Stories

Feature Story StopMotionAnimationWorkshop

Free Media Literacy Summit aims to increase community knowledge and experiences

The inaugural Media Literacy Summit, hosted by GRTV of the Grand Rapids Community Media Center and the Grand Rapids Public Library, is a free event providing hands-on experiences, panel discussions, and workshops led by renowned professionals in media literacy. There will be four immersive workshops educating attendees about the media creation process. The summit takes place on at the Wealthy Theatre 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday, May 13.

Longform Dale Robertson, president and CEO, Grand Rapids Public Museum

Leaders overcoming stigma: Community mental health is for everyone.Community mental health is for everyone.

Despite an increased awareness around symptoms and treatment options, a lot of stigma around seeking mental health care still exists. For leaders and professionals in esteemed positions and industries, this stigma can be even more difficult to overcome. 

Feature Story Wheelchair basketball is a highly physical sport, with players often bumping into one another and sometimes flipping their chairs. Yet the players love the thrill of getting a shot at the basket and scoring points.

Mary Free Bed women’s wheelchair basketball team competes nationally

Basketball played a big part in Jeni Rummelt's childhood. Her return to that old love marked the beginning of an exciting new chapter in life as an adult wheelchair user, playing on a highly competitive all-women's sports team.

Longform MiGen Executive Director Angela Gabridge and Program Director Kat Mehrer.

Detroit nonprofit serving LGBTQ+ older adults adopts new name reflecting statewide focus

The Ferndale-based nonprofit MiGen is working to create safer, healthier communities for LGBTQ+ older adults across Michigan.

Feature Story VOYASLStory4

Increasing entertainment accessibility for the hard-of-hearing community

Northview High School Senior Evan Arnold currently studies American Sign Language and is asking big questions: "Why is it necessary to find an alternate source in order to provide equal access during a performance that is intended for everyone? And further, how can our Grand Rapids community work to continue bridging communication gaps during performances?"

Partner Content Bike racks support active living in Grand Traverse County.

Active communities are healthier communities

Michigan Fitness Foundation’s Promoting Active Communities assessment offers a set of online tools to help Michigan communities create safe places for people to be active.

Feature Story johnballzoobuilding6

Furthering its commitment and taking on a new sustainability challenge

Through their sustainability practices, educational opportunities, support of far-reaching conservation efforts and their participation in Species Survival Plans, John Ball Zoo seeks to not only protect the wildlife under its care but also to conserve the environment. Slated to open later this year, the new pygmy hippo habitat and multispecies exhibit at the Zoo seeks to attain Living Building Challenge Petal certification.

Feature Story kdlliteracy3

Providing programs and resources to help families reach early literacy goals

First Steps Kent is an early literacy initiative that aims to ensure children have exposure to books at a young age. Raising a child takes a village and many local organizations, including the Kent District Library, provide helpful resources in line with the initiative.

Feature Story A HUD grant is funding home accessibility assessments and modifications for 150 homeowners in rural West Michigan counties. (DAKC)

Disability Advocates Kent County helps low-income seniors age in place

Disability Advocates Kent County is using a $975,000, 3-year HUD grant to fund home accessibility assessments and modifications for 150 homeowners in rural West Michigan counties.

Feature Story Lucia Rios holds State of Michigan Special Tribute signed by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer and other state officials. (Shandra Martinez)

Disability Inclusion Series Editor Lucia Rios receives 2023 Ability Award

Lucia Rios is honored for her decades of work educating people about accessibility issues and mentoring the next generation of disability advocates.

Feature Story wimee2

Wimee the Robot: A Grand Rapids character gaining a national audience

Wimee’s Words, a popular PBS children’s show that reaches 30 million homes around the country, is continuing to grow and engage a larger audience.

Special Report AARP Michigan volunteer Howard Pizzo, AARP Michigan Communications Manager Mark Hornbeck, and AARP Michigan State Director Paula Cunningham on the Lansing River Trail.

Special report: Michigan prepares for a rapidly aging population by becoming more "age-friendly"

We took a look at several Michigan initiatives that are working to create new age-friendly support systems as the state ages.

Feature Story Grand Haven Township Fire/Rescue Chief Shawn Schrader speaks to Michigan Justice Richard Bernstein. (Shandra Martinez)

Justice Bernstein brings a perspective of inclusion to court

Richard Bernstein believes one of the most important attributes he brings to his role as a justice on Michigan’s highest court is the perspective of someone navigating life with a disability. 

Feature Story Herrick District Library's main branch near downtown Holland.

How one library is making a renovation plan inclusive

As Herrick District Library prepares for a major renovation, the staff is working to make sure people with disabilities are part of the planning process to create an inclusive space

Development News mindset2

Mindset Meals: “Love is the most important ingredient.”

New experiences with food, mental health and physical health inspired Eric Freeman to found Mindset Meals, a start-up company that will soon provide nourishing, ready-to-eat meals to West Michigan businesses, schools and individuals experiencing food insecurity.  

Longform Dr. Lynn Todman and Dr. Willie Lawrence at the Center for Better Health and Wellness.

Center for Better Health and Wellness tackles health disparities beyond COVID in Benton Harbor

Established to address COVID-19-related health disparities, the center has pivoted to address additional unique health needs in predominantly Black Benton Harbor.

Feature Story lorenjohnson1

Loren Johnson: Nothing but grateful for her moment

It has been a time of celebration for artist Loren Johnson. The Grand Rapids musician and photographer recently opened a photography studio and released her first album. Both endeavors have been a year in the making and have been a collaboration with other local artists.

Feature Story April is Autism Awareness and Acceptance Month

Autism Alliance of Michigan is the trusted resource for the autism community

The Autism Alliance of Michigan (AAoM) is here to help ensure Michiganders with autism reach their greatest potential.

Feature Story AAoM Autism Hero Walk

Community mental health in action: 5K stomps out stigma

Mental Health Foundation of West Michigan 5K invites those who walk in unity with loved ones who have died by suicide, those who have their own mental health battles, and those who simply want to raise awareness. Participants include those who walk in unity with loved ones who have died by suicide, those who have their own mental health battles, and those who simply want to raise awareness.  

Development News JenniferBurns

House calls on Black businesses and entrepreneurs prescribe remedies for success

The Grand Rapids Area Black Businesses has met with more than 20 entrepreneurs and small businesses ranging from retail, food, and e-commerce to health and fitness businesses.