Community Development

Coverage of community groups bringing about changes, innovations, and solutions in their community.

You’re about to be hearing more from Calhoun County healthcare professionals on COVID-19 frontlines

Calhoun County physicians and nurses who continue to see firsthand the devastating effects of the virus on those who have it and their family members who have watched them die from it are going to be talking about it more than they have so far. 

Latest in Community Development
PODCAST: Migrant workers, rural Michigan, and rethinking community during COVID

On this week's episode of Michigan's State of Health, we're digging into how migrant workers have embodied rural Michigan's experience with COVID-19 – and how to improve health care for all rural Michiganders in the long run.

Scott Hutchins, school mental health and Medicaid consultant for the Michigan Department of Education Office of Health and Nutrition Services.
Michigan schools adopt new software to expand mental health services

All 56 of the state's ISDs now have access to a software product for managing behavioral health referrals, screenings, treatment plans, and more.

Where have all the workers gone? Some Kalamazoo observers offer answers

Workers who have quit their jobs or whose job have quit them talk about why they are not going back. An economist and two other people from Kalamazoo who help entrepreneurs build their businesses give their thoughts on where are all the workers. 

PODCAST: Can COVID help us close gaps in Michigan’s food supply chain?

On this week's episode of Michigan's State of Health, we're digging into how COVID strained Michigan's food system – and how we all can help to strengthen it.

Battle Creek voters approve funding for improvements including creation of an arts academy

When voters were asked for a second time to approve funding that would allow improvements to two schools in the Battle Creek Public School district they said "yes."

Let’s talk: Rural and urban service organizations discuss common concerns around food insecurity

Local food banks that serve both rural and urban constituencies are being hit hard by fluctuations caused by the pandemic. In 2020, donation sources closed, food drives stopped. In 2021, food prices rose, deliveries slowed, food was being diverted to commercial use as restaurants and other businesses opened. Nonprofits' needs continue to be great.

Voices of Youth: Kalamazoo youth offer ideas on what a youth teen center should be

Dozens of young people – including high schoolers, middle schoolers, and even elementary-aged students -- came together this summer to offer their input on what a youth and teen facility in their community should look like.

Voices of Youth Battle Creek: Back to School by Jamiaya Nowling
Voices of Youth: Kalamazoo teens discuss the realities of mental illness and its stigma

Kalamazoo youth ask to be listened to when it comes to mental health. 

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