Features

Feature Story small-sports

High school athletes find confidence, camaraderie

At Godfrey-Lee High School, students gain confidence, friendships, and life skills through sports.  

Feature Story Some schools and programs are teaching teens how to manage their screen time instead of banning phones completely.

For teens, healthy use of smartphones is matter of balance

Many teens struggle with screen time, but some, like Northview’s Alexis VanZandt, are learning to use smartphones more mindfully.

Feature Story City of GR's Parks Director David Marquordt (in red shorts) enjoys meeting folks in our parks.

Adapting outdoor recreation in West Michigan amidst shifting seasons and climate change

As winters become shorter and seasons increasingly erratic, outdoor recreation in West Michigan is experiencing significant changes. Local leaders are exploring innovative methods to maintain year-round connections to nature through the revitalization of ski resorts, the enhancement of trail systems, and the introduction of new warm-weather activities.

Feature Story  The Hispanic Center of Western Michigan (HCWM) has acquired the Tri-Cities Puentes Initiative.

Hispanic Center expands Lakeshore reach through Tri-Cities Puentes acquisition

A merger brings vital programs under one roof, strengthening support and cultural connections for Hispanic communities across West Michigan.

Longform Lauren LaPine

Medicaid cuts would destabilize mental health care: How Michigan is responding

Proposed Medicaid funding cuts would dismantle critical services, especially for residents facing poverty, mental illness, or substance use disorders — and reduce access to mental health services for all.

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Blueprint for school funding would ensure equitable resources in special education

The MI Special Education Finance Reform Blueprint would ensure that Michigan adequately and equitably funds public special education in Michigan. 

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Dental aid helps cancer patients regain health and dignity

HNC Living Foundation provides dental care, nutrition, and support to head and neck cancer patients facing financial and treatment challenges.

Feature Story small-community-impact

West Coast’s Community Impact Day expands to unite 3K volunteers across Michigan

Michigan's first statewide Community Impact Day mobilized thousands across 191 sites, showcasing the power of collaboration and local volunteerism.

Feature Story Small-EV-Construction

Firm behind West Michigan landmarks celebrates 80 years with focus on future growth

West Michigan firm EV Construction marks 80th anniversary with expanded projects, people-centered culture, and national growth in health care and commercial sectors.

Feature Story SMALL-CAH-Gentex

Gentex powers community impact through nonprofit partnerships

Ottawa County’s largest employer fuels local change through funding, volunteerism, and innovative giving, supporting food access, housing, and safety.

Feature Story SMALL-Jennifer-Pham

Vietnamese legacy: A granddaughter claims her place in her family's story

Jennifer Pham tells the story of her grandfather’s escape from war-torn Vietnam and her family’s enduring resilience across generations.  

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Vietnamese immigrants’ sacrifices, struggles shape daughter’s identity

A daughter shares her parents’ journey from Vietnam to Grand Rapids and how their sacrifices shaped her identity and community.

Feature Story Amberly-Nguyen-GRStories

'No dream is too big’: A family’s journey from Vietnam to the U.S.

Amberly Nguyen recounts her grandparents’ journey from war-torn Vietnam to Grand Rapids, revealing a story of faith, sacrifice, and resilience.

Feature Story SMALL-Ethan-Lein

Grandson of Vietnamese refugees gratefully accepts his legacy

Ethan Lien writes about his grandparents’ escape from Vietnam, reflecting on their sacrifice, resilience, and the legacy he carries.

Feature Story Small-GR-Stories

Students preserve stories of Vietnam War survivors

East Kentwood students honor their families’ refugee journeys through oral histories about the 50th anniversary of the fall of Saigon.

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