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.  

Feature Story Some schools and programs are teaching teens how to manage their screen time instead of banning phones completely.

For teens, healthy use of smartphones is matter of balance

Many teens struggle with screen time, but some, like Northview’s Alexis VanZandt, are learning to use smartphones more mindfully.

Feature Story City of GR's Parks Director David Marquordt (in red shorts) enjoys meeting folks in our parks.

Adapting outdoor recreation in West Michigan amidst shifting seasons and climate change

As winters become shorter and seasons increasingly erratic, outdoor recreation in West Michigan is experiencing significant changes. Local leaders are exploring innovative methods to maintain year-round connections to nature through the revitalization of ski resorts, the enhancement of trail systems, and the introduction of new warm-weather activities.

Feature Story  The Hispanic Center of Western Michigan (HCWM) has acquired the Tri-Cities Puentes Initiative.

Hispanic Center expands Lakeshore reach through Tri-Cities Puentes acquisition

A merger brings vital programs under one roof, strengthening support and cultural connections for Hispanic communities across West Michigan.

Longform Lauren LaPine

Medicaid cuts would destabilize mental health care: How Michigan is responding

Proposed Medicaid funding cuts would dismantle critical services, especially for residents facing poverty, mental illness, or substance use disorders — and reduce access to mental health services for all.

Partner Content Boy in classroom

Blueprint for school funding would ensure equitable resources in special education

The MI Special Education Finance Reform Blueprint would ensure that Michigan adequately and equitably funds public special education in Michigan. 

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Dental aid helps cancer patients regain health and dignity

HNC Living Foundation provides dental care, nutrition, and support to head and neck cancer patients facing financial and treatment challenges.

Feature Story small-community-impact

West Coast’s Community Impact Day expands to unite 3K volunteers across Michigan

Michigan's first statewide Community Impact Day mobilized thousands across 191 sites, showcasing the power of collaboration and local volunteerism.

Feature Story Small-EV-Construction

Firm behind West Michigan landmarks celebrates 80 years with focus on future growth

West Michigan firm EV Construction marks 80th anniversary with expanded projects, people-centered culture, and national growth in health care and commercial sectors.

Feature Story SMALL-CAH-Gentex

Gentex powers community impact through nonprofit partnerships

Ottawa County’s largest employer fuels local change through funding, volunteerism, and innovative giving, supporting food access, housing, and safety.