How a gaming group created a friendship circle for people with disabilities
Disability Network Northern Michigan’s gaming group reduced isolation, inspired friendships, and even inspired an effort to create a nonprofit for railroad preservation.
Shandra Martinez's Latest Articles
Startup tackles food system inefficiency with direct farm-to-home delivery
Zeeland-based Locavana expands delivery, helping residents buy local food easily while increasing farmer earnings and improving access across West Michigan communities.
New talent report highlights AI gap, workforce shifts in region
The Right Place’s 2026 Talent Report outlines AI challenges, labor shifts, and strategies to attract, develop, and retain the regional workforce.
Library classes help residents learn skills, build community connections
At Kent District Library, in-person classes help residents learn practical skills while meeting neighbors and building connections in their community.
Ticket to Work helps people with disabilities return to work safely
The program offers guidance and support so people with disabilities can work without losing benefits, addressing fears, complexity, and financial instability.
West Michigan accessibility event expands regionally amid rising demand
Absolutely Accessible grows beyond Kent County, drawing larger crowds, new partners, and an expanded focus on housing, design, and regional accessibility solutions.
West Michigan program links food access to student learning
Kids’ Food Basket pairs meals with nutrition education, helping West Michigan students improve focus, try more nutritious foods, and build healthy habits.
Michigan Food Club Network names leader to expand innovative model
Lura Barber leads statewide Food Club Network expansion, scaling grocery-style access model that improves food choice, dignity, and community-driven solutions.
Gentex engineers help nonprofits improve efficiency
Gentex engineers apply manufacturing skills to streamline donations, boost volunteer impact, and expand services at Community Action House and Kids’ Food Basket.
The Established Home mother-daughter designers launch children’s book to help families navigate life transitions
West Michigan design duo Jean Stoffer and her daughter, Grace Start, share a new children’s book offering families practical, faith-centered strategies to help children cope with moves and change.
