Partnering up to make storytelling a creative outlet for all in GR
The Mosaic Film Experience focuses on connecting students with cognitive disabilities with opportunities to continue their journey to other platforms.
Shanika P. Carter's Latest Articles
TalentFirst: Economic success through talent development
A declining labor force means more talent development is needed. Other issues targeted for the current state of the labor market include childcare shortage as well as racial and ethnicity gaps.
Start Garden win lifts third-generation restaurateur’s dreams to next level
After winning the 2022 Start Garden 100 pitch competition, third-generation Muskegon Heights restaurateur Marisela Sierra is ready to get Navarro’s Mexican Takeout’s stone-ground tamales into the freezers of local retailers.
MCC’s new chief diversity officer promotes celebration of all cultures
Ken James is Muskegon Community College’s inaugural chief diversity officer. With nearly 30 years as a DEI professional, James is bringing “the lens of diversity, equity and inclusion” to the institution’s four stakeholder groups.
Muskegon professionals find success, happiness close to home
Why are professionals choosing to live in Muskegon? Lake Michigan beaches, bike trails, great restaurants, and an inclusive community, they say.
MSU grad launches Muskegon Young Black Professionals to support community
Muskegon native and MSU grad Jocelyn Hines was inspired to launch Muskegon Young Black Professionals after seeing a similar networking organization in Detroit.
The “new” MLK Neighborhood Association – Developing neighborhood block champions
After reemerging in 2020, the Martin Luther King (MLK) Neighborhood Association has continued to strive and move forward through the unexpected COVID-19 pandemic with the goal to continue caring for one other and advocating for the community. Even through the challenges, the faithful few have come together virtually, working on their mission to continue enhancing the overall quality of life in the neighborhood and building on the rich history that has become a known part of the community for over 40 years.
MLK Freedom School – Empowerment through urban agriculture and food justice
Beginning in 2020 in her yard, Alita Kelly’s gardening caught the attention of some of the neighborhood youth, leading to conversations about social and racial justice, as well as the history of food. As a result, “freedom school” was born. Now, in collaboration with the city of Grand Rapids Parks and Recreation Department, the MLK Freedom School has become an expansion of Kelly’s vision for the community.
Boston Soul Café — Helping the community thrive with food for the soul
The Boston Soul Café on Kalamazoo Avenue services the Boston Square community by offering quality breakfast and lunch selections Thursday through Sunday, including an extended soul food dinner menu every Sunday. The Café also specializes in offering ice cream, with a window that is open seasonally. As the business makes its presence known, the common feedback from those who try the Café is that they are happy to have discovered this neighborhood gem.
Maintaining spaces of the past while showing dedication to the community
Serving communities and clients with a common interest in building projects that leave a lasting impact on people and the environment, Isaac V. Norris & Associates, P.C architecture firm has maintained a strong presence in the Boston Square community since it was established in 1993. With a focus on architecture, interior and conceptual design and more, the firm, made up of a team of architects, designers and planners, has been successful in serving the needs and best interests of the people, including opening doors for minority-owned businesses to continue the momentum, such as the South East Market.
