The foundation plans to distribute $1.4 million in more than 300 scholarships to more than 1,000 students this year, and students can apply by filling out just one application. The priority deadline is March 15.

Sickle cell disease affects more than 100,000 individuals in the United States and especially those of African American descent. Sickle cell disease patients need regular blood transfusions and two years of the COVID-19 pandemic have made that even more difficult — but there is hope.

Facing health disparities, many health care organizations are working to answer the question, “How do we deliver equitable care?” Spectrum Health aims to address the issue by providing the community with targeted resources and initiatives.

Before Black History Month comes to an end, it is a great time to discover new attractions and educational opportunities highlighting Black culture and impact. Take a look at photos of places to visit as you navigate throughout the city.

The war on drugs has had a lasting disproportionate impact on many communities. With the legalization of cannabis, the city’s proposed nonprofit will help heal some of this harm while advancing social equity throughout the cannabis industry.

Issue Media Group is excited to announce the company’s latest online media project – Rural Innovation eXchange (RIX). RIX will focus on the innovation, talent, entrepreneurship, social innovation and community development taking place in rural Michigan and feature the work of rural talent and content creators.   

Located in downtown Grand Rapids, a bodega has opened, offering a wide variety of sandwiches, made to order salads as well as meats and cheeses by the pound. The husband and wife owners are seeking to bring the New York-style staple to the city.

Housing Kent seeks to increase access to affordable housing and decrease homelessness by intentionally focusing on eliminating racial disparities in housing.

Chad Morton checks back in with Rapid Growth's Publisher Tommy Allen on the anniversary of this local startup's Published Together piece from 2021. 

Max Tendero believes that civics is a vehicle that, when given the right attention, thought and effort, can start moving us in a better direction.