Voices of Youth

Voices of Youth Q&A: Understanding Immigration Concerns in Kalamazoo

Amid rising nationwide immigration enforcement and fear, a Kalamazoo youth interviews El Concilio CEO Adrian Vazquez to explore how local organizations support immigrant families facing detention, uncertainty, and community-wide impacts.

Planet Z: Climate anxiety meets Gen Z resolve

Born into a planet in crisis, Gen Z carries the weight of climate anxiety. Planet Z, our yearlong series created by Gen Z writers, explores what it means to come of age in the climate crisis — and how they’re meeting it with collective resolve.

Voices of Youth Commentary: More teens reverting to vinyl and CDs to protest large streaming services

'The 2026 Music Media Reset’ means teens and others are ditching digital music and opting instead for LPs and CDs.

Voices of Youth: A safe haven for children entering foster care comes to Battle Creek

Battle Creek’s Isaiah 117 House, set to open in March of 2026, seeks to reduce trauma for children entering foster care by providing a safe and supportive place during removal and placement.

Voices of Youth: All aboard the Vicksburg Dinner Train, a rolling effort to feed neighbors in need

A grassroots Facebook group founded by Vicksburg resident and Army veteran Rebecca Walters is combating food insecurity in Kalamazoo County by organizing anonymous, community-driven meal trains for families in crisis.

Youth Reviewer Lab: Kalamazoo Academy of Rock musicians deliver high-voltage show at Bell’s

Check out our youth review of the Kalamazoo Academy of Rock's showcase at Bell’s Backroom.

 Voices of Youth: What A Do Theatre helping the performing arts thrive in Battle Creek

What A Do Theatre is helping keep the performing arts vibrant in Battle Creek by giving young actors (and adults) a welcoming space to build confidence, skills, and community on stage.

Voices of Youth: Inside Kalamazoo’s Youth Mobility program that’s helping teens get to school, activities, and work

After overcoming challenges in the program's rollout, Kalamazoo’s Youth Mobility Fund gives local high school students free access to public transportation, helping teens gain independence and opportunity.

Making radio waves at Harper Creek High School

Students at Harper Creek High are launching WHCX 97.1 FM, a low-power radio station to share school and community news.

Voices of Youth: Spot and Stop program fighting invasive plant species

Invasive plants threaten Michigan’s ecosystems, but the Spot and Stop program in Kalamazoo, Calhoun, and Barry counties empowers residents to fight back through community action and tech tools.

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