Author

Carly Lillard

Carly Lillard

Carly Lillard has called Michigan’s Great Lakes Bay Region home since 2007. She works in fund development and communications and enjoys helping organizations share their stories and connect with the community. Carly earned a bachelor’s degree in Business from Northwood University and a master’s in Strategic Communication from Michigan State University. Outside of writing, she loves spending time with her husband, Jesse, and their two children, Maycie and Elias. You can reach her at carlylillard@gmail.com.

Carly Lillard's Latest Articles

Mackenzie Render
Teach Me Tuesdays: Building confidence through real world learning

Mrs. Render is helping students gain independence and dignity through hands-on life skills and meaningful connections.

From classroom to call ready, the Saginaw Fire Department prepares students for the future

A unique high school fire academy prepares students to enter the workforce with certifications, skills, and a strong sense of purpose.

Students find their rhythm on the river with Bay City Rowing Club

Along the Saginaw River, students at the Bay City Rowing Club are learning teamwork, trust and confidence through rowing. What began as an adult club expanded in 2018 to include youth, welcoming beginners and guiding them from rowing machines to the water. For rowers like Addison Butcher, it offers a calming outlet and a strong sense of connection.

Small Town, Big Heart: Freeland Fabricators build more than robots

In the “Bot Cave,” the Freeland Fabricators are building more than a robot. They are building confidence, leadership, friendships and a sense of purpose. While the team has earned international recognition in FIRST Robotics, students say the real impact goes far beyond competition, shaping who they are and how they show up for their community.

A new view from the saddle: Midland Police introduce mounted patrol

Midland’s first-ever mounted patrol unit is bringing a quieter, more approachable form of policing to community events, creating new opportunities for connection.

Regional collaboration leads the way in building the future workforce

The partnership between the Midland County Educational Service Agency and the Mid-Michigan Manufacturers Association highlights what happens when schools and industry move in step.

From Baton Rouge to Midland: A Story of roots, resilience, and sisterhood

La’Toya Anderson’s journey from Baton Rouge to Midland is rooted in family, creativity, and a desire to build community.

Battalion Chief Mark Laux
When the tones drop: A day inside the Midland Fire Department

From routine checks to urgent calls, a day with Midland firefighters uncovers the unseen work behind the sirens.

Midland’s Service Club Alliance simplifies grantmaking to better support local nonprofits

Midland’s Service Club Alliance simplifies grantmaking by uniting service clubs through one shared application to better support local nonprofits.

Miracle League Athlete with Buddy
Where everyone belongs: Adaptive sports bringing joy and connection to Midland

Lifelines of friendship, empowerment, and belonging for families of all abilities.

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