity. It’s stability. It’s community. And it’s all rooted in the mission of The Welcome Home Organization (WHO), a nonprofit working to close the gaps too many families fall through.

Founded in 2012 and revitalized in 2019 by a team of passionate changemakers, the Welcome Home Organization is guided by three pillars: youth mentorship through sports, veteran family outreach, and urban agriculture. Since relocating to Jackson, the organization has supported more than 4,000 families, launched multiple community programs, and cultivated meaningful partnerships to address generational challenges with fresh solutions.

A Multi-Promise Mission
The Welcome Home Organization’s impact stretches far and wide. The WHO’s efforts reflect a deep commitment to addressing both short-term needs and long-term change, from free stores in Jackson and Albion to youth golf and bowling mentorship programs, academic tutoring, and veteran outreach. At the core of its philosophy: meet people where they are, and plant seeds that will grow for years to come.

One of those seeds is the Urban Roots initiative, which reintroduces agriculture into urbanized communities in Jackson. With a farmer ID and a new grant-funded market opening in the Flatiron District, Welcome Home is addressing Jackson’s food insecurity while also creating economic opportunity. “We’re not just growing food, we’re growing futures,” says Vittoria.

Through its child care center, Gems of Jackson, the organization delivers 24-hour STEM and STEAM-based learning, ensuring working families have access to flexible, enriching education options. Its on-site greenhouse, Grandma T’s Learning Garden, is named after Vittoria’s grandmother and allows children to grow, harvest and eat their own produce. Over the last two summers alone, the program has distributed more than 1,000 pounds of fresh produce to the community at no cost.

Community at the Core
The Welcome Home Organization isn’t working alone. Through collaborations with Jackson Interfaith Shelter, Altering Outcomes and MyPlace, it was awarded a $2 million grant to create a wraparound service model. This joint effort will provide early childhood education, transportation, transitional housing and job opportunities, embracing a holistic approach to healing and uplifting Jackson families.

And it doesn’t stop there. In 2025, the team was selected by the City of Jackson to construct two transitional homes: one for a veteran family and one for youth in transition. With a growing property portfolio and an energized board, the organization is building not just programs but the physical foundation for sustainable impact.

Filling the Gaps, One Step at a Time
From helping single-parent households whose loved ones are incarcerated to opening doors for youth through access to sports like golf and bowling, where scholarships and future careers are possible and in-reach, Welcome Home’s mission is both personal and far-reaching.

“We want to create opportunities in Jackson that weren’t there before,” said Vittoria. “A kid can get a two-year turf degree from MSU or Penn State and make an incredible wage. We want them to know that.”

Through relentless commitment and divine inspiration, The Welcome Home Organization continues to ask: Where are the gaps? Then, it does the work to fill them.

Because when you believe in a better future and build it with your own hands, Welcome Home isn’t just a name. It’s a promise.

Learn more about The Welcome Home Organization at www.whovision.org

Drive Jackson: A Vision Rooted in Real Voices

Written by Noah Hansen on . Posted in Featured Stories.

Meet the Drive Jackson Co-Chairs

Carolyn Bloodworth spent more than 40 years building relationships and leading philanthropy at Consumers Energy. Christopher Simpson served Jackson as a soldier, a police officer and now as Chief of Police at Jackson City Police Department. They’ve both seen Jackson’s struggles. More importantly, they see its potential.

That’s why they’re helping lead as co-chairs of Drive Jackson: a 20-Year Vision Plan for the future of Jackson County.

“If not me, then who?” Simpson said.“I’ve taken that attitude toward most of the things I’ve gone after, things that are worthy of seeking.”

“I want to give back to the community that has given so much to me and my family,” Bloodworth said. “I really want to make a difference, particularly for those people in the next generations to come.”

What Is Drive Jackson?
Drive Jackson is the most ambitious effort launched by the Jackson County Chamber of Commerce since the Anchor Initiative. Backed by partners like Accelerate Jackson County, Experience Jackson and the Jackson Community Foundation, the plan is being facilitated by planning NEXT, a firm known for community-first strategic planning.

Like other successful and vibrant communities, Drive Jackson aims to unify Jackson’s goals into a cohesive 20-Year Vision Plan. It is a living vision, shaped by the people who live and work here. The only way to build a future worth investing in is by including the voices who are already invested.

“Nobody should be left behind,” Simpson said. “And that does not discriminate against any color, any age, any place or profession. It should include everybody who is devoted to this community.”

