There are people in every community whose quiet dedication, steady leadership, and genuine care help shape a better future for everyone. This month, we are proud to spotlight Annette Wells—Vice Chair of our Board of Directors and Executive Committee member—whose commitment to service and connection reflects the very best of Otsego County. Her passion for bringing people together and building a stronger future is felt in everything she does, both professionally and as part of our OCF family. Learn more about Annette in her own words below.
1. Tell us a little about yourself.
I’ve lived in Northern Michigan for 30 years and feel very rooted in Otsego County. What brought me here was family and over time it truly became the place our family will always call “Home”.
I serve as the Executive Director of Community Mediation Services, where I’ve spent the last 14 years working alongside incredible volunteers to help people navigate conflict in healthier ways. I’ve been in nonprofit leadership for nearly three decades, but I actually started my mediation journey as a volunteer in 2004 — and it changed my life.
Outside of work, I enjoy time with my family, being outdoors, kayaking and planning the next adventure to balance life and needs. And then there’s Raven — my black German Shepherd and what I lovingly call my “next-generation kiddo.” She keeps me active, grounded, and constantly smiling.
2. What do you love most about living in Otsego County?
I wasn’t born here, and I’ll be honest — I don’t always know all the family names, the generations, or the deep-rooted history that so many others carry with pride.
But what I love most is this: when something matters, none of that seems to matter. When our community has a need, people come together. Longtime families, new neighbors, and yes — even us “out-of-towners.”
This is a place where sleeves get rolled up, conversations happen, and people genuinely look for a brighter tomorrow. You don’t have to know every branch of the family tree to care about the future of the forest — and that’s something I truly admire about Otsego County.
3. When you think about the future, what are your hopes for our community?
My hope is that more people lean in — that they use their ears to learn about the incredible work already happening here, their hands to volunteer alongside someone new, and their voices to support and build on the many positive efforts underway in Otsego County.
When we serve shoulder to shoulder and truly listen to one another, we gain a better understanding of real community needs — and we become part of the solution. A stronger future won’t happen by accident. It will happen because we choose to show up for it.
4. What inspired you to volunteer with OCF, and what are you most excited about in your role?
OCF’s long-term vision really inspired me. Community foundations have the ability to connect generosity with meaningful impact, and that’s powerful. I’m excited to be part of an organization that is intentionally investing in the future of Otsego County.
5. Bonus: What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
“Listen first — and give people time.”
So often we demand quick answers, but when people are given the space to think, consider their choices, and respond thoughtfully, the conversation becomes more meaningful. When someone feels heard — and not rushed — they’re more likely to be honest, engaged, and part of the solution rather than simply telling you what they think you want to hear.
That principle has guided me both personally and professionally.
