For teens, healthy use of smartphones is matter of balance
Many teens struggle with screen time, but some, like Northview’s Alexis VanZandt, are learning to use smartphones more mindfully.
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!
Vietnamese legacy: A granddaughter claims her place in her family’s story
Jennifer Pham tells the story of her grandfather’s escape from war-torn Vietnam and her family’s enduring resilience across generations.
Vietnamese immigrants’ sacrifices, struggles shape daughter’s identity
A daughter shares her parents’ journey from Vietnam to Grand Rapids and how their sacrifices shaped her identity and community.
Grandson of Vietnamese refugees gratefully accepts his legacy
Ethan Lien writes about his grandparents’ escape from Vietnam, reflecting on their sacrifice, resilience, and the legacy he carries.
‘No dream is too big’: A family’s journey from Vietnam to the U.S.
Amberly Nguyen recounts her grandparents’ journey from war-torn Vietnam to Grand Rapids, revealing a story of faith, sacrifice, and resilience.
Students preserve stories of Vietnam War survivors
East Kentwood students honor their families’ refugee journeys through oral histories about the 50th anniversary of the fall of Saigon.
Educating Teens About Food and the Farm Through New City Neighbors
Learning about nutrition, cooking, and food scarcity helps prepare youth for adult life and deepens their empathy. New City Neighbors, a Grand Rapids-based nonprofit's after-school program, gives area teens a head start and connects them with impactful experiences.
Trust Women: Rapid Growth’s Publisher looks back on women who are making a difference in WM
When equity initiatives face unprecedented backlash, striving for genuine equality transcends mere aspiration.
How the city of Grand Rapids is working to reduce CO2 by more than half by 2030
The city of Grand Rapids plans to cut greenhouse gas emissions by nearly 63% over the next five years and hopes to be carbon-neutral by 2050.
VOICES OF YOUTH: Limited student accessibility hinders learning
Student and writer Mazonnah Holiday explores how a lack of accessibility has made learning a challenge for students with disabilities.
