PODCAST: Migrant workers, rural Michigan, and rethinking community during COVID

On this week's episode of Michigan's State of Health, we're digging into how migrant workers have embodied rural Michigan's experience with COVID-19 – and how to improve health care for all rural Michiganders in the long run.

Children’s Nature Playscape construction begins in downtown Kalamazoo

Outdoor play is especially important now during the COVID-19 pandemic, and the new play area on Bronson Park in Kalamazoo will offer that opportunity. Construction will continue throughout 2022.

Joblessness, homelessness, and the pandemic didn’t stop Kalamazoo man from starting his own business

Roosevelt Lee-Fleming learned how to keep expensive sneakers in pristine shape as a teen. Now he's turned that skill into a business of his own. The Drip Sneakers restores shoes for sneaker-heads. It also sells unique women’s apparel.  

PODCAST: Reconnecting to behavioral health care in a time of crisis

On this week's episode of Michigan's State of Health, we're digging into  how COVID-19 helped raise awareness of the importance of behavioral health – and how to support Michiganders through the long-term behavioral health issues COVID is likely to create.

Scott Hutchins, school mental health and Medicaid consultant for the Michigan Department of Education Office of Health and Nutrition Services.
Michigan schools adopt new software to expand mental health services

All 56 of the state's ISDs now have access to a software product for managing behavioral health referrals, screenings, treatment plans, and more.

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. 

In Calhoun County training program teaches how to be an ambassador for local tourist spots

Ranks of Certified Tourism Ambassadors for Calhoun County grow with participation by KCC students.

Maawndooganan: New guide will help educators, tribal members learn accurate Native American history

A guide to help Michigan educators better understand the rich history and contributions of Indigenous peoples in Michigan that also explains to tribe members what was left out of their education is being offered for Social Studies classes.

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.

A simple idea gives a Kalamazoo-area man an edge on a tough and complicated year

An idea that had been rolling around Dan Kay's brain for a couple of years came together at a time when all seemed lost. Now his Perfect Paint Edger is getting national attention from all the right people.

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