Page 21 - Michigan Credit Union League: 2018 Contact Q3

lineage leukemia (MLL) at 2 years old; Winnie was diagnosed
with neuroblastoma at just 3 months old.

Baby Winnie defeated her cancer just before her first birthday,
but unfortunately her brother’s MLL relapsed in April 2017.
Thanks to a successful bone marrow transplant in November
2017, though, Rowan was able to make a full recovery.

Because of Rowan’s low immune system, the Neumanns
had many expensive home renovations to do. Karen shared
how, with the help of 18 local businesses, the YouCaring
fundraising platform and many willing local volunteers, she
was able to help the family find the resources they needed to
update their home to keep all their children happy and healthy.

“I was excited to share my experience with a ‘miracle make-
over’ of a family’s home in Clio,” said Church. “It’s a moving
story with a happy ending.”

The Neumanns’ story has been made into a documentary
that will premiere on Oct. 4 at the newly renovated Capitol
Theatre in downtown Flint. Everyone is welcome to attend
and share in this incredible story of hope and community.

“Why Teens are Relevant” Peters showcased a teenage boy who built an app to help

Carma Peters, Michigan Legacy Credit Union those in need find free food in their community, a young

woman who runs her own international nonprofit to empower

Carma Peters, CEO of Michigan Legacy Credit Union and women worldwide, and the high school team from Chelsea,

chair of the Downriver Chapter of Credit Unions, used her Mich., who won the National Personal Finance Challenge.

IGNITE presentation to talk about the relevance of teens in

today’s world. “Youth of today are not afraid to speak their voice, and they’re

collectively organizing,” said Peters. “That’s something we’re

“Picking a topic was easy because I’ve been a youth leader, kind of familiar with; it’s called a ‘grassroots movement.’

so I’m very passionate about it,” said Peters. “Being involved Capture that energy.”

with teens that make a difference in our communities has

always been very inspiring.” A Public Speaking Opportunity With a Twist

In her presentation, Peters aimed to change the audience’s IGNITE provides an opportunity for speakers to get comfortable

perspective on teens and recognize their importance to the in front of crowds while facing the challenge of staying concise.

marketplace and to credit union success. She challenged

common misconceptions of teens as disengaged and uninter- “It was a wonderful experience,” said Peters. “For a first speak-

ested, sharing stories about teen mission trips she has led. ing engagement, if you can nail down an IGNITE session, you

can nail down anything.”

“These kids would save their money and spend a week of

their summer vacation in the Appalachian Mountains in The key is practice. Both Church and Peters emphasized the

Kentucky and in the inner city providing activities for kids need to practice, practice, practice to get the timing just right

that otherwise wouldn’t have the opportunity,” said Peters and feel confident going into the session.

during her presentation. “In fact, some of them even saved

their money to travel to Nicaragua to a remote village, mixing “Being an IGNITE participant was exhilarating,” said Church.

concrete by hand to build that feeding pavilion.” “It was fun to learn more about each of the participants as

they shared their special stories.”

THIRD QUARTER 2018  I  CONTACT 21