As families gather to celebrate the holidays, many are also taking the time to give back to those who are less fortunate. And on this giving Tuesday, I wanted to find out how people determine where they place their hard-earned dollars.

"To make sure it gets to the people in need that's the main thing," said Daniel Woods.

"Anything to do with supporting the community," said Gavin Doucette.

Charitable giving increases during this time of year and many choose non-profits that align with their values and make the most impact, but they also like to know where their hard-earned dollars go.

I spoke with Daniel Woods about what factors determine where he donates his money.

"Normally its the Salvation Army, because they've always given to the community to the people in need more than anybody else not saying anyone hasn't given as much but their out reach to the community we see it more," Daniel said.

One of the most common themes I found when I was speaking with people is transparency on where their donations go.

"It's paying it forward and it's helping a child or a mother or a family be able to enjoy a special time," said Pamela Burke.

Burke is the project manager at the Lennon Center in Dearborn Heights, a pregnancy resource center that helps women and families. All the funds raised, she says, for this non-profit stay directly with the communities in Metro Detroit.

"They go straight to our families. We just help our moms with just basic needs diapers, wipes," Pamela said.

"Donations are critically important for the work that we do," said Courtney Smith.

Smith is the CEO of the Detroit Phoenix Center, a 501(c)(3) high-impact non-profit organization that provides housing, academic, youth leadership and other wrap-around services helping Detroit youth in need. She says this time of year is critical for donations.

"We know people are the most charitable around the holiday season which is the winter season. But we see the most year-round. But with it getting cold outside we see the most need around this time," Courtney said.

All of the donations they receive also stay right here in the community.

"It goes right towards the people who need it the most to meet their most basic needs," Courtney said.

And when it comes to selecting non-profits, many donors also consider the organization's reputation and accountability.

"We just don't want to see it getting spread out and being told its going here and not seeing it reach out to them. The people actually getting the product and whatever they need to receive," Daniel said.

"Having money that builds this community up it pretty important," Gavin said.

Where Your Voice Matters

The Holiday Season is already here and many families are faced with the age-old question: should we go for a real Christmas tree or a fake one?

Both choices come with their own unique advantages and drawbacks, sparking lively debates among friends and family.

Some argue that nothing can replace the authentic experience of a real tree, while others sqear by the practicality and ease of maintaining an artificial one.

I spoke with Metro Detroiters to see what they have to say about this age-old debate and what they're choosing to go with this year.

"I grew up with a fake tree," said Emily Alaniz.

"There's something about going out and getting one and chopping it down yourself or buying one," said Pat Hickey.

"Real these days," said Michael Fields. "I was always artificial growing up."

Nothing says Christmas quite like a real tree and many would argue that the real ones have a charm that many families cherish.

"It's more of a nostalgic feeling like one of my favorite movies Christmas Vacation he goes out and cuts the tree out in the woods like that type of feeling," Michael said.

For those shopping for a real tree, they say it's the experience of selecting their tree and making memories that will last forever. But between Pat and Emily, a decision had to be made between real or fake.

"I think she was okay with it, Idon't know if she had too much of an opinion against it," Pat said.

"I was like 'this isn't going to be an argument' that like I just can't win, he's like, 'it's got to be a real tree, it smells better' this and that, so I gave in."

"It's a family event, it's more than pulling the tree out of the closet," said Vincenzo Vultaggio.

Vultaggio has a tree stand in Madison Heights, and his family has been in this business for generations. He says the trees are about 7-12 years old.

"A bulk of our customers that come back," Vincenzo said. "They are returners people who have been coming to us for years but we are getting a lot of first-timers as of late."

Both trees have their advantages and disadvantages.

Real trees bring a fresh scene, are bio-degradable and recyclable, but often cost a pretty penny, require maintenance, are a fire hazard, and can trigger allergies. Artificial trees are cost-effective with less maintenance, but there are environmental concerns. Not to mention, fake trees are non-recyclable and a fire risk.

