Michael P. Marsh
Years lived in Toledo: 25
Occupation: President/CEO of The Fair Housing Center. On August 1st, I will begin a new career as President and CEO at Responsive Caregivers of Hawaii.
My story, in one sentence: I take life one day at a time and believe in progress not perfection.
Most people know me for: My love of travel I’ve been to 56 countries and 39 states. People also love my two Yorkies, LuLu and Spike. There is a list of people who, in their next lifetime, want to come back as my dogs.
I wish more people knew me for: My humility and for being a homebody.
The best thing I’ve ever eaten in Toledo was: Coldwater lobster tails with beurre blanc pasta at Fifi’s Restaurant, which sadly closed after 32 years. It was my hangout for over 15 years. I met so many wonderful friends there.
The street I drive on/walk on most often is: I most often enjoy long walks through my neighborhood around Stone Oak Country Club.
The best time I ever had in Toledo: My life changed forever the day I met my partner, Sam Yoder and his mom, Geri. Over the years, I’ve been blessed with incredible opportunities and have met the most wonderful and generous, caring people in Toledo.
If I could change one thing about Toledo: Having a place that offers good açaí bowls, which are like a smoothie in a bowl. The base is a frozen açai berry packet blended with frozen banana, frozen berries, almond milk, almond butter and honey. Then you top it with granola, coconut, chocolate, fresh fruits, honey and almond butter. In Hawaii, they’re available everywhere. In Toledo I have to make them at home myself.
If I knew I could get away with it, I would: Work in Toledo during the spring and summer and work in Hawaii during the fall and winter.
The best view in Toledo: The Heights at the The Renaissance Hotel
The artists and musicians I love: Madonna, Barbra Streisand, Dolly Parton, Tina Turner and Barbara Mandrell.
The Toledoan I most admire: Lisa Rice, who is my friend and mentor. She got me started in fair housing and she recently became the President & CEO of the National Fair Housing Alliance in Washington, DC.
The reason I am most proud of myself right now: Out of 110 applicants, I was recently selected to become the new President & CEO at Responsive Caregivers of Hawaii, a non-profit promoting independence for adults with developmental disabilities.
What makes me truly feel alive: I love hiking in Hawaii. It’s an adrenaline rush. The physical exertion is always rewarded with breathtaking vistas.
The hardest decision I have made in the past year: To leave Toledo and begin a brand new life in Hawaii. It’s not easy to give up the known and embrace the unknown.
What I’m Reading: Gratitude & Trust: Six Affirmations that will Change Your Life by Paul Williams and Tracey Jackson
I could sum up my personal style with these five words: More is more not less.
The type of garment or accessory that I have the most of: Gucci—wallets, bags, luggage, belts, scarves, hats, T-shirts, shoes, sandals, sunglasses, dog carriers and even a fanny pack.
The fashion risk I wish I took sooner: Letting my hair go natural. I no longer color it and I’m lucky to have so much hair that hasn’t yet turned gray.
