We solve complex community problems with science, urgency, and stubborn optimism.
Good Works Lab is a social change agency for organizations, citizen-led initiatives, and social entrepreneurship focused on making waves in community health and wellness, citizenship, housing and youth mental health.
Through an innovative and customized approach, we help our clients put their ideas into motion with access to strategic and creative experts who give them the guidance to take their passion and voice and turn it into action and impact.
Together, we’re fueled by the belief that our world can be happier, healthier, and more just.
Always testing. Always possible. Always better.
OUR PROJECTS + CAMPAIGNS
GOOD WORKS LAB NEWS
Traverse City Walks’ 2025 Winter Challenges
Join us for fun, convenient, free walking challenges in Northern Michigan’s capital. Accept a…
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2024 Traverse City Walks, Bikes & Rolls to School Day is October 9th
Traverse City Walks, Bikes & Rolls to School Day is a community-wide, multi-school celebration…
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Why Storytelling Matters When It Comes To School Health & Wellbeing And Helping Kids Succeed
Storytelling about the positive things happening in our schools regarding student health, wellbeing and…
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2024 Traverse City Bikes To School Day is May 8th
Traverse City Bikes to School Day is a community-wide, multi-school celebration of National Bike…
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Humans of TCAPS’ School-Based Mentorship Program
Shortly after We Fight was created in December, 2021, Stephanie Slawnik pitched the idea…
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Live TC: 2024 Goals & Strategies
2023 was a decent year for abundant housing advocates in Traverse City. What’s next?…
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MEET TY SCHMIDT: GOOD WORKS LAB FOUNDER
Ty is a proven community leader and systems thinker with a background working in the nonprofit and healthcare sectors. He is a highly motivated learner and connector who is dedicated to building a happy, healthy, and just world where everyone thrives.
Before founding the Good Works Lab in 2021, Ty co-founded Carter’s Compost in 2011 and Norte in 2013.
Born and raised on the Canadian prairies, now proud northern Michigander, Ty is experienced in fundraising, project management, budgeting, strategic planning, communications, and systematic approach to complex problem-solving. He has strong public speaking, critical thinking, and research skills.
Ty is a 1999 graduate of the University of North Dakota with a master’s degree in Physical Therapy. After 18 years of practice, he’s left the PT clinic to focus on advancing social change missions.
Ty was recognized by the Traverse City Business News as a “40 Under 40” leader in 2015, gave a TEDx talk at the 2017 TEDx Traverse City, and received the Michigan Governor’s Champion of Health Award in 2019.
He lives in Traverse City with his wife, Johanna, and two sons.
GOOD WORKS LAB
The Good Works Lab solves complex community problems with science, urgency, and stubborn optimism.
Good Works Lab 