A Diverse Committee
Out of nearly 100 applicants, 24 individuals were selected for the Drive Jackson Key Leadership Committee. These are not figureheads. They are educators, entrepreneurs, city officials and everyday citizens who care deeply about the county’s future.

They are the ones asking tough questions, listening to their neighbors and helping define what a thriving Jackson looks like.

“The voices that need to be heard are from every point of the community,” Simpson emphasized. “Because they live in the community, and they should have a voice in what the community should look like in the future.”

What Does a Thriving Jackson Look Like?
Drive Jackson is built on possibilities. From both Carolyn and Chris, you hear a vision grounded in reality but motivated by hope:

“I see a Jackson where people across the county are able to walk around and feel comfortable in the places they live and frequent.”

“I see an economic atmosphere that produces recreation, that produces education, that produces a safe environment.”

“A thriving Jackson includes a strong education system, pre-K through college. We need to make our students successful so they can be great citizens.”

Carolyn put it like this: “I hope people look back and say, ‘Wow, those folks in 2025 did the right thing by creating a plan, by creating a vision for this community.’”

That future Jackson is one where businesses thrive, young families stay, nonprofit organizations are empowered and collaboration becomes second nature. The first step toward this reality is to work together through cohesive goals that are unified through a strategic plan.

Why Now?
There is a shift happening in Jackson County. People in their 20s, 30s and 40s are deciding where to live, where to work, and where to raise their kids.

Carolyn and Chris both agree: These voices matter most right now, and these voices are already here in Jackson.

“They’re making decisions for their family; where they want to live, where they want to send their kids to school,” Bloodworth said. “Those decisions are vital. And we need to be able to hear from them so that community decisions can help respond to their needs.”

How to Get Involved

Drive Jackson is an invitation to think differently. To act collectively. And to believe that Jackson is worth fighting for.

 Drive Jackson is just getting started. By completing this short survey, you can help Drive Jackson forward and share what your ideal Jackson looks like.

Complete the Survey (open through July 31, 2025) by clicking the link below:

https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=Czlism8GGE6oxEA5AXq-4HG9dXvgi6lArhK031kjHHlUOFhMN1dJOUU5MkxFOUhMQ1JHV1VOUVhaMy4u&route=shorturl

Learn more about Drive Jackson at www.drivejacksoncounty.com

Drive Jackson

WellWise Services: An Area Agency on Aging Supporting Independence, Health, and Happiness

Written by Noah Hansen on . Posted in Featured Stories.

For more than 50 years, WellWise Services Area Agency on Aging has quietly shaped the lives of thousands across Jackson, Lenawee and Hillsdale counties. What began as Region 2 Area Agency on Aging has grown into a community cornerstone and a lifeline for older adults, adults with disabilities and their caregivers.

At the heart of WellWise is a simple but powerful mission: to help people live independently, safely and with dignity. 

“Our staff and volunteers are deeply rooted in the communities we serve,” said CEO Kara Lorenz-Goings. “We don’t just respond to needs, we anticipate them.”

With more than 80 employees and over 80 community partners and contracted providers, WellWise’s impact is expansive. Last year alone, the agency received more than 20,000 calls from individuals seeking support, guidance and hope.

WellWise Services Building in Brooklyn, Michigan

Meeting Needs Before Crisis Hits

“People often wait until they’re in crisis to call us,” said Deanne Matthews, access supervisor. “But there’s so much we can do before it gets to that point. We help with Medicare, Medicaid, exercise programs, tech help, social connection and we walk alongside people through every step.”

From walk-in support to in-home care assessments, the agency’s services are accessible, personal and warm. Whether someone needs help with energy bills, navigating insurance or simply a connection to a friendly voice, WellWise is there.

The My Choice Waiver: A Gateway to Aging in Place

One of their flagship programs, the My Choice Waiver, enables eligible participants to receive long-term care support in their homes instead of a nursing facility. “We support more than 700 people through this program alone, most of them right here in Jackson,” said Angie Shepherd, clinical supervisor. “We help them remain in their homes with services like caregivers, meals or even emergency buttons. It’s about dignity and independence.”

A Safety Net for Those Who Need It

The stories that pour out of WellWise are not just statistics. They are about saved homes, restored relationships and renewed hope. One woman, caring for a husband with severe dementia, came to the agency at her breaking point. “She thought her only option was to leave him,” recalls Shepherd. “But we helped her enroll in the My Choice program. That support allowed them to stay together safely in their home.”

