West Side reunion films oral histories that bridge generations
Neighbors return to share memories as volunteers film oral histories to preserve Grand Rapids’ West Side community’s lessons for future families.
Neighborhoods of GR
Programmers help communities nurture the power of public art
Murals and other public art are being used to revitalize Grand Rapids and beyond to foster creativity, and empower local artists through innovative programs.
Grand Rapids renews AARP Age-Friendly Community status, creating better living environments for all
The global Age Friendly Communities initiative aspires to improve communities and sustainable economic growth, to make for happier healthier residents of all ages.
Volunteers prepared for emergency after completing city’s free training
Community members are being trained to provide support to their families and neighbors during a disaster until professional first responders are able to respond. The training made possible the launch of the city’s first CERT team.
2080 Union is a peek into the future and solutions found within Community Land Trusts
The Dwelling Place's newest project in Grand Rapids will be the largest Community Land Trust project in the state, ensuring discounted prices that will benefit both the initial as well as future buyers.
Seeds of Promise offers gift card incentive to increase vaccination rates
To improve vaccination rates, Seeds of Promise and Kent County Health Department team up to offer $50 gift cards to the first 20 participants who choose to get the COVID-19 vaccine.
An interview with ICCF CEO Ryan VerWeys on the Franklin Campus Project
The Inner City Christian Federation (ICCF), in partnership with the Madison Church, is now offering affordable housing and other services on the southeast side of Grand Rapids at their recent development at 415 Franklin.
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.
Looking back at 50 years of Modern Hardware
Modern Hardware has been in the Vander Lugt family for two generations and fifty-one years, providing consistent quality service to the Oakdale Neighborhood. A look back at the history of this organization, their changing role in the community, and how they’ve managed to survive over the years.
