Edward Lofton and his mother Joanna Lofton, community resource specialist at the Autism Alliance of Michigan. Edward lives with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and, like many people with ASD, has faced unique challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Michigan organizations help people living with autism reduce risks of COVID-19

COVID-19 has inflicted a disproportionate burden on many groups, but one of the least recognized is people living with autism spectrum disorder.

Emergency Management Director has seen Calhoun County through oil spill, bad weather, and COVID-19

The world, nation, and Calhoun County have seen many changes since Durk Dunham became director of Calhoun County’s Emergency Management Department 14 years ago, Think 9-11's aftermath and COVID-19 and you have an idea of the scope of some of the changes he and his volunteer department have dealt with.

Voices of Youth: Ella Johnson finds many ways to help the homeless

Food, toiletries, and warm blankets are all part of what Ella Johnson and her family distribute to those homeless individuals they find. 

Top Ten: A quick look back at readers’ favorite stories of 2021

As we move into 2022 we take on a fleeting look back at 2021. We hope you will find your favorite stories among our Top Ten best-read stories of the year that was. Get a behind the scenes snippet from the reporters who brought these stories to life.

With COVID cases peaking, Michigan seeks solutions to health care worker shortage

Michigan health care leaders are advocating for investments to support staffing needs in hospitals, nursing facilities, emergency medical services, and workforce training programs.

A new assessment conducted by the Gratiot-Isabella Regional Education Service District considered physical activity assets in Clare, such as this playscape at Shamrock Park.
Gratiot-Isabella Regional Education Service District promotes active, healthy communities

Using Michigan Fitness Foundation’s Promoting Active Communities assessment and tools, GIRESD staff are on their way to having a better understanding of the barriers to active living and finding solutions to overcome those barriers.

The EUPISD LifeSPAN team collaborated with other area organizations to host a Color Run/Walk last August.
SNAP-Ed Eastern U.P. LifeSPAN team is helping to get the U.P. active

Eastern Upper Peninsula Intermediate School District staff have spearheaded numerous initiatives through the LifeSPAN program, which gives families the tools to lead all-around healthier lives. 

Northside Association in Kalamazoo sets plans to build houses and help residents buy them

The Northside Association for Community Development is working to build 21 new houses in the neighborhood and recently hosted the first in what will be a series of meetings to allow people to ask questions and learn what they need to know to buy one of the new houses.

House shows are back and the Kalamazoo music scene takes seriously the need to keep them safe

In garages and living rooms of the Kalamazoo house music scene, the bands and their fans have returned. Here's how they are keeping things safe as the pandemic goes on.

Local retailers in Battle Creek ready to compete with in-person services and online sales

When Christmas shopping means shopping local the community benefits in many ways. Local retailers tell what local shoppers mean to them.

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