Another example came through the agency’s elder abuse prevention initiative, Safe Haven. “A client had been financially exploited and was facing eviction,” Shepherd recalls. “We were able to connect him with legal help and use Safe Haven funds to cover his rent. We kept him safe and off the streets.”

Built by the Community, for the Community

WellWise’s new headquarters in Brooklyn, made possible by a local property donation from Dr. Cole, reflects both growth and commitment. Rebranded in 2023, the agency now operates from a beautiful, modernized facility: another symbol of their forward-thinking evolution.

But even with a new name and building, their core remains the same. “We’re here because our community needs us and they always will,” said Lorenz-Goings. “Our advisory council, our board, our volunteers, they all come from the counties we serve. This is their mission too.”

WellWise Staff

Ways to Get Involved

WellWise welcomes community involvement in many forms, from volunteering and donations to simply reaching out to someone in need. 

“You might be the person who notices a neighbor is struggling,” said Matthews. “Sometimes a phone call or a warm meal is all it takes to keep someone safe and connected.”

Volunteers assist with everything from friendly reassurance calls to Medicare counseling and Connection Café lunches. Donations help fund under-resourced programs like the Unmet Needs Fund or Safe Haven, directly supporting vulnerable residents.

A Call to Action

“The aging population is growing rapidly,” said Lorenz-Goings. “Advocating for them isn’t just compassionate, it’s smart. Aging in place reduces health care costs and improves quality of life. But we need voices, volunteers and support to keep making that possible.”

“Don’t wait for a crisis,” Lorenz-Goings urges. “Call us now. Let’s walk this journey together.”

To learn more, get help or join their mission, visit wellwiseservices.org or call 517-592-1974.

From a Jail Visit to a Movement: How SOAR Café & Farms Is Restoring Lives in Jackson

Written by Noah Hansen on . Posted in Featured Stories.

A Faith-Based Nonprofit that Feeds the Soul

Seven years ago, Michelle Cochran had no idea she would one day be leading one of Jackson’s most impactful reentry and restoration programs. In fact, SOAR Café & Farms wasn’t something she planned: it was something she answered.

“I really didn’t have the idea,” Michelle says. “It was a God thing. It just showed up.”

Michelle had spent years coaching and mentoring through personal leadership development and church ministry. Life was good. She had just finished writing a book and was content with where she was. But everything changed when her son began dating a young woman named Danielle. When Michelle later discovered Danielle had been arrested and was facing prison time, her focus shifted, not toward judgment, but compassion.

“I had no idea what this was going to look like,” Michelle remembers. “But I told her, if you’ll have me, I just want to walk with you through this.”

Jail Visits and Bible Study

So she did. Michelle began visiting Danielle every week, supporting her through court dates and, eventually, a three-and-a-half-year prison sentence. Along the way, a simple Bible study offer turned into something much bigger. After a flurry of coincidences, Facebook reminders, serendipitous song lyrics and spiritual nudges, Michelle felt called to start something more.

Inspired by a nonprofit in Nashville that helps women survivors of trafficking, addiction and prostitution, Michelle heard God whisper a name: “You’ll call it SOAR, because it will give them wings.”

And it has.

SOAR Café & Farms now operates as a community-rooted nonprofit with a two-part mission: restoration and reintegration. It began with a residential home, a safe space for women to heal after incarceration or trauma. That was just the beginning. Michelle knew that healing needed to be followed by purpose, empowerment and employment.

That’s where SOAR Café came in.

Feeding the Community: SOAR Café

When longtime local eatery Anna’s Coffee Shop went up for sale, Michelle and her board saw an opportunity. With support from community partners, SOAR secured the building. This was all the more confirmation for Michelle that this was the mission she was meant to fulfill. Standing in the doorway of the newly secured building, she recalls hearing a voice:

“Done and done.”

SOAR Café officially opened as a vibrant, welcoming space for community to come and enjoy true purpose. The café employs women in transition, offering them a supportive, mentoring environment to rebuild their lives with dignity, structure and community. Each sandwich served and latte poured is another step forward for someone on the path to independence.

But SOAR is more than just a café. It’s a movement.

Empowering, Encouraging, and Employing

“We go into the county jail every Wednesday,” Michelle says. “We mentor at the women’s correctional facility. We host community support groups every Monday night. We meet women at their lowest and walk with them toward something higher.”

