In Greeley, tradition isn’t just something we look back on—it’s something we keep creating together. Like a Thanksgiving table filled with favorite dishes, every person, business, and organization brings something meaningful to share, adding flavor to the city we call home. This season, we’re pausing to celebrate the moments, memories, and rituals that make Greeley special. We gathered four community-forward women around the table to talk about what this season means to them. From cherished Thanksgiving memories to reflections on gratitude and community, their voices remind us that Greeley’s greatest tradition is connection—and there’s always room for one more seat at the table.
Models in this feature were dressed by Blush Boutique, located on 9th Avenue in Downtown Greeley.
Susan McKenzie, Fundraising & Development Manager for Life Stories Child & Family Advocacy
What are you most thankful for this year?
This year, I’m especially thankful for the incredible support I’ve felt since stepping into my role at Life Stories about 18 months ago. The community has come alongside me in ways I couldn’t have imagined, offering guidance, encouragement, and grace. I see support in the way local businesses, nonprofits, and volunteers come together to make a meaningful impact, showing that partnerships and collaboration can truly change lives.
What about Greeley makes you feel most grateful to live and work here?
I moved to Greeley fresh out of high school to attend UNC, and over the past 15 years, I’ve grown through the challenges of life and work while trying to find my place. Through it all, this community has been remarkably generous. Whether through my work with Life Stories, my personal business, my involvement in the arts, or partnerships with other nonprofits over the years, I have felt the same sense of care and collaboration in every corner of my life.
Shel Francis Perez, Photographer, Social Media Manager, Studio Owner
What does this season mean to you?
This season is always really special to me because it is the season my daughter was born in. The transition into the lore of fall really starts to feel like magic for my family. It's this magic that also calls me to pause and really be with family. The months feel like a quick domino tumble most years, but I always feel like I am reminded to slow down during this time of year, especially.
Think of Greeley as one big Thanksgiving table—what would you “bring” to share?
I would bring love and resonance. My photography teacher wrote in my graduation card, "You are free to create your impact." I think about that impact often, from large-scale hopes and dreams to the smaller impacts. I think this notion is so important to consider when you are building new tables or taking a seat at an already established table.
Bethany Wiley, MPH, Health Communications Specialist & Writer
Do you have a favorite Thanksgiving tradition or memory?
One of our favorite family traditions has become our Thanksgiving morning “Turkey Trot.” My husband, our three kids, and I love to kick off the day with a run. There’s something grounding and joyful about starting the day with movement, fresh air, and laughter—especially when we’re all bundled up in the crisp autumn air.
What about Greeley makes you feel most grateful to live and work here?
Since moving to Greeley in 2004, I’ve felt a deep connection to this community. One of the first things I noticed in Greeley—and still love to this day—is how genuinely kind and welcoming people are. Even though Greeley continues to grow and evolve, it still has that small-town feel—the kind where everyone seems to be connected in some way. I’ve seen firsthand how people in Greeley care deeply for one another. There’s a spirit of resilience and compassion here that makes me proud to call it home.
Kelly Zeillmann, CEO Common Good Consulting
Do you have a favorite Thanksgiving tradition or memory?
My mom always made Kentucky Hot Browns with our Thanksgiving leftovers. They are open faced turkey sandwiches on French bread with bacon and cheese sauce. I liked them better than the Thanksgiving meal. I've continued this tradition, and my kids feel the same way!
Think of Greeley as one big Thanksgiving table—what would you “bring” to share?
If Greeley were one big Thanksgiving table, I would bring connection. Community flourishes when we listen to one another, celebrate diverse voices, and work side by side toward the common good. Just like a table where every dish adds something unique, Greeley is strongest when each of us offers our gifts and talents. My contribution would be helping to weave those strengths together so that everyone feels seen, valued, and invited to belong.