As flooding happens more often, plans emerge to put Nature to work in handling the overflow

Across the Great Lakes basin scientists and planners are pivoting to re-examine alternative drainage systems and to address barriers — including obsolete data — that may stand in the way of innovative, sustainable green designs that could help alleviate flooding.

Lucia Rios
Why commemorating Global Accessibility Awareness Day is important

This global event shines a light on digital access and inclusion for people with disabilities. The idea is that every user deserves a first-rate experience on the web.   

Community Health Workers help people navigate complex health care systems.
Community health workers bring mental health home

Across the state, community mental health agencies enlist CHWs to extend their reach. Washtenaw County Community Mental Health partners with Michigan Community Care (MiCC) in providing CHWs.

Bicycle safety is a Kalamazoo priority – but how to choose the safest route?

Expanded trails and added bike lanes have been part of the push for cyclist safety in the Kalamazoo community. Still, getting from Point A to Point B can pose challenges, especially for those who are traveling with children. Avid cyclist and SW Second Wave Writer Mark Wedel speaks to local road-savvy bicyclists and shares some resources for choosing the safest routes.

Battle Creek is part of a regional initiative to increase access to tech jobs for African Americans

The West Michigan African American Tech Readiness Collaborative is a group of 30 organizations seeking to increase African American representation in high-paying tech jobs, many of which don't require a four-year degree. Ida Byrd-Hill, CEO of Automation Works and initiative founder, says she believes West Michigan could become a major tech innovation hub.

Battle Creek history in the palm of your hand

"Battle Creek has more history per square mile than any other city" in the United States, says often-quoted Mary Butler, who was a well-respected Battle Creek historian. Now residents and visitors can hold some of that history in the palm of their hands by way of a newly-launched app called "Tours of Battle Creek" – just in time for some Memorial Day hometown touring!

Voices of Youth: Clothing challenges for some LGBTQIA+ folx – and one teen’s solution

Nonbinary, trans, and genderfluid people can find it challenging when shopping for clothes. Their shapes and body types may not conform to typical gender shapes and sizes. This Voices of Youth writer explains the difference between 'gender identity' and 'gender expression,' looks at some needs and challenges facing fashion choices for trans and gender-fluid folx, and creates her own trans clothing designs that accommodate differences in body shape and size.

Voices of Youth: Standards for beauty, race, and more inspired teen’s artistic examination

With thoughtfulness and artistry, a Battle Creek teen explores the impact of societal expectations. This multi-media project incorporates both artwork and poetry to consider essential questions related to cultural norms around topics of race, gender, class, beauty standards, and more.

A Farmers Market Food Navigator assists shoppers at the Muskegon Farmers Market.
Michigan Fitness Foundation connects families to farmers and fresh, locally grown food

Michigan Fitness Foundation has been working with Michigan farmers and farmers market managers to reduce barriers to accessing fresh, locally grown fruits and vegetables for families on tight budgets. 

On Point signage
OnPoint’s new community mental health facility increases access to care

Located on a main road, OnPoint’s new facility is easily accessible with a focus on integrated care  

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