Community Leader 

Michael Thomas

Hello! My name is Michael Thomas. I am married to my lovely wife, Debra. And between the two of us, we have 6 children – Yes! Here's a Story!!!! I graduated from the University of Tennessee with a BA degree. Several years ago, I started working for a 28-year-old family breakfast cafe. But when the Pandemic hit, we were forced to lay off and unfortunately, I was one of them. I spent many nights discussing with my wife, family, and friends the direction I should go. I also had lots of quiet times asking for guidance. I knew that I loved making connections with people by being in this industry, but I also knew that the way some places are organized and run can be toxic. I did not want to go back to that. I needed to be somewhere that fed the hearts, minds and souls of not only the people you are serving, but also the people that make the ship stay afloat. So, I contemplated maybe venturing out on my own. And then, through the storm, there came Maple Street. I don't know who found who first, but I am glad we found each other. From the first conversation I had with Maple Street, I knew I found home. I am so happy to be a part of a community that truly believes in putting others first, being kind to each other and actively making a difference in the lives of those they touch.