Welcome back to Mission Control, the podcast where nonprofit leaders and community change-makers share their stories, challenges, and wins.

In this episode, host Paul Schmidt, owner of UnoDeuce Multimedia, sits down with Laurie Baumer, President and CEO of the Community Foundation in Greater Lansing. Laurie shares her journey from advertising and government work to leading one of mid-Michigan’s most impactful organizations.

She discusses the Foundation’s mission to build vibrant communities across Ingham, Eaton, and Clinton counties, and how bold placemaking projects like Rotary Park and Fish Ladder Music Park transformed Lansing’s riverfront. Laurie also reflects on her early fundraising experiences, her leadership through the pandemic, and how collaboration and trust have fueled long-term community impact.

Whether you’re in the nonprofit sector or simply inspired by local leadership, Laurie’s story is full of insight and heart.

Enjoyed the episode?

• Learn more about Laurie and the work of the Community Foundation at ⁠ourcommunity.org⁠.

• Follow Community Foundation’s latest initiatives on social media — Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, and YouTube — and get inspired by how local philanthropy is shaping the future of mid-Michigan.

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Thanks for tuning in — we’ll see you next time in the Control Center.