Stacy Bare understands the power of green space. As the executive director of Friends of Grand Rapids Parks, he’s leading the effort to build out the city’s green infrastructure with more trees and trails in neighborhoods where they haven’t been available. 

KCAD grads Justin Beitzel and Fernando Ramirez share their philosophy of regenerative design in their firm Common Object, which helps organizations take steps toward sustainability.

Lansing School District, the 14th largest school district in Michigan, operates one of the largest preschool programs in the state and offers universal pre-K.

One of the barriers to accessing COVID vaccinations for the disability community has been transportation. In response, Disability Rights Michigan has unveiled an interactive guide to help users navigate the complex transportation system in the state.

Established by Governor Whitmer, the Growing Michigan Together Council works to develop a long-term plan of action to address many issues of concern across the state. Different goals include jobs, talent, and people; infrastructure and places; PreK-12 and higher education, and revenue. Block by Block spoke with the Executive Director of the Growing Michigan Together Council and Michigan’s first Chief Growth Officer Hilary Doe, and Melvin Henley at Community Economic Development Association of Michigan to hear about the council’s report.   

More than 100 people came to a two-day clinic in Grand Rapids to get COVID vaccinations. It’s one of the many ways Disability Rights Michigan is using a grant to protect the health of the state’s most vulnerable populations. 

Certified nursing assistant training is being offered in Kalamazoo and Benton Harbor, giving people with disabilities an opportunity to earn their credentials for free.

Kent District Library is joining with AARP on “Learn a Latte,” sessions that feature experts explaining artificial intelligence, elections, and prescription medications. The program is one of several ways KDL serves older adults.

When Sandra Upton stepped up to talk about her first book, she looked onto the faces of the top leaders doing diversity and inclusion work across West Michigan. Many think of the renowned Grand Rapids-based DEI expert as their mentor.

With plans to make 2024 a year of significant investment and growth, Dwelling Place has expanded its leadership team to take on new roles.