NE

Escaping a world of fast food: Grand Rapids schools tackle hunger, food security with gardens

From providing lessons about growing food in urban spaces to giving children fresh produce to take home, school gardens are playing an increasingly vital role in Grand Rapids' community health landscape.

More than a box of books: Little Free Libraries provide a big dose of literacy and community

They may be small, but the Little Free Libraries that are increasingly popping up throughout Grand Rapids are doing big things when it comes to building literacy and community.

UIX: Children help each other heal, share and grow at Ele’s Place

The children who come to Ele's Place are often grieving and emotionally blocked up. At a young age, they might not know how to process the death of a  loved  one or who to turn to for support. But through peer support group programs and new friendships with other children who can relate, Ele's Place becomes a stage for compassion and growth.

Affordable housing, development & more: Commissioner Joe Jones spells out his vision for 2nd Ward

From increasing affordable housing and addressing concerns about development to tackling racial disparities and strengthening LGBTQ protections, Grand Rapids’ newest city commissioner and the first black commissioner to represent the Second Ward, Joe Jones, has big plans to work for a more inclusive and equitable city that treats all of its residents with dignity.

Who will fill the 2nd Ward seat? Candidates tackle development, diversity & more at debate

Whoever takes the office, the community has made clear the importance of housing affordability, diversity, small businesses, and equality in Grand Rapids' 2nd Ward.

Making Grand Rapids more affordable, inclusive and equitable: Our city’s hopes for 2016

As we bid adieu to 2015 and welcome another turn around the sun, Grand Rapidians who are changing and shaping our city share what they hope will happen in 2016.

Traditional pit barbecue finds a home on West River Drive

G-Sync: Making a new list

In 1997 Apple asked us to "Think Different" and it became one of their most discussed ad campaigns. Publisher and Lifestyle Editor Tommy Allen looks to the economic fabric of our city and wonders what we will have in the near future if we "build different" now.

G-Sync: Finding myself a city to live in

Lifestyle Editor and (now) Publisher Tommy Allen reflects on his time at Rapid Growth, finding -- and building -- a city he wants to live in. As he steps into his new role, he reminds us we've come a long way as a city and as a publication, though we've miles to go before we sleep.