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At a Glance

Things I Can Help You With:

The Youth Grantmakers’ Summer Leadership Conference and MCFYP's social media channels.


Get to know Laken

Describe what you do in your role. 

In my role, I connect with members of the Michigan Community Foundations Youth Project (MCFYP) and CMF members who are engaged with youth philanthropy to support youth grantmakers throughout the state. I help to plan the Youth Grantmakers Summer Leadership Conference and I also help to manage the MCFYP social media platforms.  

What do you enjoy the most about your work? 

I enjoy connecting with our MCFYP members and my peers on a regular basis. They are bright, inspirational citizens that deeply care about youth philanthropy, advocacy and the overall wellbeing of youth in Michigan. I enjoy their insight and perspectives and am constantly in awe of the people I get to engage with in this position.  

What are the causes you’re most passionate about? 

I am most passionate about rural development and clean water initiatives.  

What inspires, challenges or motivates you? 

CMF’s internal staff book club read and discussed “Firekeeper’s Daughter” by Angeline Boulley, a Native American author from northern Michigan. I am inspired, challenged and motivated by the ideas she put into words in her book. I am inspired to use my talents for good, challenged to speak up when necessary and motivated to encourage others to do so.  

What do you love about Michigan? 

I love Michigan’s natural beauty! I am from the east side, specifically the Thumb region where the beaches are stony and flat, with waves that barely lap a foot high. I have relocated to the west side of the state to find much the opposite in every sense. Michigan is so diverse when it comes to the cultures and climate of the state. I love calling this state home. 

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