I had to find those buying the artificial trees like Cameron Livingston, who says real trees are just too much work.

"I have always gotten real trees but they're a lot of maintenance, there's a lot of watering and a lot of cleaning up you have to do," Cameron said.

Sarah and Michael Grice were out looking at artificial trees. They say it's worth the cost and less maintenance.

"We were just talking about this in the car," Sarah said. "It was paid off and instead of paying 100 dollars each year for a real tree. Plus it dies and makes a mess."

So whether you choose a real or fake tree, the decision ultimately comes down to personal preference.

"Try out getting a real tree every once in a while, you might like it," Pat said.

Where Your Voice Matters

Thanksgiving is over and Black Friday and the holiday shopping season is upon us. There's less than a month to get all of that shopping done, and it's crunch time.

This year's holiday shopping season is one of the shortest we've seen in years, so if you haven't started looking for that perfect gift, now is the time to get out so you're not waiting until the last minute.

"I like pressure. That's how I base my life, so more pressure the better I perform even on shopping," Mark Dushaj said.

"If I don't have it done by the time Christmas comes around, in my eyes with my girl math, I save money," Desseray Seay added.

Shoppers flocked to Partridge Creek Mall to try and get a head start on their holiday shopping.

"I feel as though I have to get everything done right now or else it's not going to get done," Caitlyn Barbieri said.

This is tied for the shortest holiday shopping season we've seen in 20 years.

"Some of the sales started earlier this week then they are here again on black Friday throughout the course of the weekend all the way to the end of the holiday," Melissa Morang said.

Even though sales started early, it's leaving many shoppers like Barbieri to rethink their holiday shopping strategies.

"This is my only opportunity to shop, when I am home for Thanksgiving, because I am going on a trip as soon as I end finals week," she said.

"Do you feel a little more pressure than years prior to get your holiday shopping done early?"I asked.

"Yes because of school and work," Emily Tomlian said.

"I would say no just because I just really have to shop for my family and that is not a whole lot," Evelyn Gore said.

"I started shopping earlier than usual. My grandkids are in from Virginia so we are celebrating Christmas and Thanksgiving early this year," Cynthia Schroeder said.

Shoppers like Seay says as her kids get older, it's less stressful, even with the shortened shopping period.

"I don't see it being shorter. I get to give money and gift cards now so it's okay with me," Seay said.

Where Your Voice Matters

Every day, Detroit firefighters risk their lives to help protect the community they serve.

It's personal when we come and see you, said firefighter William Belser. Its personal that we leave you in a better situation than we first encountered you.

The challenges of this profession are major. Firefighter Brian Davidson said, There are things we deal with on this job that we can't bring home and dont discuss with our family members.

Commissioner Chuck Simms added: They come to work and put themselves in danger to save others, and thats what the fire department is all about.

When a call comes in, the Detroit Fire Department wastes no time getting to the scene. Recently, members of the 8th Battalion were honored for their bravery and dedication to the people of Detroit. In 2024, they were recognized on four different occasions for the lives they saved during various emergency calls.

They dont look for any accolades or recognition, but we like them to know how much they are appreciated, Commissioner Simms noted.

One standout moment was on June 24, when firefighter Brian Davidson entered a burning house and rescued an 85-year-old man trapped inside.

Today, he was honored for his quick actions.

A lot of these runs play a tremendous role in our mental and physical health, Davidson said, so its good to have this type of camaraderie and love that we have in here.

Chief Carl Billings from the 8th Battalion said, They might have a citation for this incident, but the other 500 peoples lives that theyve changedthats just a regular day.

The firefighters operate as one big family, often spending time away from their own loved ones.

Take 20-year-old Carter Kovarik, who joined the department at 18, eager to make a difference.

I just like making a difference in the community, especially with the little kids, he shared. I can connect with them, especially people around my age, and help them out.

This Thanksgiving, the firefighters express gratitude not only for the community they protect, but also for one another.

