
ABOUT
GD Placemaking
GD Placemaking is committed to creating lasting value. Our mission is to elevate communities, property owners, and businesses by partnering to turn dreams into reality. We believe in the power of collaboration and innovation to transform spaces and drive sustainable growth.
Our Team

Rae Gosling, Co-Founder, Director of Community Engagement
rae@gdplacemaking.com | Phone: 231-753-6102
Rae's role as a small business owner (Hidden Nook Booksellers) is a departure from her previous job as Michigan Main Street (MMS) director for the city of Grayling, a position she held for seven years. During her tenure, Gosling planned special events and worked on programming and technical services for the community’s businesses. The community was part of the inaugural Project Rising Tide program, which provided communities with the tools and technical assistance to become better positioned for redevelopment opportunities.​

Deirdre Fortino, Director of Operations
dee@gdplacemaking.com | Phone: 231-753-6102
With over 12 years of experience in the hospitality industry, Dee has built a distinguished career dedicated to enhancing team member experiences and operational excellence. Most recently, she served as the Manager of Team Member Experience at Cooper’s Hawk Winery & Restaurant in Lee’s Summit, Missouri, where she focused on fostering a positive workplace culture. Before that, Dee was a General Manager at Drury Hotels in St. Louis, Missouri, where she honed her leadership skills and operational strategies.
Dee holds a Master’s Degree in Historic Preservation, showcasing her passion for preserving the past while effectively managing the present. Her academic background enriches her approach to operations, blending historical insight with modern practices.

Lindsey Dotson, Co-Founder
Director of Small Business Engagement
lindsey@gdplacemaking.com | Phone: 231-753-6102
Lindsey has served as the Housing Ready Program Coordinator covering Emmet and Kalkaska Counties for Housing North since August of 2024 as a consultant. Before that, Lindsey served as the DDA Director and Historic District Commission Coordinator for the City of Charlevoix for over 7.5 years.
Lindsey has a master’s degree in Historic Preservation from Eastern Michigan University, a bachelor's in Health Science from Grand Valley State University, and over 11 years of experience in community and economic development. Lindsey is a certified Main Street America Revitalization Professional and a facilitator of Jon Schallert's Destination Creation Course for small businesses.

Trevor Dotson, Head Researcher & Geneaologist
trevor@chxhistory.com | Phone: 231-547-0373
Trevor Dotson is the Operations Manager for the Charlevoix Historical Society and has been with the organization since 2017. He has a Master's in Historic Preservation from Eastern Michigan University and obtained his bachelor's at Western Michigan University.
Trevor served on the editorial committee and was the principal researcher for David L. Miles's recently published book Boulders: The Life and Creations of Earl A. Young in Charlevoix, Michigan, which is a Library of Michigan 2021 Notable Book and a Historical Society of Michigan State History Award Recipient. Trevor is also the President of the Norwood Area Historical Society and serves as a Planning Commissioner and Historic District Commissioner for Norwood Township.