Ballet companies throughout Grand Rapids are breaking down negative stereotypes of boys in ballet and are making sure all children have the chance to explore a passion for dance.
The culture of work has changed. Rarely do individuals begin and end their careers in the same position, at the same desk or with the same few titles. What does that mean for West Michigan companies looking to recruit and retain talent? Well, for starters, it's a lot about a sense of place.
For young adults who are living on city streets, they will soon be able to access permanent housing that is poised to empower the individuals and significantly tackle homelessness in our community. Well House, a Grand Rapids nonprofit, is opening a youth house for individuals ages 18 to 24, and the new space will give young adults the chance to build their lives.
The Grand Rapids African American Museum & Archives is making an indelible mark on the city by showcasing and honoring the rich history and incredible contributions of the African American community in West Michigan.
For independent inventors, it can be difficult accessing the necessary space and tools to make their ideas become a reality. Here in Grand Rapids, however, older and newer groups alike are providing 'makerspaces' for these individuals throughout the city, and GR is increasingly proving to be fertile ground for our city's inventors, designers and tinkerers.
Can a book club effect change in the community? Are words on the page really enough to change minds? After eight years of a book club designed to do just that, the Fair Housing Center of West Michigan's Liz Keegan, and others, have witnessed the power of intriguing stories, open minds and honest discussions to increase awareness of social justice issues in our community.
Grand Rapids' dedication to green space has not gone unnoticed. The Michigan Recreation and Parks Association is holding its major annual trade show in GR, bringing close to 1,000 parks aficionados to Grand Rapids in an effort that showcases our city as a hub for parks and recreation.
Following a November fire that completely destroyed the future site of Rising Grinds Café, the Madison Square community is rallying behind the coffee shop that was set to open in May. The leaders backing the café are vowing to rebuild the space that aims to empower community youth, and others from the area, with jobs and training.
Two Grand Rapids groups, Family Futures and Strong Beginnings, have partnered to better serve an often marginalized community: Latinx fathers. Tackling issues such as language and cultural barriers, immigration fears, transportation needs, and education, the two organizations developed the research that led to the newly-launched Padres Fuertes program.
You've all seen the billboards, and the mantra is true: "We choose this." Since we voluntarily live in West Michigan during cold and snowy winters, we might as well enjoy ourselves. So don't be afraid of the cold; embrace it this season on West Michigan's vast trail network with these six wintery activities.
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