Michael's Legacy:
A Hand Worth Playing

Before Michael passed away, he created a nonprofit organization — Copeland Cares Gives Back, doing business as Michael's Meals. Growing up, Michael was never a big fan of Christmas. In true Michael fashion, he turned that negative into something positive.

More than a decade ago, he started Michael's Meals and began raising money to provide Christmas dinners for families in need. What started as a small act of kindness grew year after year through Michael's passion, generosity, and determination. By 2024, Michael's Meals was providing Christmas dinners for more than 150 families.

As a professional chef, Michael understood that food was about more than nourishment. It was about family gathered around a table. It was about neighbors helping neighbors. It was about making sure no one felt forgotten during the holidays.

He also loved poker. Anyone who spent time around a poker table with Michael knows it wasn't really about the cards. It was about the friendships, the stories, the laughter, and bringing people together.

Every year, volunteers come together to assemble Christmas meal baskets and organize deliveries throughout our community. Just days before Christmas, volunteers load vehicles and personally deliver meals and gifts to families who need a little extra hope during the holiday season.

For many recipients, that knock on the door means more than food. It means someone cares. It means they have not been forgotten.

That is Michael's true legacy. Every meal delivered. Every gift shared. Every sponsorship secured. Every raffle item donated. Every hand dealt at the poker tournament helps continue the work he loved most — bringing people together, feeding both body and soul, and giving back to the community he cherished.