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!

Lindsay Patton (left) and Shanika Carter teach a Voices of Youth 2023 cohort at the Kent County ISD.

After a successful launch, Rapid Growth continues Voices of Youth program

So many issues affect today's youth. Rapid Growth's Voices of Youth helps them put that into words. After the programs first year, Rapid Growth hopes to build on its success.

The Grand Rapids Public Library is a mainstay on the city's northeast side, but the 150-year-old institution now has many branches in neighborhoods around the city.
Grand Rapids Public Library — not just by the books

City High Middle School freshman Luke Fann reflects on the 150-year history of Grand Rapids Public Library and its future in the latest Voices of Youth article.

Mazonnah Holiday's homeschooling is flexible and allows her time for other activities.
Voices of Youth: Homeschooling’s rise and how it can help students

Grand Rapids-area student Mazonnah Holiday shares how homeschooling has helped her in the latest story from Voices of Youth.

Published Together: 5 stories that resonate with me and celebrate the power of local voices

 Publisher Tommy Allen looks back on stories that still hit home.

Rapid Growth Publisher Tommy Allen
Focus Area: Series stories that propagate joy and inspiration within our community

Publisher Tommy Allen shares a collection of series stories that propagate joy within our community.

Photo by Tommy Allen
Grand Rapids teens become journalists through Voices of Youth program

Teenagers in the greater Grand Rapids area are using their voices to address the issues that affect them and their peers. 

Courtesy Kayla Parks
When it comes to fighting for LGBTQ+ rights, Michigan is a leader

As LGTBQ+ legislation changes, lives are continuously affected. Two teens share their insights as members of the LGTBQ+ community, including challenges, advocacy and recent legal changes.

Our Kent County school’s need for improved student understanding

High school students Addison Weed and Elsie Ries have noticed that our school could reap the benefits of greater diversification and inclusive dialogue. They told their story as part of the Voices of Youth project.

Courtesy of Be Smart Facebook page
What’s being done? The effects of gun violence on Grand Rapidians

This article is part of Rapid Growth's Voices of Youth series, which features content created by Kent County youth in partnership with Rapid Growth staff mentors, as well as feature stories by adult writers that examine issues of importance to local youth. In this installment, Annette G. Vazquez and Vanely Bastardo Guzman examine Grand Rapids’ increasing gun violence.

Lack of staff in Michigan hospitals: What happened and why people are leaving

Businesses, health systems and universities are asking lawmakers to fix the health care crisis to avoid more reduction of hospital beds and health services and care.

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