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Feature Story Photo by Tyler Herbstreith

Sharing insights and exploring nature: Creating an experience along the Grand River

Tyler Herbstreith and Leandra NisbetWednesday, August 2, 2023
Hosted by the Grand Rapids Public Library, the Grand River Walk presented community members with a guided experience, highlighting the habitat, conversation, wildlife and more. The event provided exposure to the outdoors, art, entertainment and education.
Feature Story Courtesy of John Rumery at West Michigan Tech Talent

Meetups and networking initiatives bringing tech professionals together in Grand Rapids

Shanika P. CarterTuesday, August 1, 2023
Already recognized as a research and innovation hub with a thriving regional economy, Grand Rapids is also evolving into a tech hub further supporting a growing business metropolis in West Michigan.
Longform A group of community health workers were trained as part of the Macomb County Regional Health Equity Advisory Council's work.

Michigan's regional health equity councils pursue long-term efforts to eliminate health disparities

Estelle SlootmakerThursday, July 27, 2023
Last year the state formed 11 regional councils to spend about a year addressing health disparities in underserved communities – and they're already set to continue their work beyond that period.
Feature Story Courtesy of Feeding America West Michigan

Nourishing healthy minds and bodies through collaboration and beyond

Leandra NisbetWednesday, July 26, 2023
Leveraging 15 branches and its Bookmobile, Kent District Library seeks to engage with the community by increasing convenience and accessibility through a partnership with Feeding America of West Michigan and beyond.
Feature Story Courtesy Kayla Parks

When it comes to fighting for LGBTQ+ rights, Michigan is a leader

Kayla Parks and Michelle LitteralWednesday, July 26, 2023
As LGTBQ+ legislation changes, lives are continuously affected. Two teens share their insights as members of the LGTBQ+ community, including challenges, advocacy and recent legal changes.
Development News Courtesy

Michigan Green Communities bestows “gold status” to the City of Grand RapidsPart II: Greening the municipal infrastructure

Estelle Slootmaker, Development News EditorMonday, July 24, 2023
Michigan Green Communities award also speaks to the city’s commitment to decrease its municipal carbon footprint, increase recycling efforts and responsibly manage its water system.
Feature Story Charles “Charlie” Elwood and Chris Martin using version 2.0 of Martin’s voice for the first time at Carpe Latte Coffee Shop.

AI app gives voice to those who’ve lost theirs

Paul R. KopenkoskeyFriday, July 21, 2023
Throat cancer required the removal of Chris Martin’s larynx in 2020, resulting in his loss of speech. An AI app has made it possible for him to talk again — in his own voice. Now, this technology is being developed for others to use.
Feature Story Alexx Smith, recipient of the 2022 Bob Davis Independent Living Award, stands with Disability Network Southwest Michigan staff member Mary Fortney.

DNSWM highlights ‘remarkable progress’ with ADA Celebration

Kelsey SandersFriday, July 21, 2023
The Disability Network Southwest Michigan will mark this year’s Americans with Disabilities Act anniversary with a celebration on July 28  at the Kalamazoo Farmers Market.
Longform Citizen action team members in the Citizenship for Health program discuss their mission and vision for community issues they want to take action on.

Detroit program engages community members to democratically develop solutions to health disparities

Estelle SlootmakerThursday, July 20, 2023
An innovative initiative is chipping away at health disparities in Detroit’s Hope Village neighborhood by looking to community members as leaders and learners in their own lives.
Longform Early Education Matters,

Pre-K for All will improve long-term health, education, and social outcomes for children

Estelle SlootmakerWednesday, July 19, 2023
Pre-K for All is really about ensuring that all Michigan children enjoy academic success.  
Feature Story Dr. Hank Paulson is a neurologist at University of Michigan Health and director of the Michigan Alzheimer’s Disease Center.

PODCAST: Inside the rapidly expanding field of dementia research

Patrick DunnWednesday, July 19, 2023
One of the most frustrating and scary things about dementia is that we still know breathtakingly little about it. But the medical community in Michigan, as in the rest of the U.S., is currently working at unprecedented speed to change that.
Partner Content Sensory rooms in doctor’s offices can improve the experience for ASD families.

Corner Health sensory room makes accessing healthcare easier for people living with autism

Autism Alliance of MichiganTuesday, July 18, 2023
For people on the autism spectrum, simple healthcare tasks such as routine vaccinations or annual check-ups can be a challenge. Sensory rooms are one way to overcome that challenge.
Feature Story Photo by Tommy Allen

Creating community and pride within the design scene in West Michigan

Shanika P. CarterMonday, July 17, 2023
The design scene has grown organically in West Michigan over the past decade. Design industry contributors have continued to help in the rise of the design scene since the COVID pandemic, and more social events for designers in the region are coming up.
Longform SOCIAL Program volunteers Keen Parra and Brooklynn Wilton with their client, Tammirah, at center.

Student volunteers relieve caregivers and build intergenerational friendships through new program

Estelle SlootmakerThursday, July 13, 2023
Students are connecting with, caring for, and learning from older adults through a new intergenerational program that also addresses Michigan’s caregiver shortage.
Development News Courtesy

Michigan Green Communities bestows “gold status” to the City of Grand RapidsPart I: Greening vulnerable neighborhoods and growing understanding

Estelle Slootmaker, Development News EditorWednesday, July 12, 2023
Michigan Green Communities has awarded “gold status” to the City of Grand Rapids. The Strategic Plan focuses on sustainability carbon reductions, green space, water quality, waste and health disparities.
Feature Story Saline resident Jim Mangi is a care partner to his wife, Kathleen, who has Alzheimer's disease.

PODCAST: Building support for dementia caregiving challenges

Patrick DunnWednesday, July 12, 2023
Becoming a caregiver to a person living with dementia is a challenging process. We talked with Michigan caregivers about their struggles, their successes, and the resources and support they need to do their vital work.
Feature Story Courtesy

Advocating for STEAM opportunities this summer in West and SW Michigan

Shanika P. CarterWednesday, July 12, 2023
Throughout our region, supporting STEAM’D (science, technology, engineering, art, math and design) is the focus of organizations and programs that are working to encourage the next generation to pursue opportunities within these industries.
Longform SUDs were a topic of discussion at the June 2023 CMHAM conference.

Opioid settlement dollars will strengthen community mental health response to opioid use disorders

Joanne Bailey-BoorsmaTuesday, July 11, 2023
Medication-assisted treatment, Narcan kits, and recovery housing are some of the programs that could be funded through opioid settlement dollars. 
Feature Story The band Flexadecibel performs at Party in the Park in 2022.

Disability Network West Michigan hosts inclusive Party in the Park on July 28

Kelsey SandersMonday, July 10, 2023
Disability Network West Michigan is making the Party in the Park on July 28 accessible in several ways, from having ASL interpreters to wheelchair-accessible seating.
Feature Story Courtesy of Desmond Jones' Facebook page

Chris Bota and Desmond Jones find their work-life balance in music

Bill LeeSunday, July 9, 2023
Chris Bota has not looked back as he and other members of West Michigan jam band Desmond Jones have toured different parts of the country (Colorado, the West Coast and the Northeast) bringing their unique sound to their audiences.
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