It’s working. One woman met SOAR mentors during a jail session. She later joined the community group, gave birth to a child with nowhere to go and was taken in by another mentor. Today, she works at the café.

“It started with one woman,” Michelle reflects. “And because of that, her children’s lives are different. Her family is different. You heal one woman, and you start healing generations.”

What makes SOAR unique is not just the model — it’s the heart behind it. There’s no cookie-cutter plan or corporate blueprint. The “business plan,” Michelle says, is faith. Faith in transformation. Faith in second chances. Faith in community.

And Jackson has shown up.

Soaring with Jackson County

“Our community is incredible,” she says. “Churches, businesses, individuals — they’ve come around us in so many ways. They eat here, pray for us, support us, encourage us. That’s what makes this work possible.”

Michelle sees SOAR as part of a bigger vision for the city she loves.

“Jackson is a shining city on a hill,” she says. “There’s so much potential, so many good people. I’m excited to see how that unfolds.”

To learn more about SOAR Café & Farms or support their mission, visit soarcafeandfarms.com

Sandhill Crane Vineyards: Community in Every Pour

Written by Amanda Loveland on . Posted in Featured Stories.

Sandhill Crane Vineyards: A Jackson County Chamber Feature

Tucked in the natural beauty of Grass Lake, Sandhill Crane Vineyards awaits as a community hub that invites people to sit back, relax, enjoy company, enjoy nature and, of course, enjoy wine. Since opening its doors in 2003, this family-founded operation has grown from a modest dream into one of Jackson County’s most beloved gathering spaces; where great food, great drinks, great music and great people come together in harmony.

“I was so excited when a winery opened up in our neighborhood,” recalls Denise Saint Arnault, a University of Michigan professor and longtime supporter. “We were here as soon as they opened and have been regulars ever since.”

Denise and her partner, Deb Rowles, a retired social worker, wove themselves into the fabric of Sandhill Crane’s roots on day one. Volunteering to bottle wine and pluck grapes during harvests in the early days, they helped shape the foundation of what has become an engaging community space for all. Bringing people together is a consistent theme across Sandhill Crane’s efforts. People want to spend their time here. They want to help the winery grow.

Holly Peterson owns and operates Sandhill Crane. She is the expert winemaker behind selections such as Acoustic, a dry Seyval Blanc aged in neutral oak barrels, Lakedaze, a white wine blend with peach, citrus, and tropical flavors and Night of the Living Red, a semi sweet red spiced with cloves, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla, orange peel and the “essence of fresh-squeezed zombies.” 

Her philosophy is simple: treat everyone like family, make wine for all tastes.

Everyone’s palette is accounted for, and this approach is no different for events. This philosophy is inspired by the roots that grew the winery. Sandhill Crane Vineyards was founded by a Detroit police officer with a passion for winemaking. In Norman Moffatt’s basement, bushels of grapes purchased from the Eastern Market were used to press the first batches of Sandhill Crane wine. That passion bloomed into a full-scale vineyard committed to sourcing Michigan-grown ingredients, small-batch craftsmanship and continuous care for the wants and needs of the community. Holly Peterson is keeping her family’s dream alive. Her father’s legacy lives on through her, even naming a wine after him – Norm’s Legacy.

 “We make everything in-house,” Holly says. “Apples, blueberries, raspberries, honey – it all comes from right here in Michigan.”

But it’s the people that define the vineyard’s heart.

“There’s a reason we call it our little community center,” Deb says with a smile. From drag brunches and live concerts to art shows and crafting nights, the vineyard offers something for everyone. “You just always feel good when you’re here.”

Hiring local artists, curating interactive shows and demonstrations, hosting brunches and dinners, and partnering with nonprofits like the Jackson County Animal Shelter and Jackson Pride, Sandhill Crane fosters an environment where people from all walks of life can come together and enjoy great refreshments and great company.

Inclusivity isn’t a slogan at Sandhill Crane. Whether you’re a married couple seeking a welcoming space, a music lover chasing the next great local act, or someone simply enjoying a glass by the fire, the atmosphere is always warm, relaxed, and sincere.

