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give back my time to help it stay strong for all future generations to also enjoy.
Strategic planning involves visionary thinking, adaptability and accountability, which are all qualities that I possess. I feel that through over 30 years of CCR committee work, my passion for collaborative thinking, ethical leadership and innovation has been tested. In conclusion, I want to help Canada Creek Ranch maintain its heritage and adapt to changing times without compromising the values and goals of the founding members.
Mark Peltier
Professional Board Experience Over the course of my career, I have held a variety of leadership roles that have allowed me to develop and refine strategic, operational, and financial management skills. Previously, I lead a team that created a 501c( 3) supporting the sheriff dive rescue recovery team in St. Clair County, Michigan. I was responsible for revamping an original nonprofit that was created 40 years ago. It required a complete overhaul to comply with current regulations at the state and federal level. After a successful implementation, I served as the board chair for 2 years and treasurer for four years. Currently, the nonprofit has been very successful in its goal to support the dive team for equipment, training and community events and education.
Previously, I served as a board member of St. Clair County American Red Cross, where I was instrumental in guiding the goals and objectives of the chapter.
I also served as a co-chair of a small residential community in Fort Gratiot, Michigan.
Educational Background My academic journey has been fundamental in shaping my approach to leadership and strategic thinking. I earned my bachelor’ s degree in accounting from Michigan State University. The rigorous curriculum and hands-on projects provided me with critical analytical tools and a global
perspective on organizational challenges.
Beyond formal education, until my career ending injury, I continually sought professional development opportunities. Attending workshops, state conferences, and specialized seminars that allowed me to remain current with emerging trends and best practices in corporate governance and strategic management. My commitment to lifelong learning was a cornerstone of my
Board Candidate Bios
professional philosophy and directly informs the value I aim to bring to the board.
Board Knowledge and Expertise Throughout my professional board journey, I have developed a deep and broad understanding of the board operations. My work has encompassed areas such as strategic planning, risk management, regulatory compliance, and innovative operational practices.
My expertise extends to effective stakeholder engagement, where I have successfully collaborated with diverse groups— including executive leadership, community representatives, and regulatory experts— to foster inclusive decision-making and strategic innovation. My experience equips me to contribute both a macro-level vision and practical, detail-oriented strategies to board discussions.
Personal Achievements and Community Involvement In addition to my professional board experience and academic endeavors, I have a longstanding commitment to community service. I had been a member of St. Clair County Sheriff Dive Rescue and Recovery Unit for 15 plus years. I was an important member of the team ranging from tending divers, being a diver myself, sonar operations and boat operations and training. I also was a county hazmat responder, with expertise in railcar and on-road hazmat incidents.
I also was a BLS instructor / instructor trainer for over 20 years.
Experience at Canada Creek Ranch My grandparents, Louie and Norma Peltier became members in the 1960’ s. My parents, Ray and Nancy Peltier, became members in the 1970’ s. My grandparents retired here. My parents retired here. My sister and brother-in-law are members. I have several extended family that are also current and past members. My father was a past board member. I learned all I know about Canada Creek Ranch from my family and my personal experiences. I have always wanted to live on the ranch. After my injury four years ago, I decided to move here and stay the rest of my life. I have always loved it here. I understand the history and how the Ranch was always known as the working person’ s paradise. I am committed to never forget that blue collar workers, who worked hard for every penny, managed to save enough to enjoy the real paradise of this ranch. We need to continue to provide the opportunity for those same workers today to become members. I am very opposed for this ranch to turn into some exclusive club with exorbitant membership fees and overburdening rules. Given the current economy, where families must sacrifice some wants or desires for actual needs, the Ranch also needs to review their services to define where we can cut and sacrifice, the same as family budgets do. These choices are not permanent, with the expectation that it will improve as the overall economic climate improves or changes. Continual processes and
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