Lock Arms and Unite for Autism: Campaign commits to continued advocacy and support

AAOM’s current fundraising campaign, Lock Arms and Unite for Autism seeks to raise $31,000 to support its services for the one in 31 people diagnosed with autism in Michigan. 

Simranjit Kaur, the author of this story.
Creating safer spaces for domestic violence survivors of marginalized identities

People from non-Asian communities may not always understand the cultural factors that impact domestic violence survivors from South Asian and other marginalized communities. Student writer Simran Kaur digs into the issue for our Voices of Youth series.

Over 200 people attended a recent Town Hall in Kalamazoo with U.S. Senate candidate Abdul El-Sayed.
Voices of Youth: U.S. Senate candidate Abdul El-Sayed sees politics as public service

Democratic U.S. Senate candidate Abdul El-Sayed recently hosted a Town Hall in Kalamazoo. Braylon Youker of Voices of Youth attended the event and spoke with El-Sayed about his vision — a bold and comprehensive plan that weaves together public health policy, climate action, and a push for Medicaid for All.

Making good scents: Kalamazoo’s The Aroma Labs spreads its smell of success across the Midwest

At The Aroma Labs, custom scents become bottled memories. What began in a Kalamazoo kitchen is now a scent-sational business spreading across the Midwest.

Head Start and similar programs build academic skills as well as social and emotional strengths. 
60 years of Head Start. What’s next?

As Head Start marked its 60th anniversary this past May, the program’s legacy stands as more than a historical benchmark. It offers a powerful example of how early learning can drive equity, resilience, and long-term impact. 

Hali Householder
How an Indiana hygienist inspires careers, expands access as an industry ambassador

Hali Householder helps recruit future dental hygienists and promotes whole-body health through a pioneering workforce initiative tackling care shortages.

‘Battle Creek vs. Everybody’ concert bringing everybody together for peace and healing

The "Battle Creek vs. Everybody" concert on July 26 will unite local and regional Black artists to promote healing and peace through music. Organized by R.I.S.E. Corp., the free event is part of a broader effort to combat violence and build community.

Summit Pointe youth staff. CMHs collaborate with schools and families to provide care to kids and teens.
Community mental health advocates take stand against privatization plan

Community Mental Health Association of Michigan (CMHA) advocates against proposed MDHHS plan to privatize community mental health care.

‘Loud and proud’ — celebrating the #DWORD at Disability Network Southwest Michigan with new CEO

July is Disability Pride Month. Disability Network Southwest Michigan welcomes a new CEO, continues its successful #DWORD campaign, and partners with MRC Industries on a new website.

Edison seeks funds to build pocket park that supports neighborhood’s artistic vibe

A new pocket park in the Edison neighborhood would be a place for children to play, adults to relax and socialize, and serve as a gateway marker that tells people they’re entering the vibrant Edison community.

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