That sense of belonging brings exuberant life to the winery’s many events. The annual “Running Between the Vines” race draws hundreds, if not thousands, for an early morning jog through the vines followed by well-earned delicacies. The Friday summer concert series spotlights local musicians and regional talent, providing a great opportunity to catch your favorite musicians or discover new rhythms and melodies. Outdoor seating and fire pits in the yard and on the porch complete the vibe. The vineyard’s famous drag shows regularly sell out, a testament to Sandhill Crane’s commitment to quality experiences that everyone can enjoy.

“We’ve made so many friends here,” says Megan, a regular guest alongside her partner Scott. “We even found the band for our wedding here. That’s the kind of place this is. It becomes a part of your life.”

For Holly, the mission is clear: bring more people together to enjoy art, nature, and wine. 

“We’re this small little winery out in the country, and people say, ‘One of these days I’ll visit.’ But we’re hoping that one of these days is today.”

So come out. Bring your dog. Sip some Solstice. Pair the carrot cake with Annie’s Mapleshine. Catch a concert. Sit by the fire. Make a new friend. At Sandhill Crane Vineyards, there’s always a seat at the table and a story waiting to unfold in every glass.

Visit Sandhill Crane at 4724 Walz Rd. Jackson, Mi 49201 and find the best pairing for you.

sandhillcranevineyards.com

Eagle Creek Fish Company: Stewardship, Sustainability, and a Dream Fulfilled

Written by Amanda Loveland on . Posted in Featured Stories.

Eagle Creek Fish Company stands as a quiet pioneer of local sustainable food manufacturing at the core of Jackson Michigan  where artesian water streams beneath our feet. Founder Brian Benjamin, who migrated from New York City to Jackson, established Eagle Creek Fish Company after rediscovering his love for the outdoors, and committing to a life where he follows his passion. With his profound care for the natural gifts we have inherited, Benjamin demonstrates both environmental responsibility and community involvement in his dedication to his dream.

“Jackson provides its residents with exceptional opportunity,” said Benjamin, “this Jackson aquifer provides Eagle Creek with clean, cold water that serves as an ideal environment for raising rainbow trout.”

A Natural Investment

A flow-through farm system at Eagle Creek uses naturally filtered spring water from an aquifer to create raceways that replicate river conditions throughout its 90-acre operation. Eagle Creek maintains its superior fish quality because its natural environment lacks mercury, microplastics, antibiotics, and hormones. The premium rainbow trout that Eagle Creek provides attracts  Michelin-starred chefs who serve their product at Selden Standard in Detroit and the Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island: a choice that guarantees their customers receive exceptional fish.

On top of serving high-end dining establishments, Eagle Creek Fish Company maintains an open market for the Jackson County public to buy fresh trout at affordable prices. Every Thursday, the farm welcomes visitors through its open gates for fresh and frozen trout, as well as trout products such as a rainbow trout dip, that reach families across Jackson, Albion, Grass Lake, Ann Arbor and beyond. 

“We want to connect with the people of Jackson,” Benjamin said, “this market provides us with the opportunity to give the community quality food at a great price, and we love to meet the people who make our home a great place to live and do business.”

A Dream Rooted in Stewardship

Brian followed a winding path before starting his present career. A 33-year career in the chemical industry ended when he reframed his passion for the outdoors and working with his hands. The discovery of a farm for sale came through his wife who worked at Kmart. 

“We didn’t even know what kind of farm it was!” Benjamin recalled with awe, “We got there and saw all these fish tanks which instantly grabbed our attention. It was immediately appealing.”

With a dream and a will, the Benjamins invested their entire savings into building Eagle Creek. This dream truly became a reality when they combined their hands-on commitment to fish care with complete fish life cycle management and blueberry bush cultivation on their property. Through his commitment to both land preservation and natural resource management he and his wife achieved their dream life.

“The focus here is not about establishing a big corporate entity,” Benjamin explains, “the goal involves developing a natural system that maintains sustainability alongside benefits for the land and water. We feed the earth and the community.”

A Sustainable Future

Eagle Creek continues its growth trajectory beyond current operations. Eagle Creek’s rainbow trout supply local businesses which integrate the fish into their corporate wellness programs. Brian states that rainbow trout contains abundant omega-3s which promotes brain health and cardiovascular well-being while remaining completely natural. Eagle Creek intends to continue its growth and promotion of corporate wellness programs.

“This is the food people are supposed to eat.”

Visit the Thursday Market at Eagle Creek Fish at 5883 West Michigan Ave., Jackson. For more information on Eagle Creek Fish Company visit eaglecreekfishcompany.com

The Five Forks Raises Artisanal Baking in Jackson

Written by Amanda Loveland on . Posted in Featured Stories.

