Press Releases

The funds were raised by donations of the Team Members of Odawa Casino Resort through an optional Blue Jean Day in which the team members donate $5.00 once a month to the designated organization in exchange for a day to swap their dress pants for a pair of jeans. We have had four Blue Jean Days this year, and have raised a total of $1,785.00.

We recently asked our team members to become more involved in the process by asking for their suggestions of deserving organizations and why they felt that they would be the best recipient.

June’s recipient was suggested by Tracy Hadix, Payroll Supervisor at Odawa Casino Resort. When asked why she chose Hospice of Little Traverse Bay, she said, “My husband, Sam and I had a personal experience with Hospice of Little Traverse Bay when we lost our son Zakery in January, 2005. They helped explain to our five year old what happened, and the support we received was wonderful. We also have had previous encounters; cancer runs in both our families and Hospice has provided amazing support.” 

Lisa Ashley, Executive Director of Hospice of Little Traverse Bay said, “I was thrilled to hear that someone within the casino had selected Hospice as the recipient of the Jean Day funds. This organization was created by the community to support the community, and it is these types of activities that allow us to continue to provide high quality care for those at the end of life. I am personally grateful for the support provided by the Odawa Casino employees through this project.”

Owned and operated by the Little Traverse Bay Bands of Odawa Indians, the $140 million Odawa Casino Resort was named BEST CASINO IN MICHIGAN in 2009. The Petoskey resort opened in June, 2007 and features 1,500 slot machines, 29 table games, 5 table Poker Room, BINGO, several restaurants, gift stores, a nightclub and a 137-room hotel.