Today we’d like to introduce you to Anne Nickert.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
Growing up in southwest Detroit had many advantages. Awareness, diversity, struggles and rewards. I am the oldest of a large family, we didn’t always have what we wanted but we always had what we needed with loads of love to go around. Our dinner table was large and held family, friends and neighbors for much more than food. On many occasions we were made aware of families that didn’t have enough resources to celebrate holidays or even time together. We started “adopting” families for Thanksgiving and Christmas; trying to provide not only toys, gifts but food security as well. We were introduced to the Goodfellows by a neighbor, Annie Atanian, Past President. Her enthusiasm and devotion to the families of Detroit gave us no doubt about participating in the charity. Over the years of actively participating in the many volunteer opportunities, supporting the board of directors and presidents; many of whom are friends and family (my sister; Therese Yglesias, Past President) I am honored to serve as President for 2026-2027 years.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
The Detroit Goodfellows distribution is always the most rewarding time of year. It is also the most heart wrenching. Many families pick up their packages and tell their story of the day to day struggles they experience. To be able to see a little stress drain from the parents/grandparents shoulders because they know the contents of the GOODFELLOW boxes will bring joy and hope to their children. The rewards far outnumber the tiredness of the long days. “Happy Holidays” is the constant greeting and goodbye until, next year!
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I have had a few careers in my life. Out of college I worked as a secretary to the CEO of a stock brokerage firm until his retirement. I then took a fork in the road and became a flight attendant for enough years to see the world and experience many cultures. I married the man of my dreams and started a family (2 amazing men/always will be my boys). Having retired from the airlines and seeing my boys off to school, I started working for the school district as an administrative assistant. My careers have awarded me cultural awareness, compassion and empathy for families and children in particular. I am currently retired and devoting most of my time to The Detroit Goodfellows and practicing my many crafts to keep my hands busy and out of trouble!
Before we go, is there anything else you can share with us?
It brings me pure joy to see the smiles on children when they know they are seen. Giving children hope and the opportunity to explore is heaven on earth.
Pricing:
- All donations go directly to the children.
