Stories

Feature Story Justine Bryant is an affiliate assistant professor of ASL at GRCC. (GRCC)

ASL interpreter sees a growing need in the field, helps develop a career pathway

According to the most recent study, by the Michigan Department of Civil Rights, 733,356 Michiganders — about 7.4% of the state population — identify as deaf, deaf-blind, or hard of hearing. In West Michigan, 8% of residents identify as members of that community.  

Feature Story GRCC music student Tyler Zahnke (GRCC)

How Tyler Zahnke, a musician who is blind, is turning passion into a career

Grand Rapids singer Tyler Zahnke was one of 10 music students who are blind selected to attend the SongSight event with Scott MacIntyre, of “American Idol” fame.

Longform Lynn Hendges, Michigan Department of Health and Human Services manager of housing and homeless services.

New data management tool aims to help medically vulnerable Michiganders escape homelessness

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services is developing a standardized, statewide indicator to track not only an individual's homelessness risk but also their medical fragility. 

Feature Story KDL

Collaborating to address community mental health education and support needs

In response to community needs, the Kent District Library (KDL) has partnered with Corewell Health (formerly Spectrum Health) to offer a free mental health series. This is in addition to their regular virtual resources and physical materials available for checkout to help with anxiety, depression, health and wellness.

Feature Story Artful House

West Michigan design leadership: Discover impressive opportunities

Three impressive West Michigan design leaders share their perspectives on the opportunities for design in our area. Tara McCrackin, Marjorie Simmons, and Frances Close are all inspired by innovation.

Feature Story X

East downtown Dearborn’s CulturAlley project will transform alleys from passthroughs to destinations

“I really appreciate that they're trying to address the Arab community here and its culture and really integrating the alley project with the museum,” says Diana Abouali, Director of the Arab American National Museum. “It’s cohesive and coherent with the building and what we do.”

Development News Mockup DeStigter Architecture

Community land trust to promote affordable home ownership and retention

Dwelling Place Community Land Trust is building new, affordable single-family homes in a five-acre vacant lot in the Garfield Park neighborhood.

Feature Story Marjri Weller (GRCC)

GRCC partners with state to connect students with resources

A new partnership between Grand Rapids Community College and the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services can help connect students with outside resources to help them be successful.

Feature Story Pedals

PEDALS program helps teachers bring social and emotional learning to life in the classroom

"These are the skills that will carry them through life," says Jaletha Smith, a social-emotional coach at PEDALS. "They'll know how to handle and deal with certain challenges and traumas they might face. And if they have that social-emotional piece, the cognitive— that'll be easy for them to pick up. But you first have to have those skills to be able to sit down, listen, and follow directions to get to that."

Feature Story Raul Garcia, Homeowner Services Coach with Brittany Rabideau, a future Haven Townhome homeowner.

Habitat for Humanity building affordable housing for those with disabilities

Habitat for Humanity is building five townhomes in Holland that will be exclusively for those who have mental or physical disabilities.

Feature Story Members of the DNSWM's I&R team

Why information and referrals are key to supporting the disability community

Every day, people with disabilities find the support and help they need — quickly, conveniently, and free of charge — because of information and referral services.

Longform Nicole Shannon, systemic litigation and advocacy attorney for the Michigan Elder Justice Initiative, and Alison Hirschel, director and managing attorney of the Michigan Elder Justice Initiative.

Here's how Michigan is working to ensure court-appointed guardians don't take advantage of elders

Michigan providers and activists are working hard to ensure the guardianship system effectively serves Michigan's older adults.

Feature Story The new waiting area at the General Aviation Terminal at Chippewa County International Airport.

Soaring: New general aviation terminal opens at Chippewa County International Airport

“This project will ultimately strengthen the county’s competitive position and help build capacity that will generate economic opportunity for the region," says Chris Olson, president of the Chippewa County Economic Development Corporation.

Feature Story Our Kitchen Table

RG Community Connect: Collaboration is key in working toward a more just food system in Kent County

Gratia Lee, Good Food Systems Director at Access of West Michigan, discusses collaborative efforts to create a just food system in Kent County.

Feature Story Jazz, Carr Center

Midtown jazz and gender justice installation shifting narratives

The Carr Center has a unique history in Detroit, fulfilling a critical need for elevating Black artistic excellence in visual arts, dance, arts education, and jazz. The latest installation offers a nod to the center's past as it celebrates 30 years. 

Development News Roberto Clemente Park

Roberto Clemente Park renovation wins awards and community’s hearts

City of Grand Rapids Roberto Clemente Park award-winning renovation includes universal accessibility, new shelter/restroom facilities, discovery area playspace/outdoor classroom and natural stormwater management features.

Feature Story Early Education teacher Carla Wasson colors with students at Village of Shiny Stars

Child care workers experiencing relief from COVID-19 funds are worried about Michigan's fiscal cliff

"It's a true gap," says "Mama" Zina Davis, who runs a Detroit child care center and knows first-hand what providers and teachers are facing, not just in terms of pay, but in respect for their roles. "We shouldn't be competing with McDonald's."

Feature Story The HCAC is offering swimming lesson scholarships.

HAC Foundation launches campaign to increase access to swim programs

The Holland Aquatic Center (HAC) Foundation has announced its newest campaign that will lay the groundwork for future support to individuals and operations at the state-of-the-art indoor swimming facility.

Longform Jamie Winkler, executive director of the Salvation Army Great Lakes Harbor Light System, in a short term residential care room at the Salvation Army's Harbor Light facility in Detroit.

Medical respite care helps Michigan’s most vulnerable recuperate after hospitalization

A handful of Michigan facilities offer daily wound care, help filling and taking prescriptions, or support with substance use disorder treatment for those in need.

Feature Story GRDC employees Tom Ridgeway and Becki Kenderes stand at site of proposed lot.

Resilient Neighborhoods: Green infrastructure would address parking, drainage issues on Grand River

Plans for a green parking lot on Grand River continue, despite unforeseen challenges.