While COVID-19 has impacted seemingly every facet of daily life, young people’s lives, in particular, have been turned upside-down. With the expanded vaccine eligibility now including individuals 12 years of age and older, many parents and caregivers are weighing options when it comes to determining whether or not to have their children receive the vaccine.
As part of its mission, the Kent District Library aims to connect the community with resources to aid in personal and professional development. Part of KDL’s community outreach programming focuses on connecting underserved and underrepresented communities with job placement programs and workplace readiness resources.
Wyoming-based urban farm, Square Roots launched in 2019, and recently opened its second Michigan location last month.The modular farm-tech platform uses prefabricated shipping containers and hydroponics to produce high quality food year-round.
The Kent District Library has released its 2021-2023 Strategic Plan, outlining their purpose, vision, future goals, and core values as a community resource. The 2021-2023 business goals focus on three pillars: equity, diversity and inclusion, engagement and service, and sustainability.
As COVID-19 impacted all facets of face-to-face interactions, appointments and education, the Kent District Library has implemented resources to provide fair access to high-speed, quality internet. Through WiFi mobile hot spots, computers, iPads, and more available for checkout, local residents can access digital resources for free.
The Literacy Center of West Michigan’s Community Literacy Initiative aims to empower parents, caregivers and leaders with accessible tools and resources to improve literacy for all ages across the area. Partnering with local organizations, area schools, and district libraries, the Community Literacy Initiative develops and implements goals and strategies to improve literacy utilizing inclusive methods.
The Literacy Center of West Michigan is a finalist in the U.S. Department of Education’s Rethink Adult Ed Challenge with the opportunity to win a share of $750,000 for its pre-apprenticeship program. Their proposal creates a pathway to English instruction and skills training for West Michigan Latinas to enter the mechanical, electrical, and plumbing trades.
If Megan Feenstra Wall has anything to say about it, architecture will be a place and space for all people. Starting in January, she will be the first woman to serve as the President of the American Institute of Architects Grand Rapids (AIA GR). With her new role, she aims to transform the outdated, homogenous industry to a more diversity-driven pool of reconnected and reengaged talent.
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