NEOMED launches dental program to improve statewide oral health access

NEOMED's new Bitonte College of Dentistry will embed dental students in Ohio communities to improve access and address shortages in rural and urban oral health care.  

High schools huddle up with Police Athletic League to kick off Kalamazoo Youth Football Camp

Kalamazoo’s Youth Football Camp brought together local high schools, the Police Athletic League, and families for a free, skills-based event aimed at teaching kids the fundamentals of football, building community unity, and keeping youth active and engaged.

‘A voice for the children’: Kathleen Moore’s life of advocacy and impact lives on in Battle Creek

Kathleen Moore’s legacy was honored at the first Memorial Family Day, celebrating her deep impact on education and community in Calhoun County. A passionate leader and mentor, she inspired many through years of dedicated service.

From Hamburg to Michigan: How Global Detroit helped a biotech founder stay, work, and build

After immigrating from Germany, Max von Wels co-founded a biotech startup in Michigan. With Global Detroit’s help, he secured a visa and a future in tech.

As a Homeless Navigator works to help the unhoused, he says, ‘I just try to be a good person’

As Brandon Mion works with those facing housing insecurity or who are already homeless he doesn't often bring up his story, but he will if he needs to tell a youth in crisis, "Hey, I've been there. You've got to fight through it because you can get through it."

Never too late to take the plunge: Kalamazoo club teaching adults to swim

The Kalamazoo Masters Swim Club is expanding access to swim education through its grant-supported Adult-Learn-to-Swim program, offering low-cost lessons to help adults gain confidence in the water. The program promotes physical and mental wellness while building a more inclusive and connected swimming community.

Julie Molenda
SBAM Nurture Benefits program enhances compensation for child care providers

The Small Business Association of Michigan Nurture Benefits will expand access to health insurance, life insurance, and retirement savings for Michigan's child care providers.  

Heart of West Michigan United Way Chief Administrative Officer Becki Postma, Kent County Community Action Director Gustavo Perez, and Heart of West Michigan United Way Eviction Prevention Program Manager Alyssa Bryan.
Kent County Eviction Prevention Task Force addresses unmet needs behind evictions

Evictions plummeted during the pandemic and soared again after federal protections ended. That led a coalition of Kent County organizations and individuals to form the Kent County Eviction Prevention Task Force.

Justin Nance at the Van Wert Health Fair.
Ohio hygienist trains future workforce through outreach role

Justin Nance blends teaching and patient care to combat workforce shortages and inspire the next generation of dental hygienists in Ohio.

Bee-yond eighth grade: Lakeview students launch all-ages spelling showdown

Two Lakeview High School students are launching a first-of-its-kind Community Spelling Bee on August 23, open to Calhoun County residents of all ages. Inspired by their own experiences aging out of traditional bees, they aim to create an inclusive event that celebrates a lifelong love of words and learning.

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