Lalonie Willhite founded Dream of Kalamazoo Foundation to make sure kids growing up in foster homes didn’t encounter struggles with self esteem that comes with foster and adoptive parents not knowing how to care for all textures of hair. The Dream of Kalamazoo Foundation also is an example of how a nonprofit contributes to economic growth right here in the community while fulfilling its core mission of giving back.

There are community partners willing to go the extra mile to support families with young children, say those who recently enjoyed such an event. It was all about haircuts and reading at Rob’s Barbershop in the Vine on a Friday afternoon.

Homeownership has long been an essential part of The American Dream. In the post-World War II housing boom, that often meant three- or four-bedroom homes on large lots in neighborhoods located a car drive away from commercial development. It’s time to rethink that paradigm, many say.