by Matt Pegouskie

Every year, 5 Healthy Towns Foundation (5HF) hires an intern to help us meet our mission, while providing the intern with a learning experience about what it’s like to work in a nonprofit environment focused on small, close-knit communities. 

Last year, Stockbridge-area residents and community leaders met with Michigan State University graduate student (now alumni) Katie Hogan.  As part of her final requirements to graduate, Hogan interviewed representatives from Stockbridge Community Schools, Stockbridge Community Outreach, the Village of Stockbridge, Stockbridge Area Wellness Coalition, and others to examine the availability and accessibility of healthier foods. This review included folks throughout the entirety of the Stockbridge School District, including Munith and Gregory.

Beginning this August, a new intern and graduate from MSU will be starting her internship with 5 Healthy Towns. Claire Smith will join 5HF to support the community outreach efforts of three important organizations: Stockbridge Community Outreach, Stockbridge Area Senior Center and the Open-Air Market (OAM) of Stockbridge.  Smith will also be supporting the One Big Thing initiative.

Smith’s background and experience in data analysis set her apart from other candidates. She is looking forward to hitting the ground running in Stockbridge. Smith’s initial tasks will include assisting the OAM with administrative tasks like establishing a tiered-sponsor program for recognizing our sponsors, promoting the Market Bucks Program, identifying new small farmers to add more options at the market; and building a plan for the 2027 Open Air Market.

Please join us in giving Claire Smith a warm welcome to Stockbridge.

This column is sponsored by the Stockbridge Area Wellness Coalition (SAWC). Matt Pegouskie is the community investment manager.

Photos provided by Matt Pegouskie