Stories

Feature Story University of Michigan Health-West is the first hospital in West Michigan to offer histotripsy, a therapy that uses ultrasound waves to destroy cancerous tumors without surgery.

UM Health-West first West Michigan hospital to offer ultrasound technology for liver tumors

University of Michigan Health-West is the first hospital in West Michigan to offer histotripsy, a therapy that uses ultrasound waves to destroy cancerous tumors without surgery.

Feature Story Zaria McCroy speaks.

Disability Network honors Southwest Michigan advocates of independence, accessibility

Two Southwest Michigan residents and an organization were honored by the Disability Network Southwest Michigan for their work to advance independence and accessibility.”

Feature Story Chris Sain Jr.

How entrepreneur and philanthropist Chris Sain Jr. supports Grand Rapids youth and education

Chris Sain Jr. uses his path from star high school athlete to millionaire investor to inspire and educate local youth.

Feature Story Children can engage with Weathering Emotions through a variety of interactive stations spread throughout the exhibition.

GR Children’s Museum exhibit helps children understand grief

“Weathering Emotions” is a new interactive exhibit at the Grand Rapids Children’s Museum designed to help children and families explore grief and other emotions.

Feature Story Davenport University and Gentex leaders formalized their commitment to education and workforce development with a signing ceremony Sept. 30 at the corporation’s office in Zeeland.

Gentex partners with Davenport University to offer scholarships for employees

Gentex Corporation is partnering with Davenport University to provide corporate education scholarships to its employees and their families.

Feature Story Executive director Sharon Caldwell-Newton of CSNIP welcomes the media to a tour with Wolverine Building Group.

New CSNIP veterinary facility to meet growing demand for affordable pet care

CSNIP’s new 12,000-square-foot clinic in Walker will double capacity, providing affordable veterinary care to West Michigan families with pets.

Feature Story Gerald R. Ford International Airport’s new sensory room offers a calming space for neurodivergent travelers, reducing anxiety and improving accessibility.

Ford airport unveils sensory room for neurodivergent travelers

Gerald R. Ford International Airport’s new sensory room offers a calming space for neurodivergent travelers, reducing anxiety and improving accessibility.

Longform Joe Volpe, program manager at Ferndale's Affirmations LGBTQ+ Community Center.

Mental health takes heavy toll on Michigan's LGBTQ youth

Mental health is a major challenge for Michigan youth in general, but the problem is even greater for the state's LGBTQ youth.

Partner Content Parents indicated that needed services like speech therapy, occupational therapy, and paraprofessional support were inadequate.

Survey activates education advocacy for Michigan children with disabilities

Special Education Experience (SEE) survey results revealed that needed improvements in special education that the state identified in 2014 have not been made.  

Feature Story Julia Kelly was selected to lead Kent County's new Public Defender Office.

Leader of new Kent Public Defender Office has experience, drive

Julia Kelly, who has extensive indigent defense experience and deep community involvement, was selected to lead Kent County's new Public Defender Office.

Feature Story Katie Moore, activation manager for Downtown Grand Rapids Inc.

Programmers help communities nurture the power of public art

Murals and other public art are being used to revitalize Grand Rapids and beyond to foster creativity, and empower local artists through innovative programs.

Feature Story small-radical-middle

KDL and World Affairs Council partner to bridge political divides with ‘Radical Middle’ series

KDL and the World Affairs Council host a three-part series in October exploring the ‘Radical Middle,’ promoting dialogue and solutions rather than polarization.

Feature Story SMALL-TechWeekGR

‘Freakonomics’ author highlights people-centered strategy during Tech Week GR

Stephen J. Dubner emphasized Grand Rapids' potential as a tech hub, highlighting the importance of human resources and fostering talent.  

Feature Story Disability Network West Michigan (DNWM) is celebrating its 25th anniversary with a block party.

Disability Network West Michigan marks 25 years of advocacy and service

DNWM is celebrating the milestone with a block party outside its Muskegon offices on Sept. 27 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. The event will feature food, music, and a tour of its facility.

Feature Story Beatrice Salgado, a preschool teacher at the Early Learning Center in Grand Rapids, was honored in the childcare category in 2023.

Front-line employees across West Michigan to be recognized

West Michigan Works! is accepting nominations through Sept. 30 for its 2024 Bev Drake Essential Service Awards. The awards recognize individuals who go above and beyond in a service industry position.

Partner Content Nicole Milton

FHLBank Indianapolis first-time home ownership program making Michiganders’ dreams a reality

FHLBank Indianapolis HomeBoost program offered up to $15,000 in down payment and closing and counseling costs assistance in its pilot year. For the program's return, those who qualify can receive up to $25,000.  

Longform A rendering of the future Fresh! by Gleaners.

Fresh food pantry set to open near Detroit, building upon other innovative Michigan models

Gleaners Community Food Bank has broken ground on Fresh! by Gleaners, an innovative concept that will make free, fresh food available to people living in Wayne and Macomb counties.

Feature Story Project Connect Flyer

Project Connect brings together Sanilac County residents and resources

Taking place 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Thursday, September 26 at the Sandusky Fairgrounds, Project Connect will share resources, services, food, health care access, and more with county residents in need.

Feature Story Local public health works alongside families.

U.P. campaign affirms “Local Public Health Cares”

The six Michigan health departments covering the whole Upper Peninsula teamed up to promote the importance of public health in their communities and raise awareness about the many services they provide.

Feature Story Holly Johnson and Tripp Frey of the Frey Foundation.

Frey Foundation turns 50: Lessons in giving for all philanthropists

Grand Rapids-based Frey Foundation celebrates 50 years of place-based giving, offering valuable lessons for philanthropists of all means and sizes.