A sweet success story is rising in the heart of Jackson. The Five Forks, a beloved local bakery, has become more than just a business: it’s a place to share in the joy of comfort, company, and creativity.


Founded by sisters Mallory and Maddison, this bespoke bakery and boutique emerged during the challenges of COVID-19, proving that even in difficult times, innovation, determination, a pinch of sugar, and a lot of love can make a dream come true.


Located at 1194 N. West Avenue, The Five Forks has quickly established itself as Jackson’s go-to destination for custom celebrations and daily delights.

Five Forks

Family Matters


“When the pandemic hit, I lost my job,” Maddison shared. “And Mallory decided to stay at home for family reasons. We thought we’d try decorating cakes just for fun. What started as a little side project quickly grew into something much bigger.”


The name The Five Forks holds a particularly special meaning for the sisters, as it represents their combined five children.


“We really wanted to create a legacy for our kiddos and build something special,” Mallory described. “We want to continue to give back to the community in any way that we can.”

Five Forks

A Sweet Spot in Jackson


Melt-in-your-mouth cookies, puffy frosted donuts, and custom-printed cake pops don’t even begin to describe all that The Five Forks has to offer. These sisters know how to satisfy any decadent craving. Maddison, a former chemist, takes immense pride in perfecting timeless recipes, such as her signature chocolate chip cookies and Dutch chocolate cupcakes.


“I perfected my chocolate chip cookie recipe maybe ten or twelve years ago,” she said. “I haven’t changed it since. It’s just that good.”


Meanwhile, Mallory loves experimenting with seasonal flavors and novel ideas.
“This season, we have unique holiday cookies, and we are always down to try experimental ideas,” Mallory said. “There’s always something different being tried. Our team especially loves to throw out ideas—it’s fun to see what happens when we put our heads together.”

Five Forks

More Than Just Desserts


The Five Forks is not just about treats and desserts; it’s about making a difference and building a better Jackson. Mallory, whose background includes mental health and community engagement, emphasized how giving back is central to their mission.


“We regularly work with organizations like Mama Tutu, collecting donations and supporting causes close to our hearts,” Mallory said. “For me, it’s about mental health, kids, and families. For Maddison, it’s pets and animal shelters. Any chance we get to make an impact, we take it.”


Their dedication to the community is evident in every visit to their bakery. Baked goods are just the beginning. A visit to their shop reveals a treasure trove of apparel, decor, bath, spa, and gift selections from seven local Jackson businesses. The Five Forks also hosts local vendors for pop-ups, activities, and classes to keep customers entertained while satisfying their hunger.


It’s the celebration of life and the sisters’ positive outlook that make The Five Forks such a special place. Whether crafting a first birthday cake, supporting local Jackson businesses, or enjoying a new event, they make life’s occasions a little sweeter.


“It’s always fun to see parents’ excitement when they pick up a birthday cake, or a couple celebrating their anniversary,” Maddison said. “It feels amazing to be part of those celebrations.”

Five Forks

Community-Driven Success


Being involved in Jackson’s business community has been a cornerstone of their success.
“Jackson is incredibly supportive of small businesses,” Maddison noted. “The Chamber of Commerce has been a fantastic resource for networking and visibility. It’s amazing to meet other business owners who understand your challenges and share in your successes.”


The future is bright for The Five Forks.
“The sky’s the limit,” Mallory said. “We want to continue growing, building partnerships, and expanding what we offer while staying true to our roots as moms and community supporters. We’re not just building a business; we’re building a future for our kids.”

Five Forks

Treat Yourself with The Five Forks


From their excellence in baking to their commitment to community, The Five Forks is the epitome of what makes Jackson so special. Maddison and Mallory’s story is one baked in resilience, creativity, and semi-sweet morsels—and theirs is just beginning to rise.
For your next celebration or just a sweet treat, visit The Five Forks. You’ll find more than just a bakery—you’ll find a family, a mission, and plenty of reasons to smile.


For more information about The Five Forks or to place an order, visit their location at 1194 N. West Ave., Jackson, Michigan 49202.

Peak Manufacturing: Making American Dreams a Reality

Written by Amanda Loveland on . Posted in Featured Stories.

