Features

Feature Story Herrick District Library's main facility renovations include a new two-story playhouse in its children's department.

Herrick District Library plans renovation celebration

The library will celebrate with staff and the public Thursday, Feb. 20, with food, live music, balloon animals, princesses and more.

Feature Story Mark Witte chats with OnPoint staff: from left,  Andre Pierre, Jr., chief administrative officer; Kelly Dingman, accounting supervisor, and Sarah Lumbert, general accountant.

OnPoint: The many professional roles within mental health care

Michigan’s community mental health agencies need more psychiatrists, psychologists, and master’s level social workers, but they also need bachelor’s level social workers, administrative staff,  peer support specialists, accountants, and direct care workers — roles that require no college degree or degrees in areas not relating directly to mental health. 

Feature Story Renee Thompson with Disability Advocates of Kent County makes adjustments to the new walker being loaned to Ronny Richardson through DAKC's Occupational Therapy Equipment Loan Closet.

Finding belonging through empowerment: One journey with Disability Advocates of Kent County

For Ronny Richardson, Disability Advocates of Kent County's Occupational Therapy Equipment Loan Closet didn't merely provide him with needed medical equipment; they extended personalized support to empower him and help him fully participate in his community. 

Feature Story Sandra March has a new home that will bring financial independence and the ability to enjoy a few simple luxuries.

Affordable housing in Spring Lake brings stability for seniors and families

The $16.4 million project will serve individuals and families earning between 30% and 80% of Ottawa County’s median income. 

Feature Story The Community Foundation of the Holland/Zeeland Area has awarded City on a HIll Ministries a two-year $55,000 grant to help deliver comprehensive mental health care for individuals from low-income households.

Community foundation grants support mental health services

CFHZ distributes $145,000 in grants to local nonprofits working to increase the availability of mental health services 

Feature Story Sarah Leach

Veteran journalist leads nonprofit news network in Ottawa County

Veteran journalist Sarah Leach leads Ottawa News Network, a nonprofit news outlet dedicated to local coverage and civic engagement in Ottawa County.

Feature Story The Henderson family pose with gifts before they are wrapped for the Community Action of Allegan Holiday Giving program.

Paying it forward: A former recipient gives back to support Allegan families

A successful fundraiser provided gifts to families and seniors, inspiring Allegan Pizza Hut’s manager to expand community support year-round.  

Longform Tara Poore, manager of Children’s Services, left, and Megan Ford, manager of Autism and Intellectual

Michigan student loan repayment program helping to tackle mental health workforce shortage

Michigan has long faced a critical shortage of mental health professionals, impacting access to vital care for communities across the state. To address this growing challenge, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) launched the Behavioral Health Now Loan Repayment Program, a strategic initiative aimed at attracting and retaining mental health professionals by alleviating the financial burden of student loans.

Feature Story Phyllis Neal found a way to give back in retirement through the AARP and Disability Network West Michigan.

AARP program helps seniors find purpose and make a difference

After retiring from social work, Phyllis Neal sought a meaningful way to give back. An AARP program led her to Disability Network West Michigan, where she found a renewed sense of purpose and full-time employment.

Feature Story Muralist Chris Garcia paints Waves of Innovation on Lakeshore Advantage's newly built Next Center in downtown Holland.

Holland artist captures ‘'waves of innovation' in Next Center mural

Graffiti artist turned muralist Chris Garcia unveils ‘Waves of Innovation,’ celebrating Holland’s creativity and spirit, at Lakeshore Advantage's Next Center.  

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