Features

Feature Story Tim Klont is the CEO of MSHDA.

Regional Housing Partnerships do the critical work locally to move needle on Statewide Housing Plan

Michigan’s first-ever Statewide Housing Plan was released in June 2022, almost three years ago. A little over the halfway point of the comprehensive five-year plan, stakeholders and collaborative partners look at just how critical regional housing partnerships are in their own communities — moving the needle forward across the entire state. 

Feature Story "Teenagers matter. They’re a part of our communities, our families, our friendships. Their feelings and their struggles matter." Eve Cole

Teens and mental health: The emotions beneath the behaviors

Today’s teens face numerous challenges to their mental health, and nearly one in five teens surveyed reported experiencing a major depressive episode in the past year. In 2023, nearly a third of U.S. teens received mental health treatment, according to the CDC report. In Michigan, some of those teens saw practitioners and joined groups at OnPoint, which provides behavioral health and homelessness services in Allegan County.  

Feature Story All Gods Children Developmental Learning Center plans to be certified by  Michigan’s free PreK for All program by fall of 2025.

Detroit early education center preparing littles for “the next phase in life” despite challenges

All of Gods Children Developmental Learning Center in Detroit exemplifies the need for addressing early education professionals low wages and the need for increased state child care subsidies.

Feature Story Jennifer Maxson

Published Together: Why investing in mentorship means investing in Michigan

Grand Rapids is leading in job growth; however, many employers still struggle to retain talent. In RG's version of the op-ed, Jennifer Maxson of Jennifer Maxson & Associates argues that mentorship—not additional hiring—is the key to building stronger teams, fostering a sense of belonging, and securing Michigan’s future.

Feature Story Raquel Guzman and Robert Anthony Alvarez at their firm's "quinceañera" celebration at the Goei Center on June 18.

Avanti Law marks 15 years with scholarships for GR students

Avanti Law Group celebrated its anniversary by awarding 17 scholarships through its nonprofit, supporting students across Grand Rapids in high school, college, and law school.

Feature Story Volunteers help out at Ken-O-Sha Park

Grand Rapids park becomes ground zero for ecological and cultural restoration

Scientists and Indigenous leaders partner to restore native plant life and cultural practices in one of Michigan’s most biodiverse urban parks.

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Human connection, not code: West Michigan CEOs say right-brain leadership is the future of work

Two West Michigan CEOs unveil a book on neuroscience-based leadership intended to help organizations scale culture, foster connection, and unlock team potential.

Feature Story Newaygo is among the communities receiving money for placemaking projects.

West Michigan communities awarded grants to help with placemaking projects

West Michigan communities receive $1.3M RAP funding to create parks, pavilions, and community hubs that transform vacant spaces into gathering places.

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Julia Child exhibit draws food lovers from across West Michigan to Muskegon

An interactive Julia Child exhibit at the Muskegon Museum of Art is attracting visitors region-wide with cooking demos, history, and events through Sept. 1.

Feature Story Gentex employees volunteer at the company's annual electronics recycling event.

Gentex recycling event boosts community engagement with sustainability

Gentex’s annual electronics recycling event empowers employees, families, and friends to reduce e-waste and support environmental responsibility.

Feature Story Small-yesterdog

Same dog, new tricks: Yesterdog’s legacy continues in Grand Rapids

What happens when one of Grand Rapids’ most beloved restaurants changes ownership after almost 50 years? At Yesterdog, the answer isn’t about reinvention—it’s a genuine dedication to preserving the heart of a neighborhood business.

Feature Story Click this image to watch Flora's animation about the stink bug.

Flora's animated guide to fighting invasive species

As part of Rapid Growth's Voices of Youth series, Flora Duckworth-Guerra created a two-part visual guide exploring six invasive species and how to combat them. Part two focuses on the spotted lanternfly, garlic mustard, and the stink bug.

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Flora's illustrated guide to managing invasive species

As part of Rapid Growth’s Voices of Youth series, Flora Duckworth-Guerra created a two-part visual guide exploring six invasive species and how to combat them. Part one spotlights the butterfly bush, sea lamprey, and giant koi.

Feature Story smallbaynards

Grand Rapids African American Museum & Archives raising funds for expansion

GRAAMA launches $3 million campaign to expand its mission of preserving, honoring, and passing down Grand Rapids’ Black history and stories.

Longform PreK for All ensures that every 4-year-old in Michigan has access to a high-quality preschool experience, regardless of income.

“A lifeline for families,” PreK for All expands access and raises expectations

Enrollment in PreK for All is now open for all families, no matter their income. The program operates across a mixed delivery system, including local school districts, public charter schools, private child care providers, Head Start programs, and community-based organizations.    

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