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Community Development
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Economic Development
Entrepreneurship
Equity
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Places
Allegan
Allegan County
Allendale
Bradley
Burnips
Coopersville
Dorr
Douglas
Fennville
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Glenn
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Hamilton
Holland
Hopkins
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Muskegon County
Muskegon Heights
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Olive Township
Otsego
Ottawa County
Plainwell
Pullman
Saugatuck
Shelbyville
Spring Lake
Wayland
Zeeland
Series
The Lakeshore
Designed in Michigan
Disability Inclusion
Shore Stories
Statewide
Areas of Concern
Block by Block
Bridging the Talent Gap
COVID19
Cyber Security
Disability Inclusion
Early Education Matters
Forestry
Girl Scouts SE Michigan Team Up
Good Food
Greater Lakes
Inside our Outdoors
Invasive Species
MI Mental Health
Michigan Nightlight
Michigan's Agricultural Future
Michigan's State of Health Podcast
Nonprofit Journal Project
Preserving Michigan
State of Health
Stories of Change
Voices of Youth
Yours, Mine, & Ours - Public Health
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Longform
Second Wave - Michigan
Healthy Communities
Ann Arbor nonprofit and Sault Tribe of Chippewa partner to redistribute unused cancer drugs for free
Patrick Dunn
Tuesday, May 27, 2025
Last year the nonprofit YesRx received a grant to work with the tribe over a two-year period, expanding access to expensive drugs that would otherwise go to waste.
Feature Story
Arts and Culture
Saugatuck Township installs first public art with environmental message
The Lakeshore
Sunday, May 25, 2025
A new sculpture at the Blue Star roundabout sparks conversation about environmental responsibility and marks a first for the township.
Feature Story
Economic Development
West Coast’s Community Impact Day expands to unite 3K volunteers across Michigan
The Lakeshore
Thursday, May 22, 2025
Michigan's first statewide Community Impact Day mobilized thousands across 191 sites, showcasing the power of collaboration and local volunteerism.
Feature Story
Economic Development
Firm behind West Michigan landmarks celebrates 80 years with focus on future growth
The Lakeshore
Wednesday, May 21, 2025
West Michigan firm EV Construction marks 80th anniversary with expanded projects, people-centered culture, and national growth in health care and commercial sectors.
Feature Story
Second Wave - Michigan
Healthy Communities
Library social worker connects patrons with resources and a listening ear
Rylee Barnsdale
Tuesday, May 20, 2025
Ypsilanti District Library’s social worker bridges the gap between patrons and local resources they need — everything from housing support to simply listening without judgment.
Feature Story
Arts and Culture
June things to do: Pride events, Miss Michigan, Juneteenth, a Julia Child exhibit, and Father’s Day
Melody Wilson
Tuesday, May 20, 2025
June brings Father’s Day, Miss Michigan, Juneteenth, a Julia Child exhibit, movies, music, summer camps, 5Ks, and theater. Libraries have a lot of free activities, too.
Feature Story
Sustainability
Weatherization program helps seniors stay safe and warm
Shandra Martinez
Tuesday, May 20, 2025
Mary Medendorp, 91, received home upgrades through Allegan County’s Community Action Agency weatherization program, improving energy efficiency and lowering utility costs.
Feature Story
Equity
From stroke survivor to advocate: Muskegon man finds purpose after life-altering health crisis
Shandra Martinez
Tuesday, May 20, 2025
After a life-changing stroke, Carl Ferguson found purpose through Disability Network West Michigan, and now serves on its board to inspire others.
Feature Story
Arts and Culture
Myron Kukla: Surviving yard and garden utensils
Myron Kukla
Tuesday, May 20, 2025
Despite owning enough gear to landscape Mars, one man’s obsession with yard tools grows -- except for gloves. He doesn’t want to get carried away.
Feature Story
Community Development
Gentex powers community impact through nonprofit partnerships
Shandra Martinez
Monday, May 19, 2025
Ottawa County’s largest employer fuels local change through funding, volunteerism, and innovative giving, supporting food access, housing, and safety.
Feature Story
Community Development
Community Impact Day expands, mobilizes volunteers across Michigan
Shandra Martinez
Saturday, May 3, 2025
The West Coast Chamber’s Community Impact Day grows statewide, rallying businesses, nonprofits, and individuals to create lasting community change.
Feature Story
Equity
West Michigan embraces inclusion as autism diagnoses rise
Shandra Martinez
Tuesday, 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 Wilson
Tuesday, 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
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 Martinez
Monday, 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
Economic Development
Business leaders launch plan to power Lakeshore growth
Shandra Martinez
Monday, 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
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 Martinez
Monday, 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
Arts and Culture
Exhibit explores hidden chapter of Holland’s LGBTQ+ history
Shandra Martinez
Monday, 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 Martinez
Saturday, April 26, 2025
Allegan Tech Center equips students with real-world manufacturing skills, addressing industry gaps and opening career paths for hands-on learners.
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Across Our Network
Dwelling Place expands affordable homeownership through Community Land Trust
Source: Rapid Growth
One tree at a time: Teens work to reverse decades of environmental injustice
Source: Soapbox
Back to build bridges: Yarbrough brings homegrown vision to Northside leadership
Source: Southwest Michigan's Second Wave
Cincinnati’s school dental clinics bring relief to thousands
Source: Input Fort Wayne
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