Philanthropy doesn't mean you have to have a lot of money, says Dr. Grace Lubwama, new CEO and President of the Kalamazoo Community Foundation. Every person can leave a legacy. "But if you have a heart of charity, and care about this community, and want to see this community thrive," she says, "the community foundation is your partner on that journey."
HRI has evaluated many locations in Kalamazoo County where a POD (Place of Dignity) Community could be placed, but so far, none proved feasible. The small modular homes will remain in storage this coming winter as the search continues.
There are three components to BlackWellness Network: Bridging the gap in the level of care provided to African-American; breaking the negative stigma that has traditionally been attached to seeking mental health services, and building stronger Black and Brown communities.
Girls Build Kalamazoo em-powers Black girls by teaching them to use drills, electric saws, sanders, and hand tools. The nonprofit, founded by Twala Lockett-Jones, realtor and author, also introduces principles of design and elements of construction — to build confidence in areas where women are often underrepresented.
A Kalamazoo hairstylist whose early childhood was spent in foster care remembers being bullied for her matted hair. She's launched Dream of Kalamazoo Foundation to change that — especially for youth who live in mixed-race homes where ways of caring for BIPOC hair may be new.
Financing is coming together for Hawthorne Park, a four-story apartment building with ground-level commercial space in Kalamazoo's Edison neighborhood. The building is expected to be 52,523 square feet in total with 2,935 square feet dedicated to commercial use. Those working on the project hope the space will attract entrepreneurial businesses such as a coffee shop or a tobacco store.
Construction work is progressing on six condominium units and 1,800 square feet of commercial space at 1601 E. Main St., spearheaded by the Kalamazoo County Land Bank to help the Eastside Neighborhood develop affordable, mixed-income housing, and more space for new businesses.
Children's author and mother Teresa Baker sought to fill a gap in programming for young people of color. Brown Boy Brown Girl, LLC markets books by BIPOC authors, holds a youth reading/writing program, and so much more.
National Night Out is a Kalamazoo summer tradition, a chance to connect with neighbors, police, and resources. People "need to see the fun and silly, interactive side of law enforcement," says Community Service Officer Dajanick Barlow. "We do a lot of good things in the community." Check out these great photos!
The Family Health Center's Back to School Bash is an event counted on by over 1,500 families each year for well-child visits, immunizations, and school supplies. Plus it's a fun way for families to wrap up the summer.
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