Grand Traverse Industries

09/23/2026

We are so saddened by the loss of our friend and volunteer, Mike Libby.

Mike had a tremendous impact on our Team Members and on the entire Grand Traverse community. He was one of GTI’s most faithful volunteers, generously sharing so many of his gifts with us. He taught art, photographed our events, played his ukulele, and most importantly, gave his time and friendship to our Team Members.

Mike may be best remembered for his unforgettable role as Dr. Heinz Spoknik in last years short film, Cherry Traverse: Three Wreaths of Christmas: https://youtu.be/AJTII5nv8vI?si=Bce6p6ZQ8Q2zOpc3&t=165

Mike lived an incredibly full life as an artist, educator, musician, photographer, performer, volunteer, husband, father, and friend. We feel so fortunate that, among all the ways he chose to spend his time and talents, he chose to share so much of them with us.

We will miss you, Mike. Thank you for everything you gave to our Team Members.

View Michael Lawrence Libby's obituary, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

09/23/2026

A huge thank you to the Michigan Credit Union League & Affiliates FUELmi District 2 group for spending the day with us!

These incredible young professionals started their day by touring GTI to learn more about our organization, then jumped right in alongside our Team Members for a full day of arts and crafts, dancing, karaoke, and plenty of laughs :)

We love seeing young professionals who genuinely care about people with disabilities and are willing to give their time to build connections, learn more about the people we serve, and have some fun with us.

09/22/2026

After two years of working toward her employment goals with the support of GTI’s job coaches, Liz has officially landed her first job at Burger King! 🎉🍔

We are so proud of how much this young lady has grown! Most importantly, we’re excited to see Liz pursuing the kind of employment she chooses and building a future that reflects her own goals.

Congratulations, Liz! We are always here for you and we can’t wait to see all you will accomplish! 💙

09/21/2026

Just another day in Mancelona. 😂💃

09/20/2026

Thanks for the opportunity Jack O'Malley!

September 17, 2026: In the WTCM NewsTalk 580 studio with Austin Darga, spokesperson, and Dayna Ryan, Operations Director, Grand Traverse Industries as they head to a GTI gardening event. Austin is a familiar figure at Midwestern Broadcasting on several stations. Get to know Austin here in a recent video created for a leadership scholarship opportunity to be announced after Sept 2026. https://youtu.be/XyDp59LT6YQ?is=5M_yzmHUctjzbGIr

09/18/2026

❤️ Giving back in Fife Lake!

Today, our Mancelona program spent time helping Love Locker Project - Fife Lake hang clothing so it can be distributed to the lockers in Fife Lake and Kalkaska.

We’re proud of our Team Members for giving their time and helping their neighbors! 👏

09/17/2026

🦁💙 LET’S GO Detroit Lions! 💙🦁

09/16/2026

You don’t have to be the loudest person in the room to make a lasting impression. Luke shows us that through the pride he takes in his work, the friendships he builds, and the kindness he shows to those around him.

Together, we’ve helped Luke build a life filled with purpose. He takes pride in his work with our manufacturing partner, Plascon, where his attention to detail and reliability have made him a valued member of the team. His confidence comes from knowing his work matters and that he belongs.

Luke’s story is about more than work. Whether he’s sharing his love of birds through GTI’s Bird Watchers Club, singing with friends, or appearing alongside his sweetheart, Jennifer, in GTI’s Royal Christmas Miracle film inspired by Hallmark movies, Luke embraces each new experience and enjoys every moment.

🎬 Watch Luke’s movie here: https://youtu.be/Rc_qojndxGs?si=zcnS30y2hEYV0wnb

Luke reminds us that a meaningful life isn’t defined by being the loudest voice in the room. It’s built by having a place to belong and the chance to contribute. Our community is stronger because Luke is part of it. 💙

09/15/2026

Dayna and Micah are excited to be presenting at this years Incompass Michigan Recon Conference!

Join Micah Haven and Dayna Ryan for their presentation "Remember Your Why" at re:con the convention of new beginnings this November 18-20 at the Grand Traverse Resort.

Learn more at www.mi-recon.org

09/15/2026

🥙 A huge thank you to Chris Semposki and his team at Pita Way for providing lunch for our Traverse City program yesterday!

Everyone absolutely loved it! And a special thank you to those on Facebook who voted for GTI and helped make this lunch possible.

If you haven’t tried Pita Way yet, our staff recommends the chicken shawarma with white sauce! 😋