William Belser said, We truly care. I want to say the whole department; you dont have many guys that are about themselves.

We're diving into the world of holiday travel, and the little things other people may do that can turn a dream vacation into a frustrating experience. We all have those pet peeves that tend to rear their heads when we hit the road or fly the skies.

Sometimes the small annoyances like reclining your seat or standing up right when the plane lands can lead to major frustration. I went to Detroit Metro Airport to find out what other pet peeves travelers have.

"When the plane lands and everyone gets up like they're in a rush to get somewhere but nobody is going anywhere because the door is closed," said Gabreil Paredes.

"Reclining your seat," said Tyrone Laws.

From standing up when the plane lands with nowhere to go and the reclining of the seat, these aren't the only pet peeves on people's minds. It's that dreaded middle seat and bare feet.

"One of my biggest pet peeves is when people are rude about their space kind of elbowing into you," said Alex Steinberg.

"People take their shoes off on the plane," said Alexandra Pollack. "Leave your shoes on. This isn't our living room."

"Maybe if they're not prepared and they take a little too long in security but I'm pretty chill," Tyrone said.

And boarding before your group number is called.

"My mom does this all the time and it really annoys me," Gabreil said. "She tries to go on like group three when she's group eight and I'm like 'lady don't do that don't mess with the system.'"

"You just called your mom out. Do you feel bad?" I asked Gabreil.

No," he responded. "Not at all."

"I see some of the worst behavior during the thanksgiving and Christmas travel time," said Valerie Sokolosky.

I spoke with Sokolosky, an expert in travel etiquette, to find out how you can avoid being that person everyone is annoyed with.

"Bottom line it's about caring about other people you know the world didn't know you were the most important person," Sokolosky said.

I then hit the road to see what pet peeves drivers had.

"My biggest pet peeve when driving is when people don't signal or use their blinkers correctly," Brandon Dell said. "I just feel like it causes accidents way to often."

"First would have to be distracted by the cell phone makes me think they're an irresponsible driver and secondly, i don't want to hear your music," said Karen Maras.

"People texting on their cell phones waiting for the light to turn green," Brandon said.

And back at the airport, the No. 1 Pet Peeve is, you guessed it, rude travelers.

"I Just think it's important to be mindful and respectful when you're traveling," Alex said.

"People who are not considerate of others," Alexandra said.

Where Your Voice Matters

In a devastating incident last week, several families in Orion Township were displaced after a condo explosion left two people critically injured.

As the dust settles, those affected are now focused on recovering their personal belongings and seeking assistance from the community.

Fire Chief Ryan Allen indicated that it could take up to six months to determine the cause of the explosion, which damaged a total of 20 units.

"We want to ensure a thorough investigation is done to prevent something like this from happening again in the future," he said, urging the community to be patient as they work through the investigation.

Residents like Scully Hirsack, her husband Adam and their friend Jason Poupard are among those grappling with the aftermath.

We dont know where we are going to go. We dont know where we are going to end up, Scully said, reflecting on the uncertainty that lies ahead.

The Hirsacks had lived in their condo for the past decade, saving for a down payment on what they hoped would be their forever home. However, those plans are now temporarily on hold.

We dont think about the costs until we run face first into them, Scully said as friends and family helped them gather valuable items from their damaged home to prevent further loss.

Poupard expressed concern over irreplaceable personal items, saying The little things that dont have a price tag that really make you human.

As they packed their belongings into cars for storage, Scully said We do not know what the long-term plan is for housing.

The community has rallied to support the displaced families, with the Hirsacks setting up a GoFundMe page to assist in their recovery efforts.

Poupard remains hopeful.

Were going to move... My family is going to find a new place. Were going to be together and its going to be alright.

As we approach Thanksgiving, families across the country are gearing up for feasts, but one question looms large: what will be the main dish this year? Is Turkey still the staple in your family, or do you turn to another option like ham or prime rib?

