When the weather doesn't cooperate, Snow Machines Inc. is able to produce snow that looks and feels just like what comes from Mother Nature. We take a look into how this local, family-owned company makes snow all over the world.

With new techniques like hydroponics and aquaponics — as well as carefully curated hoop houses — these futuristic farmers are closing the gap for fresh, home-grown, diverse produce and redefining farm-to-fork for a new generation.

Senior Neighbors helps older adults connect to local services. Not only that, but "Older adults are an important part of the fabric of our community, but outside the need to offer some of them assistance, they often go unrecognized," emphasizes President of Senior Neighbors, Robert Barnes — who established the annual "16 over 60 Awards Gala" to celebrate achievements and contributions later in life.

Lead by local futurist Mary Brown, Singularity University Grand Rapids Chapter joins 142 chapters in 66 world locations recognized as up-and-coming technology centers.The chapters focus on using exponential technologies for good.

In Battle Creek and Kalamazoo, food hubs are getting locally-grown foods into the cafeterias and onto the trays of Bronson Hospital. At the same time, they’re supporting local farming economies and healthy communities.

New American Economy and Welcoming America recently awarded the City of Grand Rapids with a matching $12,500 grant to create a welcoming task force dedicated to researching the best ways to support new Americans in our community.

"I guess for romantic purposes you could say it was always within me," mentions Zachary Pisciotta, Former Executive Chef of Reserve Wine & Food, when asked about how he became a chef. Now serving as Harvest Manager and resident farm-dinner coordinator at Green Wagon Farm, Zach is experiencing the "Farm-to-Table" phenomenon from both ends of the spectrum.

Después de haber experimentado personalmente los desafíos para encontrar un buen empleo y hace los necesarios contactos cuando se mudó a Grand Rapids hace 10 años, director ejecutivo de la Cámara de Comercio Hispana del Oeste de Michigan, Guillermo Cisneros ahora está apoyando organizaciones en West Michigan para ayudar a educar y empoderar a la comunidad empresarial latinx.

Some Michigan early childhood centers teach children the value of fresh food through hands-on gardening. From hoophouse to garden bed, these centers are planting the seeds of healthy eating for kids and their families.