Features

Feature Story Small-yesterdog

Same dog, new tricks: Yesterdog’s legacy continues in Grand Rapids

What happens when one of Grand Rapids’ most beloved restaurants changes ownership after almost 50 years? At Yesterdog, the answer isn’t about reinvention—it’s a genuine dedication to preserving the heart of a neighborhood business.

Feature Story Click this image to watch Flora's animation about the stink bug.

Flora's animated guide to fighting invasive species

As part of Rapid Growth's Voices of Youth series, Flora Duckworth-Guerra created a two-part visual guide exploring six invasive species and how to combat them. Part two focuses on the spotted lanternfly, garlic mustard, and the stink bug.

Feature Story SMALLVOY_Flora_Duckworth-Guerra

Flora's illustrated guide to managing invasive species

As part of Rapid Growth’s Voices of Youth series, Flora Duckworth-Guerra created a two-part visual guide exploring six invasive species and how to combat them. Part one spotlights the butterfly bush, sea lamprey, and giant koi.

Feature Story smallbaynards

Grand Rapids African American Museum & Archives raising funds for expansion

GRAAMA launches $3 million campaign to expand its mission of preserving, honoring, and passing down Grand Rapids’ Black history and stories.

Longform PreK for All ensures that every 4-year-old in Michigan has access to a high-quality preschool experience, regardless of income.

“A lifeline for families,” PreK for All expands access and raises expectations

Enrollment in PreK for All is now open for all families, no matter their income. The program operates across a mixed delivery system, including local school districts, public charter schools, private child care providers, Head Start programs, and community-based organizations.    

Partner Content Event helps autistic children and adults get used to the airport environment and boarding experience.

On Board for Autism: Airport simulation helps autistic kids take flight

To help autistic people and their families manage  these challenges, Autism Alliance of Michigan (AAoM), Delta Airlines, and the Detroit Metropolitan Airport partner to host On Board for Autism events that prepare them to successfully take a flight.

Feature Story veterans

Veterans in St. Clair County can rely on community mental health

St. Clair County Community Mental Health (St. Clair County CMH) continues to meet veterans’ mental health care needs. A certified community behavioral health clinic (CCBHC), St. Clair County CMH offers veterans a wide range of services regardless of their ability to pay or residency. 

Feature Story All Gods Children teacher

No-cost pre-K for all Michigan 4-year-olds enrolling for 2025-26 school year

QA with Jeffrey Capizzano, Policy Equity Group, on the implementation of Pre-K for All no-cost preschool for Michigan 4-year-olds.

Feature Story Kat Layton

Library social worker connects patrons with resources and a listening ear

Ypsilanti District Library’s social worker bridges the gap between patrons and local resources they need — everything from housing support to simply listening without judgment.   

Feature Story Small-Pine-Rest

Pine Rest launches free webinars to boost everyday mental wellness

A new virtual series by Pine Rest equips individuals with accessible strategies to manage stress, build resilience, and support mental health.  

Feature Story Zack Sporte of Walker's Zack's Bees.

Teen beekeeper builds buzz with sustainable honey

Zack Sporte, 19, grows a thriving honey business while promoting pollinator health and sustainability in West Michigan.

Feature Story Keith Brophy

Forecasting the future: Keith Brophy on 20 years of Tech Trends and the human side of AI

Futurist Keith Brophy reflects on two decades of West Michigan Tech Trends, where artificial intelligence, community connection, and inclusive innovation converge to shape the region’s future.

Feature Story The first Talent Learning Lab in April explored AI’s role in fostering human connection in hiring.

Talent labs give insights into employer branding, promoting from within, workplace culture

The Right Place’s Talent Learning Labs offer interactive, practical sessions for HR professionals that cover shaping an employer’s brand, workforce retention, and cultivating a welcoming workplace culture.

Feature Story Small-Tara

Tara McCrackin honored with inaugural ICON Award for industry leadership

KCAD President Tara McCrackin receives IIDA Michigan’s first ICON Award for her leadership, advocacy, and dedication to interior design.  

Feature Story small-sports

High school athletes find confidence, camaraderie

At Lee High School, students gain confidence, friendships, and life skills through sports.  

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