Meet Amanda Hutchings

Amanda Hutchings never dreamed her professional journey would lead her to the helm of a successful manufacturing company. Growing up, manufacturing wasn’t even on her radar. Like many young women, Hutchings pursued a creative path, dreaming of becoming an artist.

“I thought I was going to art school, but I ended up getting a degree in marketing,” she shared, laughing at how drastically her career had shifted since her days in college.

Today, as President of Peak Manufacturing, Hutchings reflects on her unexpected journey.

“I was working for a non-profit that was housed in a manufacturing facility,” she explained. “To help cover my salary, I answered phones for the manufacturing company. That was my introduction to the industry.”

Her initial administrative role soon evolved into more responsibilities, as she progressed from office management to quality control, operations management, and eventually, president: a journey through her twenties that cemented her in her role before she even turned thirty.

“I never dreamed in a million years that I’d be the president of a manufacturing company, but I’m grateful for every step of the journey.”

Steps to Success

Hutchings climbed the ladder to success at Peak. The hands-on experience is something that Hutchings values deeply, especially in her leadership role.

“I’ve done the jobs that my team does,” she said. “It’s given me an incredible respect for the roles and the people who hold them. We’re like a big family here. Many of our employees have been with us for 10 to 15 years, working their way up from entry-level positions. We’ve all been there, and we all get it. It’s created a really strong sense of camaraderie.”

But for Hutchings, Peak Manufacturing’s success isn’t just about the bottom line: it’s about building a sustainable future for Jackson’s workforce.

Working for the Future

“I have a very strong desire to help with workforce development, especially for youth,” she emphasized.

Hutchings is passionate about introducing young people to careers in manufacturing, an industry she believes offers many untapped opportunities: especially for young, creative leaders and girls just like her.

Through her involvement with organizations like the Shop Rat Foundation, Hutchings is working to bridge this gap.

“We need to expose kids to these careers early on,” she said. “I actually have an 11-year-old son in the Shop Rat Program right now. He’s learning SOLIDWORKS, the same 3D modeling program that my engineer uses here at Peak. He’s going to be able to 3D print his designs, learning about additive manufacturing. I never imagined that my 11-year-old could be learning the same skills that professionals are using in our company, but that’s the power of these programs.”

Hutchings sees this as critical to filling the growing workforce gap in Jackson, particularly as the older generation of skilled workers approaches retirement.

“We have this huge gap coming up with baby boomers retiring,” she explained. “It’s essential that we have a pipeline of skilled workers ready to step in. That’s why programs like apprenticeships are so important. They allow adults to earn while they learn, and they’re crucial to meeting the needs of industries like ours.”

Working for Women

In addition to advocating for youth, Hutchings is also a vocal proponent of empowering women in their journey to success in manufacturing.

“Only one in four manufacturing leaders are women, and in my experience, it’s even lower than that,” she noted. “There are so many incredible opportunities for women in manufacturing, but we need to do a better job of promoting them. Women can thrive in roles like quality control, engineering, scheduling, and leadership; jobs that don’t always come to mind when people think about manufacturing.”

For Hutchings, being a role model for young women is personal. “I want girls to see the possibilities in this industry,” she said. “There are so many rewarding careers here that don’t get talked about enough. Manufacturing isn’t just about working on machines. It’s about innovation, leadership, and problem-solving. I hope to inspire the next generation of women to pursue these roles and make their mark.”

Working for Our Community

Peak Manufacturing’s commitment to workforce development extends beyond the walls of its own company. Hutchings plays an active role in the broader Jackson community, serving on the board of the Jackson County Chamber of Commerce.

For her, the connection between a healthy community and a thriving business is clear. “The most important thing for me is taking care of our employees,” she said. “Without them, we couldn’t do what we do. That’s why I’m so committed to making sure our community is a great place for them to live.”

Her involvement with the Chamber of Commerce is a reflection of this passionate dedication. “Being on the Chamber’s board allows me to contribute to the community in a meaningful way,” she shared. “If I can help make our employees’ community stronger and healthier, it benefits everyone. Our success at Peak is directly tied to the success of Jackson as a whole.”

As Hutchings looks to the future, she is optimistic about the role Peak Manufacturing will play in shaping Jackson’s economic landscape. “We’re committed to keeping manufacturing here in Jackson, in Michigan, and in the USA,” she said. “But it’s not just about the products we create -it’s about the people we empower along the way. By investing in workforce development, promoting diversity, and strengthening our community, we’re building something that will last for generations.”

