Community Development

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

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. 

Latest in Community Development
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. 

Calhoun County gets out money to halt evictions, seeks those who don’t know funds are available

As other communities struggle with how to help those facing eviction, Calhoun County and Battle Creek agencies and groups are finding ways to assist those in danger of losing their homes. 

Apartment and commercial development hopes to open by fall in Kalamazoo’s Stuart Neighborhood

Residents of the Stuart Neighborhood have said they want more business within walking distance and it is coming with the Westgate Commons development going up at 615 W. Kalamazoo Ave. 

The Blog: A traditional Republican’s reaction to the Trump insurrection

Kevin McCarthy is an active, moderate Republican. He says, "All my fears of how Trump and his hardcore followers would endanger the country came to fruition on Jan. 6, 2021."

Our Sponsors

Gilmore Foundation

Our Media Partners

Battle Creek Community Foundation
Enna Foundation
BINDA Foundation
Southwest Journalism Media Collaborative
Southwest Michigan First
Milestone Senior Services
Consumers Energy

We want to know what's on your mind.

Close the CTA

Don't miss out!

Everything Southwest Michigan, in your inbox every week.

Close the CTA

Already a subscriber? Enter your email to hide this popup in the future.