ServeGR, a new hub for volunteer efforts in the region, helps centralize opportunities for those looking to give. Where nonprofits may have previously been hampered by a lack of volunteers with the right schedule or skill set, the ease of ServeGR's use makes screening for essential talent much simpler.
As the leaders behind Grand Rapids' 311 system change and adapt the way we report everything from potholes to questions about voter registration, the data coming from the nationally recognized program is vastly improving the way residents interact with their government.
Women are overwhelmingly outnumbered by men in the computing workforce. To foster support in a world that can often feel isolating, local female design leaders from companies like Visualhero, Atomic Object, Amway, and Infor are banding together as part of a group called Ladies That UX.
Even within one of the world's largest and most prolific corporations, the stars of innovation can still shine brightly. Here in West Michigan, Sara Gonzalez is illuminating new systems within the interconnected galaxies of design and technology at Amway.
From academic assistance to emotional support, a ride to school, or even just a friend to laugh with, Laura Ward and her volunteers at Affinity Mentoring are helping young children achieve success during their crucial years of development.
West Michigan may be the right place for manufacturing, but it's The Right Place, and the economic development organization's CEO, Birgit Klohs, that are helping the industry grow.
Allison Waldron and Brave Grand Rapids are working to bring mental health out of the darkness of stigma and promote a foundation of wellness in area youth.
The Internet of Things is pushing the boundaries of technology, and West Michigan leaders have keen insights on a frontier that is revolutionizing the way the world interacts.
Atomic Object is helping young minds experiment with new ideas and methods in the annual Atomic Games, where college students build artificially intelligent systems that can learn and master board games.
Latesha Lipscomb isn't just making Grand Rapids a happier home for many in the city, she's showing the world how things get done. Along with working as a housing advocate for the Inner City Christian Federation, Lipscomb empowers women through her work at POSH Innovative Event Management, runs a successful makeup business, and leads others on the Seeds of Promise Entrepreneurial Impact Team.
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