Features

Longform “By working with our community and fostering dialogue about gun safety, we believe we can reduce firearm injuries and build a safer future for all.” Deanna Price

How public health focuses on gun safety and reducing firearm violence

Michigan's public health experts are working to address firearm accidents and violence through community partnerships and education programs. 

Feature Story Rick Sperling and Nafeesah Simonette co-founded Detroit Excellence in Youth Arts

Uplifting youth arts organizations through collective impact and connectionsNonprofit Journal Project

Detroit Excellence in Youth Arts levels-up arts opportunities for young artists by breaking down barriers and building up connections for the arts organizations that serve them.

Feature Story Children are exposed to fresh air, gardening, vegetables and more when gardens become part of early childhood education experiences.

Learning as they grow: Urban gardens as a teaching tool in early childhood educationNonprofit Journal Project

Keep Growing Detroit connects gardening and food sustainability with early childhood learning to create healthy experiences for little ones in Detroit, Hamtramck and Highland Park.  

Longform Nurses like District Health Department #10’s Becky Gossman RN are only one facet of the future public health workforce.

Redefining public health in Michigan: A vision for a post-pandemic future

The Michigan Association for Local Public Health is advocating for a transformative vision of public health, one that accounts for the complexities of today’s diverse communities and the ever-evolving landscape of health needs. 

Feature Story Community mental health agencies from all over the state came to the 2024 rally to show support for their clients and friends and to advocate for a stronger mental health system.

20th 'Walk a Mile in My Shoes' rally promotes public mental health care

Community Mental Health Association of Michigan (CMHA) Walk a Mile in My Shoes Rally congregates advocates from across Michigan to support public behavioral health care. 

Feature Story McKenna Golat and Aiden Burke perform in Arcadia by Tom Stoppard at Enter Stage Right this past April.

St. Clair County in the limelight with impactful theatre

Theatre in the Blue Water Area is rising, drawing people to the region to experience culture, contributing to economic growth, and fostering community. Audiences can see a variety of performances at new and historic locations.

Feature Story Audible pedestrian crosswalk near Palmer Park.

Audible pedestrian crossway installations increase safety and inclusivity across Port Huron

The City of Port Huron recently installed four audible pedestrian crosswalk signals at busy intersections across the city. These signals make it safer for blind pedestrians and those with vision impairments to traverse local roadways more easily.

Feature Story Deer at Port Huron State Game Area.

Changing colors signal hunting season in the Blue Water Area

Within the county, there has been an increase in the interest of hunting among youth. Various groups including the DNR and Four Squares Sportsman Club offer training, practice, and insight to help new and old hunters within the area.

Partner Content Natacha Hayden

Natacha Hayden to join the Community Foundation

The Community Foundation announced that Natacha Hayden, currently the Port Huron DDA Director, will join their team in January 2025 to take a high-profile position within the Foundation.

Feature Story Left to Right: Marquicia Pierce and Kanchan Wankhede.

Smartzone: How a state-run tool is helping businesses reach new technological heights

A new tool based in Port Huron is helping businesses get the support they need to keep growing.

Partner Content Stigma graphic.

Breaking the chains of stigma: Building a healthier and more vibrant community in St. Clair County

Oftentimes, there is a stigma surrounding mental health. SCCCMH tells The Keel how stigma can negatively impact a community and how to create a healthier and judgment-free environment. 

Partner Content Passengers loading on a COA bus in Port Huron.

The unique community partnerships of Blue Water Area Transit

Blue Water Area Transit partners with many agencies in the community to provide transportation services and has received numerous awards.

Feature Story Fathers are important figures in children’s lives

Better fathers mean stronger communitiesNonprofit Journal Project

Stronger fathers mean stronger kids. The Children’s Center in Detroit has a dad-focused program that links fathers to the resources they need and gives them a place to connect, share concerns, and encourage each other to invest more deeply in their children’s lives.

Partner Content Parents indicated that needed services like speech therapy, occupational therapy, and paraprofessional support were inadequate.

Survey activates education advocacy for Michigan children with disabilities

Special Education Experience (SEE) survey results revealed that needed improvements in special education that the state identified in 2014 have not been made.  

Feature Story Champions of Wayne students with Wayne Memorial High School staff and mentors at the Student Achievement Banquet on June 20, 2024

Visionary Wayne Memorial High School program helps students succeed by paying themNonprofit Journal Project

At Wayne Memorial High School, Champions of Wayne pays students $250 per semester to work with mentors to meet personalized goals.

Longform Joe Volpe, program manager at Ferndale's Affirmations LGBTQ+ Community Center.

Mental health takes heavy toll on Michigan's LGBTQ youth

Mental health is a major challenge for Michigan youth in general, but the problem is even greater for the state's LGBTQ youth.

Feature Story Left to right: Treasurer, Cathy Lipa, Pat O’Connor and Corresponding Secretary, Jan Zimmer.

St. Clair Women’s League to host community fundraiser event at Rivercrab restaurant

The St. Clair Women’s League includes residents giving back to their community by raising funds through charity events. Attend their yearly fundraising event at the Rivercrab restaurant on November 7.

Feature Story Andrea Huizar (middle in blue) coaching a volleyball team.

The Athletic Factory continues momentum with a new volleyball program

The Athletic Factory in Port Huron is adding to its roster of programs with its Hitters Elite travel volleyball teams.

Feature Story Goodells County Park

Snap into nature with a smartphone photography workshop

St. Clair County Parks and Recreation Commission is hosting a workshop on how to take professional-looking pictures using a smartphone camera. The event will take place at Goodells County Park on September 28. 

Partner Content Kevin Totty.

In loving memory of Kevin Totty: A beloved community leader, mentor, and friend

Beloved community member, Kevin Totty passed away this month. The Community Foundation highlights his life and work within the Blue Water Area to honor his legacy.