The state’s new $30 million Michigan Reconnect scholarship program will pay for an associate degree or skills certification for Michigan residents 25 and older.  

Zeeland native Vishal Arora aims to promote a “howdy neighbor” vibe with his projects. He hopes to foster community among residents of his West Michigan HOM Flats complexes.

Businesses use Going Pro Talent Fund grants to “upskill” their employees. This helps companies compete and grow, and prepares workers for in-demand careers.

The instrument was donated by the widow of a religion professor. Hope College sophomore Houston Patton plans to express his gratitude by playing his very best on the horn.  

The Literacy Center of West Michigan is a finalist in the U.S. Department of Education’s Rethink Adult Ed Challenge with the opportunity to win a share of $750,000 for its pre-apprenticeship program. Their proposal creates a pathway to English instruction and skills training for West Michigan Latinas to enter the mechanical, electrical, and plumbing trades.

The Michigan Small Business Survival Grant program is awarding $55 million across the state. The Right Place is administering the program for an 11-county region including Kent County. 

West Michigan Works! is accepting nominations for its 2020 Essential Service Awards. The annual awards recognize frontline workers who go above and beyond their daily responsibilities and display integrity, passion, and commitment.

Approaching 17 years of service to Kent County, County Administrator Wayman Britt has announced his retirement will take place in 2021. He connects to share his insights on what makes West Michigan unique, focus areas throughout his tenure, and what he hopes to see moving forward.

Emiliah Tanya Jo Odinsdottir reflects on the added burden of the COVID-19 pandemic on the poor.