Stories

Feature Story Justin Raha owns the downtown Grand Haven bakery, Grand Finale Desserts and Pastries.

Gay business owner shares emotional response to Supreme Court ruling

In the wake of the U.S. Supreme Court decision protecting gay, lesbian, and transgender employees from job discrimination based on sex, Justin Raha explains the personal toll that lack of protection has taken on him.

Feature Story DeWys-team-member

Communication key to helping employees adjust to new COVID-19 normal

Like many employers, DeWys Manufacturing added new communication and cleaning protocols to protect workers' health and well-being in the wake of COVID-19.

Feature Story Amy

Published Together: Amy Bailey on celebrating LGBTQ+ foster and adoptive parents

In this special op ed, Amy Bailey, LMSW, Child Welfare Program Director at Arbor Circle explores the recent history of discrimination against LGBTQ+ foster and adoptive parents, and why she, in contrast, celebrates and supports them in her role at the nonprofit.

Feature Story Customer and employee safety remains a priority for businesses in downtown Holland and Grand Haven.

What businesses need to know about Michigan’s mask mandate

As positive cases of COVID-19 rise, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer expanded the previous recommendation-only directive for use of face masks to a mandate. There are many implications to businesses, their patrons, and employees. Here's what you need to know. 

Feature Story ICCF

Local organizations work to assist residents and improve housing equity during COVID-19

For many, navigating the coronavirus pandemic has created new challenges, including increasing concerns around housing security. Nationwide, renters have raised complaints about discrimination within the housing sector. Local organizations are working to actively provide assistance to community members now and help improve housing equity in the future.

Feature Story Margaret Paxton, Assistant to the Curator of Collections, works at the Community Archives and Research Center.

14 ways grants are making a difference in the Grand Haven area

One grant will be used to digitize Tri-Cities Historical Museum collection into a searchable online database that will provide the community — including local schools — with remote access to the museum’s entire collection.

Longform b2b

How Michigan became a land of trails

"These are investments that are going to pay dividends for generations. You don't get a chance very often to make these things happen."

Innovation News GROW

GRow1000 connects youth to jobs now and careers in the future

City of Grand Rapids' 6-week program enlists businesses and organizations to employ and connect with 1,000 youth ages 15 through 21 from the 49503, 49507, 49508, and 49509 ZIP codes, neighborhoods hit hardest by disproportionate outcomes.

Feature Story Patrick Cisler is executive director of the Lakeshore Nonprofit Alliance.

Why counting young people is critical to success of 2020 census

Young adults don’t always recognize the civic responsibility of filling out a form, but the federal government uses answers to measure population and determine federal funding distribution to local governments.

Feature Story Jennifer Owens is president of Lakeshore Advantage.

Grants up to $20,000 available for small businesses impacted by COVID-19

Lakeshore Advantage will be awarding the grants totaling $3.5 million to more than 160 small businesses in Allegan and Ottawa counties. Applications for the Michigan Small Business Restart Program will be accepted July 15-Aug. 5.

Feature Story Liz Hoffswell is a small business expert.

What small businesses and nonprofits need to know about EIDL funds

As a part of the CARES Act, the EIDL program offers economic support for eligible small businesses and non-profits that have been negatively impacted by COVID-19. Business expert Liz Hoffswell explains what you need to know. 

Feature Story John

Schools, summer, and Grab and Go Meals: A Q&A with GRPS' John Helmholdt

When Governor Whitmer ordered schools closed for the remainder of the school year this spring, GRPS quickly pivoted to continue offering meals to families. As they approach another uncertain school year, Executive Director of Communications and External Affairs John Helmholdt looks back on how the school supported the community in the spring, and how they continue to do so with Grab and Go meals this summer.

Partner Content Students listen to a lesson about MyPlate.

National Kidney Foundation of Michigan introduces nutrition and fitness to classrooms

Presenting a program called PE-Nut in classrooms, the foundation uses a whole-school approach to motivate students, parents, and educators to eat healthier and be physically active. 

Feature Story The Michigan Coalition Against Homelessness honored Gene Ekema, who until recently was homeless himself, as its 2020 Volunteer Champion.

How volunteering helped turn a homeless man’s life around

The Michigan Coalition Against Homelessness honored Gene Ekema, who until recently was homeless himself, as its 2020 Volunteer Champion.

Feature Story Dennis Knight

When staying home is not an option: How Grand Rapids homeless navigate the COVID-19 pandemic

When one is experiencing homelessness, abiding by social distancing guidelines can be extremely difficult, and not having a place to live makes quarantining nearly possible. Local individuals and nonprofits share how COVID-19 is affecting the homeless population, and the unique challenges they seek to overcome.

Feature Story Micah Foster

Published Together: Is Grand Rapids a nice place to live?

"A shift is occurring in our society. We must dismantle and re-engineer new systems that are free of structural racism," says Micah Foster, Executive Director of the Grand Rapids African American Health Institute. In this vulnerable op-ed, Foster shares his personal experiences with racism, and the dialogue necessary to effect lasting change in our communities.

Longform Winona Bynum at Old City Acres farm in Belleville.

Michigan's local food economy rises to meet COVID-19's challenges

Small Michigan farms have already adapted rapidly to address some of the challenges the pandemic has presented, and local food advocates see many opportunities ahead to continue strengthening local food systems.

Development News Flip

Flip Dog Yoga offers a new vision for yoga

Flip Dog Yoga strives for a welcoming, inclusive space that, since COVID-19, has moved online and to Briggs Park.

Partner Content Seniors exercising

Program aims to get adult foster care home residents in Copper Country moving more and eating better

Residents have learned many healthy lessons through a program that offers nutrition and physical activity education and encouragement tailored to the needs of clients with cognitive impairments. 

Feature Story A presenter addresses attendees at LEDA's annual summit.

Foundation grants $105,000 to groups focused on racial equity

The Community Foundation of the Holland/Zeeland Area is giving $105,000 to five organizations and initiatives working to address racial equity and implicit bias.