I took a closer look at the Main Dish Dilemma. I wanted to know: what's for dinner in Metro Detroit? And if you're serving turkey, how do you prepare the perfect bird?

"It's not even my favorite thing turkey but it's Thanksgiving you got to have turkey," said Christa Alix.

Willie Watkins is cooking ham for Thanksgiving this year.

"Ham is actually on the list," he told me. "Honey baked always, it's a must."

"Turkey for sure," said Kayla Kirkland.

"What is your secret to cooking the bird?" I asked Gabrielle Hayes.

"My husband," she responded.

For generations, the turkey has been the star of the Thanksgiving table, symbolizing abundance and gratitude. But with changing taste buds, and the decision on what to serve can often lead to family debates.

"Is it the fried turkey or the oven baked turkey?" I asked Willie.

"Actually it's the roasted turkey in my family," he responded. "But these last couple of years, they tried to throw that fried turkey in there, but I don't really care for it."

To get a sense of the culinary landscape and how to cook the perfect bird so it doesn't turn out dry, I headed over to Jumps Restaurant in Grosse Pointe Farms.

"Every chef you talk to will probably give you a different answer," said Chad Stewart.

Stewart, the owner of Jumps, has been at it for decades, offering his turkey strategy.

What I like to do is take my turkeys and I brine them for 72 hours," Stewart said. "After my 72 hours take that bird out and dry it all off cover it all up put it in a real low oven at 200 degrees, 180-200 degrees and I will slow cook that bird for 15-18 hours depending (on) what size it is."

As families continue to explore their options it's clear that the Thanksgiving table is evolving. However, the focus remains on gathering and celebrating with loved ones over a home-cooked meal.

"It symbolizes gratitude just the opportunity to enjoy each other enjoy family over the best feast ever," Kayla said.

"The most important thing is not the food to me in our family home we all tell each other what we are thankful for and that's the part that gets me," Willie said/

Where Your Voice Matters

The Holiday season is at our doorsteps, and shoppers everywhere are gearing up for one of the biggest shopping days of the year: Black Friday.

Online shopping and navigating the sales can both exciting and overwhelming. In-store shopping has it's perks, but many consumers are opting to shop online this year, so I asked Metro Detroiters how they're navigating the sales this shopping season.

"Not really doing any physical shopping," Jarett Stennis told me. "Everything online."

"I do go shopping online but I like the stores too," said Darlene Clint.

"I have been having to go online to find more unique things," Andrew Seabright said.

Shoppers are flocking to both brick-and-mortar stores and online, in search of the perfect gifts this Holiday season. Amazon has already launched their Black Friday deals online today.

Vic Veda with the Michigan Retail Federation says this year will be a robust Holiday Shopping season, with many consumers eager to start their shopping earlier than in previous years.

"E-commerce is not going anywhere. 57 percent of shoppers surveyed by the NRF say they're shopping online," Vic said. "Holiday shopping is expected to reach a record this year between two and three percent last year.

Here are some tips that you can use navigating Black Friday:

Beware of 'big savings' hype Read stores' return policies thoroughly Use a credit card with purchase protection perks Read independent product reviews

The popularity of online shopping continues to grow, with many consumers opting for the convenience of browsing and purchasing from home. Jarett is one of those online shoppers.

It's more convenient its because of crowds too," Jarett said. "It's really everything about going to the store. I am kind of lazy you feel me?

You can buy pretty much anything online these days, including televisions, toys, gaming consoles and gift cards. So, what are the top things Michiganders are buying online?

Gift cards Clothing & accessories Books & other media Technology

The people who I spoke with today are looking for deals online this Holiday season.

"Albums, video games, I know there's a lot of good video games this year," Andrew said.

"Online shopping it will work out for me i am primarily looking for gifts for my nieces and nephews this year," said Ryan Harvey.

"My nephew just bought a house so I am looking for some house hold items for him and the usual Christmas goodies," Darlene said.

"Shoes clothes and stuff for the kid that's about it," Jarett said.

Where Your Voice Matters