Civics & Nonprofits

Coverage of people and works undertaken by local government and nonprofits that provide innovative solutions for the community.

Dimes lead to big change for underserved youth in the Battle Creek area

A Battle Creek mother and son turn bottle deposits into life-changing sports opportunities for low-income youth.

Latest in Civics & Nonprofits
Neighbors lead the way in Southwest Michigan tornado recovery

The storm spawned four tornadoes across Lower Michigan, ranging from EF-0 to EF-3 intensity.

Lifting the ‘barrier of downpayment funds’: Calhoun County unveils Home Ownership Assistance Program

Calhoun County is investing $3 million in foreclosure funds through a partnership with Independent Bank to generate down payment and closing cost assistance for eligible homebuyers, turning past foreclosures into new opportunities for homeownership.

As visa barriers tighten, a Battle Creek violist’s international career hangs in the balance

As national debates over visa access intensify, the career of Mexican-born violist Sarai Aboites-Nunez, Operations Manager of Battle Creek's Music Center, highlights how U.S. immigration policy affects internationally trained artists who contribute to American cultural life.

Advocates work with Kalamazoo church to shelter the unhoused from sub-freezing temperatures

As extreme cold hit Kalamazoo, St. Luke's Episcopal Church and local advocates opened an emergency warming shelter, underscoring both community compassion and gaps in services for the unhoused.

Ford’s $1.3M gift empowers three Calhoun County community foundations to fuel local projects

Ford Motor Co. is investing $1.3 million in a collaborative effort with three Calhoun County community foundations to deliver immediate impact and long-term support across the region.

It’s scholarship season at the Battle Creek Community Foundation

Battle Creek Community Foundation scholarships help local students like Nylayiaha Smith afford college and inspire them to give back to their community.

New city manager aims to tackle Battle Creek’s challenges — and harness its assets

Three months into her role, Amanda Zimmerlin discusses how her Ohio background prepared her to tackle Battle Creek’s housing, homelessness, and childcare challenges while championing the city’s assets.

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