Stephanie Thwaites has long been a cornerstone of the Munising community, known for her energy, dedication and ability to bring people together.

This holiday season, Thwaites once again spearheaded the Christmas for the Kiddos program, ensuring local families experienced the magic of Christmas.

Thwaites, who many will remember as a radio personality on WQXO, has worn many hats over the years. During her time on air, she hosted her own show, engaging listeners with an array of topics and interviews.

Her platform drew recognizable names, including Oscar-nominated talent, in support of community causes. Dream Hampton, Michael Madsen, John Hawkes, Garret Warren, Max Ryan, Richard Tyson, Jesyca Durchin, Zoe Bell and Todd Sheridan Perry were just a few of the notable guests featured during one such fundraiser benefiting the Munising Fire Department.

After stepping away from radio, Thwaites transitioned to the hospitality industry. She now serves as the manager of Boarders Inn, overseeing daily operations and providing leadership that her colleagues say reflects her dedication and compassion.

“Stephanie’s dedication to Christmas for Kiddos reflects who she is — compassionate, organized and deeply committed to her community,” said Angela Gerou, owner of Boarders Inn.

Outside of work, Thwaites is a proud mother of two sons: Zane, 21, a 2021 graduate of Munising High School, and Drake, 13, who is special needs. Both boys are adored by the community, each one with a heart reflecting their mother.

Brenda Ekberg, a paraprofessional at Munising Public Schools who works with Drake, said, “Stephanie must be a very special and amazing person — otherwise, God wouldn’t have entrusted her with watching over Drake while he’s here.”

You can often find Zane supporting his mother in her community tithing, while Thwaites, her fiancé, Brian DeLongchamp, and Zane all remain active supporters of Munising and the surrounding community.

Thwaites founded Christmas for the Kiddos in 2020 after noticing that several Alger County programs were being transferred to Marquette. “I knew we needed something here that was just for us, for our families and our kids,” Thwaites said. “Munising is home, and this program had to stay here.”

This year’s program saw 88 families adopted, providing gifts for an estimated 200 children. All elements of the program remain anonymous, preserving the dignity of the families and volunteers involved. Thwaites said that word of the program’s success has spread far beyond Alger County.

“We’ve had requests come in from as far as Iron Mountain, Manistique and even Muskegon,” she said. “But this program has always been — and will remain — focused on families here in Alger County.”

Families picked up their presents this week at the Alger Parks and Recreation Department, which serves as the hub for the program. The department provides a dedicated space for gifts to be dropped off, organized and picked up, ensuring the program runs smoothly.

“We are proud to provide space for Christmas for Kiddos and support Stephanie’s incredible work,” said Bob Wilkinson, a member of the Alger Parks and Recreation board. “The program has become a cornerstone of our community, bringing joy and relief to families during the holidays.”

This year, Thwaites noted a significant shift in the types of gifts requested. “What surprised me most was how much the requests changed,” she said. “Last year, so many kids asked for video games or gaming accessories. This year, it was outdoor things — sleds, basketballs, bikes and sports equipment. It was pretty amazing to see.”

This shift toward outdoor activities was not the only noticeable change. Thwaites also observed a growing need for basic essentials among families. “What stood out to me was how many families asked for essentials like socks, underwear and bedding,” she said. “It’s humbling and a reminder of how impactful this program is.”

Despite the program’s growth, Thwaites emphasized how seamlessly the community stepped up to meet the increased need. “There were some anxious moments where I wasn’t sure we could keep up with all the requests,” she admitted. “But I should know better by now — our elves always step up, going above and beyond to make sure no family is left behind.”

The program’s elves — volunteers and donors — are an integral part of its success. “One of my favorite parts is seeing the elves’ excitement when they drop off their gifts,” Thwaites said. “Their eyes light up just as much as the families who come to pick up the presents. In a lot of ways, I think the impact on the elves is even greater than on the families. It’s just so heartwarming to see.”

Thwaites’ leadership has long been a source of strength for the Munising community. Prior to Christmas for the Kiddos, she spent five years (2015-19) leading the Thanksgiving dinner initiative, which provided warm meals to anyone in need. “It started small, in the basement of a church, but by the final year we served 422 meals from the high school kitchen,” she said.

Munising Mayor Christine Berry praised the ripple effect of Thwaites’ work. “Christmas for Kiddos is such a great program that Stephanie Thwaites founded. It’s also so great that so many folks participate in spreading holiday cheer to families in the area.”

The community-wide response to Christmas for the Kiddos reflects the kind of spirit that defines small towns like Munising. From parents and teachers to business owners and volunteers, each person plays a role in ensuring the program’s success.

As families unwrap their gifts this Christmas, Thwaites hopes the program’s true impact will resonate. “It’s not just about the presents,” she said. “It’s about showing people that they matter — that our community is here for them, no matter what.”

Looking ahead, Thwaites remains focused on finishing this year strong. “Right now, I’m just trying to get through this,” she said with a smile. But if history is any indication, her leadership will continue to shine brighter with each passing year, reminding Munising of the power of connection, compassion and community spirit.

“Stephanie is someone who leads by example,” Gerou said. “Her work doesn’t just bring gifts to families — it brings hope, kindness and the reminder that we’re all in this together.”

For families across Munising, that reminder is what makes the season truly bright.