West Michigan students spread kindness by joining Positive Affirmations initiative
A group of Grand Rapids students launches an initiative promoting kindness, combating bullying, and proposing Positive Affirmations National Day in schools.
Voices of Youth
Voices of Youth is a paid journalism opportunity that aims to lift youth voices focused on community issues and solutions. This free program consists of solutions journalism workshops and one-on-one mentorship with experts in the areas of writing, art, photography and social media. The goal of the program is for all participants to publish their own original piece of content in our publication while gaining real world knowledge and experience in the important discipline of journalism. Youth are encouraged to use their content for college and job applications. Check back here for more information and to sign up for the next cohort. Please note: Space is limited per cohort so we encourage early sign up to guarantee a spot!
5 things you may not know about Blandford School in Grand Rapids
Flora Duckworth-Guerra, a sixth-grader, uses five original illustrations to show what happens at Blandford. She highlights the songs, chores, doodles, “magic spots,” and confidence-building moments that make this year-long program unique compared to other school experiences in Grand Rapids.
Voices of Youth: Theater offers kids skills beyond the stage
Our Voices of Youth narrative shows how theater fosters empathy, confidence, and belonging. City High Middle School student Ineke Petroelje explains why this art remains a deeply human experience.
Workforce development program for young adults nurtures confidence, direction, purpose
West Michigan Works!’ Ascend youth program helps participants build confidence, explore careers, and gain essential workplace skills.
Mosaic Film Experience turns students into skilled storytellers
Grand Rapids-based film program helps youth build confidence, industry connections, and storytelling skills, guiding youths like first-generation student Nuha Hussein toward a creative future.
Sixth grader featured on Kelly Clarkson Show inspires community cleanup
Zoey Tice, a sixth-grader from Muskegon who is passionate about picking up trash, recently impressed Kelly Clarkson, who is sending her to Jamaica to help with an environmental project.
Student preserves Hispanic business history to empower future generations
GVSU student Galilea Bahena researches 100 years of Hispanic businesses in West Michigan for a Grand Rapids museum exhibit, ensuring community stories endure.
Voices of Youth: The uphill battle of smalltown Pride
Hastings, Mich., held its second annual Pride Festival, uniting LGBTQIA+ residents and allies in a powerful show of rural visibility despite local backlash. The event drew hundreds and marked growing support for queer youth in the small, traditionally conservative town.
Flora’s illustrated guide to managing invasive species
As part of Rapid Growth’s Voices of Youth series, Flora Duckworth-Guerra created a two-part visual guide exploring six invasive species and how to combat them. Part one spotlights the butterfly bush, sea lamprey, and giant koi.
Flora’s animated guide to fighting invasive species
As part of Rapid Growth's Voices of Youth series, Flora Duckworth-Guerra created a two-part visual guide exploring six invasive species and how to combat them. Part two focuses on the spotted lanternfly, garlic mustard, and the stink bug.