Sweet Treats at Stoyanna’s: Siera Stoyanovitch’s Greek Ice Cream Dream

Written by Amanda Loveland on . Posted in Featured Stories.

The Story of Stoyanna’s

To Siera Stoyanovitch, Stoyanna’s is more than just a business, it’s a project founded in generational passion. It is a tribute to her family’s enduring legacy of Greek hospitality, exceptional quality, and heartfelt service. The spiritual successor to the Greek Villa, Stoyanna’s provides customers with the unmatched consistency they have come to expect from the Stoyanovitch name, while serving up new twists that keep people coming back.

“The thing I love about my little shop is that I can go outside, and my customers are excited to see me. They really know me! They honk their horns when they drive by and it feels like a kind neighbor. It’s such a good community,” Siera said warmly.

Stoyanna’s catering services ensure customers are satisfied with fresh-baked Greek delicacies and beyond-stellar service punctuated by a commitment to presentation and quality that is unlike any other. Now the excellence expected from Stoyanna’s catering can be found in every cone, sundae, and homemade baked good served à la mode at Stoyanna’s new ice cream stand in Jackson.

“Jackson loves ice cream,” Siera said. “There is a deep history with ice cream here, this is where the waffle cone comes from!”

Siera’s deep connection to Jackson is evident in her love for the community. “I lived in Jackson my whole life. My family came over here when my dad was two years old because there was a big Greek community here. At one time, there were over 200 Greek families in Jackson; now, there are less than 50. It’s amazing that I can continue these traditions in my own way with Stoyanna’s.”

Her knack for crafting culinary delights is deeply rooted in her family history. Her father owned DC’s Pizza, a beloved pizzeria, before the family opened the Greek Villa, which was famous for its delicious Greek dishes and desserts. After her father suffered a debilitating stroke in the late 90s, the Greek Villa closed. Siera sought to reinvent the spirit of her father’s business on her own.

“Everyone would come up to me and tell me how much they loved the Greek Villa. Everyone loved my dad. He was THAT guy! Growing up and seeing how people would treat him, and the response that they had to the Villa; my dream was to bring it all back,” Siera said.

When Siera decided to start her own catering business, she discovered that the ideal location was the very building where DC’s Pizza once thrived. Unaware of the location’s significance, her mother informed her that it was her father that owned and operated out of the building years ago. Sadly, on Mother’s Day, the day after Siera was informed of this connection, her mother passed away. This serendipitous connection to her father’s first venture made her endeavor even more special. She saw it as fate.

Stoyanna’s Catering

Stoyanna’s Catering offers full-service catering and carry-out dining, specializing in authentic Greek cuisine. Their menu features an array of homestyle Greek creations, including baklava, custard, Greek meat pie, souvlaki skewers, gyros, and more. Each dish reflects Siera’s dedication to quality and her Greek heritage.

Stoyanna’s Ice Cream

Next door to the catering service, Stoyanna’s Ice Cream continues another local legacy. Originally Scream n’ Mimi’s, the ice cream shop was entrusted to Siera by its former owner, Mimi, who retired after 20 years. Stoyanna’s Ice Cream delights customers with a unique blend of traditional and Greek-inspired flavors, adding a sweet touch to the Stoyanna’s experience. “I ran the ice cream store like Mimi did. She trained me for a whole year, and I made it my own, putting Stoyanna’s touch on everything,” Siera said.

Stoyanna’s provides more than Greek delicacies and delicious sweets; Stoyanna’s is a celebration of life. You can taste the love put into every bite of baklava and feel the grace of family tradition at every event catered. Stoyanna’s services ensure that every outing is memorable, with a menu tailored to delight guests with a variety of appetizers, entrees, and desserts. No matter what you order, no matter the occasion, every dish is made with craftsmanship generations in the making and served with a smile.

Why You Should Try Stoyanna’s

The Chamber invites you to experience Stoyanna’s Catering and Ice Cream, where every visit and every occasion is a celebration of heritage, community, and culinary excellence. Whether you’re planning a large outing or looking to beat the heat with a sweet treat, Stoyanna’s is the place to go to fill your heart and feast your appetite.

“Stoyanna’s is great portions, great quality, homemade baked goods with ice cream, and Greek with country personality. I got to start where my dad started, and I just think that was honestly meant to be.”

Visit Stoyanna’s Ice Cream at 5037 Brooklyn Road in Jackson, MI, click here to learn more about their offerings.

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