Discover the winners of the 2024 “Top 40 Under 40” awards, celebrating young professionals within Clare, Gladwin, Gratiot, Isabella and Osceola counties, hosted by MMDC and Greater Gratiot Development Inc.

Since 2018, Isabella Bank has held its annual Compassion into Action event, a day-long company-wide community service initiative that allows all employees to volunteer across seven counties in mid-Michigan. The event, which takes place every October on Columbus Day, enables staff to participate in meaningful projects with local nonprofits.

Nearly 450 mid-Michigan fourth graders participated in Project R.E.D. hosted by the Michigan Farm Bureau at Bryant Family Farm. The event featured 13 stations of hands-on learning about agriculture, from farm safety to drone technology. Local volunteers and experts helped students explore farming, livestock, and career opportunities in agriculture, highlighting its importance in daily life.

Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or simply joining for the experience, there are five 5K events in Mt. Pleasant, Alma, and Clare this Fall. Don glow-in-the-dark gear, bring your pup, give back to area organizations, or celebrate Homecoming — discover the region’s racing options.

Dylan Banagis, founder of Life Unplugged in Mt. Pleasant, saw a need for intentional public conversations and offline connections. In 2024, he opened his brick-and-mortar store downtown, offering a welcoming space for people to unwind, connect, and enjoy a positive environment. Discover Banagis’s belief in the growth of downtown, while he strives to make it a vibrant hub of activity and connection, in Epicenter’s Top 40 Under 40 Emerging Leaders series.

Mt. Pleasant Public Schools provided over 82,000 free meals through its Summer Food Service Program, ensuring students and their families had access to nutritious food during the summer months. MPPS remains committed to preventing hunger and supporting students' well-being throughout the school year.