Cassopolis: A village reimagined
A rural community in southwestern Michigan looks for a brighter future, tapping grants and other monies to revamp its downtown and add new amenities, including a beach, a pier and a skate park.
Latest ALICE report suggests veterans’ assistance is helping but work still needs to be done
A recently released report from the Michigan Association of United Ways (MAUW) and its research partner, United For ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) veterans' needs outstrip available resources, especially those struggling financially.
Home Start Initiative believes its approaches to affordable housing will help project move forward
Services from financial education to emotional health and daycare are part of the package that is Playgrown Home Start, a community of 10 homes near what was once a tent encampment of the unhoused. The project is seeking funding and the project leader says: "I have faith in our grantors, I have faith, I have so much faith in this project and our team."
Milestone Senior Services helps elders stay in homes — one furnace, handrail, and ramp at a time
Milestone Senior Services administers several programs and services to help seniors and the disabled live independently, including home repairs and the installation of safety features. “They really care,” one senior says. “A lot of people might come in and do something. But these people really care.”
No-cost mental health helps for those seeking a holistic approach
A variety of holistic mental health options exist that are free or nearly so. Here is a roundup of research-proven ideas to increase well-being.
Two Southwest Michigan parks awarded grants for big upgrades
The Lexington Green Park Improvement Project in Portage and the Dr. Lawless International Dark Sky Park in Cass are two projects in Southwest Michigan selected to receive federal Land and Water Conservation Fund grants.
Apples of John Claridge’s eyes: Marcellus heirloom apple farm boasts 80 varieties
For a living taste of history, visit Marcellus’ Spirit Springs Farm started by the late John Claridge. The 70-year-old orchard features over 80 heirloom apple varieties. A new generation of the family is keeping the spirit alive in the orchard. And those who tour the land appreciate its unique offerings.
Voices of Youth: Why teens should care about climate change, and what’s being done locally
Climate change is a growing concern for both youth and adults. Our Voices of Youth correspondent examines what Kalamazoo is doing to protect the environment.
Ayudas a la salud mental sin costo para quienes buscan un enfoque holístico
Los enfoques holísticos de la salud mental y el bienestar han ganado popularidad en la cultura occidental y atraen a aquellos que buscan un enfoque diferente para sentirse mejor.
JBS Hometown Strong program gives $1 million to Kalamazoo area’s Boys & Girls Clubs for new building
The $1 million gift, part of the JBS Hometown Strong program, nudges Boys & Girls Clubs close to its $9 million goal to build a facility that will replace what was the Lake Street unit and headquarters in Kalamazoo.
