Volunteers and staff fill thousands of bags with food each Friday for the Muskegon YMCA’s food distribution program. Each bag holds a week’s worth of breakfasts and lunches for one person 18 or younger — meeting a pressing need in the community. 

Though he’s an accomplished artist at 53, Joel Schoon-Tanis seems determined never to act his age. The Holland native takes his career seriously, but he isn’t afraid to include a few misspelled words in his projects.

Born and raised in West Michigan, Jodi van Haren brings a unique perspective to the traditionally male-dominated construction industry. Owner of Advantage Mechanical Refrigeration, van Haren is also a member of the largest Native American tribe east of the Mississippi — the Sault Ste. Marie tribe of the Chippewa Indians, a wife, a mother, grandmother and an active community member. As she reflects on 20 years in business, she shares more about her background and lessons learned along the way.

Smiles are replacing masks and hope is in the air. After nearly a year of waiting on a vaccine, health care staff are turning the tide in the battle against COVID-19.

Wormies, a local compost company specializing in vermicompost, reduces waste and builds sustainability for local gardens and a growing cannabis industry.

Three local perspectives on how the COVID-19 shutdowns have affected the arts and entertainment industry. Representing businesses most dependent on in-person gatherings including venues, performance artists, and galleries, these individuals share their reflection on the past year.

At least 21 states, including Michigan, are trying to stop the spread of zebra mussels and related invasives found in moss balls intended for aquariums. 

While at Grand Valley, Jordan Vanderham developed a mask that makes it easier to breathe while working or playing in below-freezing air. He pitched the idea in competitions across the Midwest, including events hosted by Grand Rapids-based incubator Start Garden.

On Saturday, March 12, the Michigan Organization on Adolescent Sexual Health (MOASH) hosts a statewide virtual conference, Building a Movement for Michigan (BAMM) Pride Summit that will unite LGBTQIA+ middle and high school youth from the Greater Grand Rapids area and across the state to learn, find support, and feel affirmation that they may not experience in their daily lives.