This month, our Otsego Community Foundation (OCF) Volunteer Spotlight shines on Jennie Zoll. Without volunteers like Jennie, the OCF would not exist. We rely on community members like Jennie, who donate their time, energy, and expertise to the organization. Jennie is starting her second year on the OCF Finance committee. She and other committee members ensure that the OCF is a responsible steward of the almost 91 funds it manages. We are grateful that people like Jennie are willing to help us fulfill our mission.
Jennie and her husband fell in love with Northern Michigan while vacationing in this area. They decided to make Northern Michigan their permanent home ten years ago and moved from Fowlerville to Mancelona. She enjoys the outdoor lifestyle that living in Northern Michigan offers, including snowmobiling, camping, kayaking, and biking. After teaching third grade for eleven years in her hometown, Jennie started working with the AmeriCorps program at Huron Pines. Now, she is the Director of Finance and Administration, which makes her a valuable addition to the finance committee. We are grateful to Jennie for devoting her time and talents to the OCF!
Here is what Jennie has to say about her community and her experience with the OCF.
What do you love about Otsego County?
Otsego County is a wonderful place. I’ve seen firsthand how this community comes together to help and support each other. Everyone is friendly and welcoming and makes you feel that you are a part of something big. It’s wonderful to see the support of small businesses, schools, festivals, community groups, and so much more. It’s a great place to live and grow!
Why did you say YES to the OCF?
Through my work at Huron pines, I got a first-hand look at how the OCF operated. Our organization received grants from the OCF, and I liked what I saw. I valued the time and support that the OCF gives to this community. Since getting to know this area over the past decade, I wanted to become more involved but wasn’t sure how. It seemed like a perfect fit when they asked me to take a role on the finance committee.
What has volunteering with the OCF meant to you?
I have been able to meet a lot of people in the community from different companies and backgrounds that I wouldn’t have known if it weren’t for my involvement with the OCF.