Mackinac Connect Looks Forward to Second Full Season

This story first appeared in the May 26, 2023, Mackinac Island Town Crier print edition

Mackinac Connect is looking forward to having a successful second season on the Island in 2023. As one fo the newest nonprofits here, the organization seeks to help Island employees connect with resources to make their time on the Island as pleasant as possible.

The first event of the season was Thursday, May 25, at the Island House Hotel, the 2023 Mackinac Connect kick-off for Island employers.

Its weekly programs start Monday, June 5, with game nights. Bingo, trivia, card games, and more will be featured. Game Nights will be held at Community Hall on Market Street.

Another regular event that Mackinac Connect highlights are the Wednesday evening free employee meals hosted at Ste. Anne Church and supported by volunteers and different local restaurants. English as a Second Language classes, and a resale event Thursday, July 13, and Friday, July 14, are also supported by the organization.

One new resource Mackinac Connect currently has in the works for the upcoming season is a coat closet at Pointe of View Art Gallery on Astor Street, where seasonal workers can get the cold-weather gear necessary for when the Island temperatures turn chilly.

In addition to volunteers, the organization is made up of a three-member board of directors made up of Jennifer Callewaert, Christi Dupre, and Sheri McCurley. Last year, they had between 10 to 12 volunteers, and this year they hope to have twice that many, said Mrs. Dupre. Mackinac Connect is open to new ideas and ways to serve the seasonal workers, and the group can even help volunteers organize their own events.

The main message from the organization is that they want people to reach out and let them know what types of support and resources they need.

“If people have ideas, we’d love to hear them,” said Mrs. McCurley.

The organization’s goal is to not only connect Island employees with each other, but to also connect them to other services, such as medical centers, transportation, and clubs or activities that can help employees with their mental health and wellbeing.

Even if Mackinac Connect can’t help employees directly, they can direct them to someone who can. Mrs. Dupre said there haven’t always been robust mental health services in northern Michigan, so it’s exciting when they get to update the website with new services.

“If we can’t do it – we’re not counselors, we’re not medical professionals – we can help direct them to those who can,” said Mrs. Dupre.