Bonnie Chang
City of Madison Municipal Clerk, Madison, WI
This November/Thanksgiving, Bonnie is grateful for the power of community; for the people who show up, lift each other up, and remind her that progress happens when we work together with care. She is thankful for the spaces that welcome every voice and for the joy that comes from shared purpose. Bonnie is grateful for family, chosen family, friends, community members, and colleagues who inspire hope even in challenging times, and for the chance to keep learning, growing, and giving back.
Jasmin Gutierrez
ULGM Administrative Assistant, Madison, WI
Jasmin is grateful for her family and close friends. She shares how her parents have been “anchors” of support for her, pushing her outside of her comfort zone into the big world of possibility. They have begun to show her what all she is capable of and celebrate her personal and professional journey. Jasmin is also grateful for her job at the Urban League of Greater Madison. Before the Urban League, she primarily stayed home away from the public, but executive leaders like Jim Horn, Chief Financial Officer of the Urban League of Greater Madison, taught her the value and possibility of a work life balance. Jasmin is also grateful for her two children and the time they get to spend with one another.
Monica Bruce
Community Research Navigator, McFarland, WI
Monica is grateful for a lot this Thanksgiving. She shares that it is hard to narrow down her blessings because despite there being so much happening around us, she has her family, a fulfilling job, and her health! Monica works with older adults to help them live happy and healthier lives and declares that “health is wealth”. She is also grateful for the sisterhood of the Madison Alumnae chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated – Kappa Psi Omega. The women of Kappa Psi Omega have given her an outlet and the opportunity to form meaningful relationships. Monica looks forward to continuing to find the good and celebrate the small wins as they swing her way this holiday season.
Zaniya Lewis(12) & Zack Burton(9)
Students, Cottage Grove, WI
Siblings, Zaniya and Zack are grateful for life’s basic necessities. They both shared that they are happy to have food, clothing, and shelter. Zack adds that he is also grateful for reliable transportation to and from school. His life and ability to wake up everyday is something he also gives thanks for this time of year. Zaniya shares that they are the most grateful to have a mother that loves them and family. They plan to spend this year’s Thanksgiving with their extended family in town.
