Why I Give: Carol Tenwalde
Executive Director’s Note: Sadly Carol passed away unexpectedly before printing and we would like to honor her with this article. We will deeply miss her warmth, creativity, and generosity at The Holland Center. There will be an empty place at the Winter Artisan Market without her, and her absence will be felt in the many classes and lectures she loved. Her spirit will live on in the friendships, laughter and creativity she shared here.
When Carol Tenwalde began getting involved in The Holland Center’s art shows and artisan markets, she discovered not only a place to share her creativity but also a mission worth supporting. And it all started with her own creative journey as a child.
Creative Journey
Carol’s love for crafting started at just 6 years old when she helped her father win “best dressed” at a Halloween party by creating a one-eyed, one-horned, flying, purple people eater costume with purple crepe paper galore. From that point on, creativity became a family tradition, with July 4th powwows dedicated to planning ahead for Halloween costumes.
Her passion for making things with her hands never faded. While her husband recovered from hip surgery, Carol turned to jewelry-making as an outlet. She developed her own wire-wrapping technique, which she calls “Twisted Sister,” and discovered how vital creative expression was for her mental health and joy.
Why She Gives
“I started giving to The Holland Center because it felt personal as opposed to large charities,” Carol said. “What’s different about giving here is that the fruit of donations are visible every day in every aspect of their operations. There’s no question where your money goes when you see the lights on, people walking out of classes with a sense of accomplishment, artists thriving after a show, the AC keeping us cool…”
For Carol, that visibility is what makes supporting The Holland Center with monthly donations so fulfilling. She says she is inspired by how The Holland Center nurtures creativity and connection for people of all ages. “Connecting socially is important to me too,” Carol said. “And I like that The Holland Center provides many opportunities for that.”
One of her favorite experiences is participating in the Winter Artisan Market, where she sells her jewelry year after year. “Every year there are repeat customers that I exchange stories and giggles with, which makes my artist career so rewarding.”
For Carol, donating to The Holland Center means more than writing a check. It means keeping the lights on for community classes, supporting artists, and ensuring the center continues to be a hub for connection and creativity.
