Author

Shandra Martinez

Shandra Martinez's Latest Articles

LaShawnda Bates, wearing a yellow dress, stands in front of a table with health brochures on it.
Bronson Cancer Care Equity Project breaks down barriers to health care

Bronson’s Cancer Care Equity project addresses health disparities through community partnerships, improving accessibility, communication, and inclusivity in cancer care.

Meresa Salisbury attends the Baldwin Senior Expo earlier this year.
Disability Network West Michigan’s new Lake County office brings support to rural residents

Disability Network West Michigan’s Lake County office empowers individuals with disabilities, providing essential resources and personalized support while fostering independence.

New series explores efforts to address oral health inequities

A new State of Health series highlights innovative approaches and partnerships tackling systemic barriers to oral health care for underserved populations.

Disability Network Southwest Michigan’s Kelly Linton, an ADA specialist and systems advocate working with Wheel the World, takes measurements.
How Wheel the World is changing accessibility in Kalamazoo, one business at a time

Kalamazoo businesses partner with Wheel the World and Disability Network Southwest Michigan to improve accessibility, creating inclusive spaces that welcome everyone.

Advocate uses her experiences to help others with disabilities gain independence through work

Karen Wynne helps individuals with disabilities navigate the Ticket to Work program, empowering them to achieve independence and self-sufficiency.

Zaria McCroy speaks.
Disability Network honors Southwest Michigan advocates of independence, accessibility

Two Southwest Michigan residents and an organization were honored by the Disability Network Southwest Michigan for their work to advance independence and accessibility.”

Disability Network West Michigan (DNWM) is celebrating its 25th anniversary with a block party.
Disability Network West Michigan marks 25 years of advocacy and service

DNWM is celebrating the milestone with a block party outside its Muskegon offices on Sept. 27 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. The event will feature food, music, and a tour of its facility.

Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility (DEIA) training for staff at Muskegon Luge and Adventure Sports Park. Pictured from left to right: Jeff VanDyke and Brad Hastings.
Accessibility champion recognized for impact in Muskegon community

Brad Hastings, advocacy and outreach coordinator at Disability Network West Michigan, is honored with Muskegon’s Future 15 Award for his work in disability advocacy and improving community accessibility.

A high jumper competes in the 2024 Hartford Nationals.
West Michigan to Host 2025 and 2026 National Adaptive Sports Championship

Grand Rapids will host the 2025 and 2026 Hartford Nationals, showcasing adaptive athletes and highlighting the city’s commitment to accessibility, inclusivity, and world-class sporting events.

West Michigan events celebrate 34th anniversary of Americans with Disabilities Act

The  Caravan for Disability Freedom and Justice 2024 will stop in Muskegon and Kalamazoo to celebrate the 34th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act. 

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