Equity

West Michigan embraces inclusion as autism diagnoses rise

Shandra MartinezTuesday, April 29, 2025

As autism diagnoses climb, families and organizations like Disability Network West Michigan work to empower young adults entering the workforce.

Feature Story

Arts and Culture

May things to do: Festivals, fundraisers, Memorial Day, an Anne Frank exhibit — and don’t forget Mom

Melody WilsonTuesday, April 29, 2025

Tulip Time in Holland and the Grand Haven’s Kite Festival return, as does the Prom with a Purpose in Spring Lake and several Memorial Day events across the lakeshore.

Feature Story

Chasity Fedon (left) participated in the Summer Youth Career Readiness Program last summer and said it gave her the tools and confidence to earn her first paycheck. Pictured with her manager her manager, Alysa Hoy, she is still employed there.

Economic Development

Summer career program expands to serve more youth

The Lakeshore Tuesday, April 29, 2025

The West Michigan Works! six-week paid summer program offers teens across seven counties real-world job experience, skills training, and career exploration. Applications are open now through May 5.

Longform

Indiana nonprofit’s oral health program reaches 39 states

Shandra MartinezMonday, April 28, 2025

McMillen Health’s Brush program equips families and educators with easy-to-understand oral health tools, transforming access in underserved communities.

Feature Story

Jennifer Owens, President, Lakeshore Advantage and Jeff Stutz, CFO, MillerKnoll

Economic Development

Business leaders launch plan to power Lakeshore growth

Shandra MartinezMonday, April 28, 2025

Lakeshore Advantage unveils a five-year plan to strengthen West Michigan’s economy by growing talent, supporting businesses, and boosting startups.

Feature Story

During a recent Grand Rapids Chamber of Commerce event, Comcast kicked off its latest round of RISE grants and support packages to help 100 Grand Rapids and Muskegon small businesses grow, innovate, and thrive.

Economic Development

Comcast RISE to provide 100 grants to GR, Muskegon small businesses

The Lakeshore Monday, April 28, 2025

Comcast RISE offers grants and support packages to help 100 Grand Rapids and Muskegon small businesses grow, innovate, and thrive.

Feature Story

Community Development

Allegan Prosecutor’s Office goes fully digital, saves resources

Shandra MartinezMonday, April 28, 2025

The new system streamlines justice processes by managing digital case files, coordinating with law enforcement, and ensuring secure, efficient prosecutorial operations.

Feature Story

"Waves of Pride: The Impact of Out on the Lakeshore" is a new exhibit spotlighting the city’s LGBTQ+ community and the grassroots group that has championed visibility, inclusion, and equality for over a decade.

Arts and Culture

Exhibit explores hidden chapter of Holland’s LGBTQ+ history

The LakeshoreMonday, April 28, 2025

"Waves of Pride: The Impact of Out on the Lakeshore" is a new exhibit spotlighting the city’s LGBTQ+ community and the grassroots group that has championed visibility, inclusion, and equality for over a decade.

Feature Story

Kids and Education

Career tech program tackles skilled trades labor shortage

Shandra MartinezSaturday, April 26, 2025

Allegan Tech Center equips students with real-world manufacturing skills, addressing industry gaps and opening career paths for hands-on learners.

Longform

Second Wave - MichiganHealthy Communities

Indiana nonprofit’s oral health program reaches 39 states

Shandra MartinezFriday, April 25, 2025

McMillen Health’s Brush program equips families and educators with easy-to-understand oral health tools, transforming access in underserved communities.

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