New series explores efforts to address oral health inequities

A new State of Health series highlights innovative approaches and partnerships tackling systemic barriers to oral health care for underserved populations.

El Concilio celebrates new building, prepares for life under Trump, round two

Correspondent Mark Wedel recently visited El Concilio's new building to learn how much more work the organization can do for the community in the new location. But the sense that the coming years are going to be years of crisis kept intruding on the visit that included a serious discussion of what could be coming under a second Trump administration for the community El Concilio serves.

Albion elders becoming Tech Savvy thanks to Albion College students

 “I feel like us just being present in areas that seniors utilize a lot is making them feel more comfortable. They may be a little wary and feel like we’re going to rush through it. Being empathetic and understanding of their experiences is how we get around this,” 

Step into a Winter Wanderland in downtown Battle Creek

Battle Creek's Winter Wanderland celebrates the season and small businesses at Kellogg Arena on Friday, Dec. 6 and Saturday, Dec. 7 from 4 to 8 p.m.

Voices of Youth: Classroom ‘Cozy Corner’ lets teens take emotional break

Pillows and nooks aren't just for elementary school classrooms. Adolescents also benefit from an inviting, comfy space to take a time out.  One Loy Norris High School teacher created a classroom Cozy Corner — and her students are benefiting. 

Deb Messing oversees Sanilac County Community Mental Health communications efforts to the county's rural residents.
Rural mental health providers overcome stigma, rugged individualism, and distance to provide care

Here's how three Michigan community mental health agencies serving rural populations have found ways to meet their unique needs by developing innovative programs and effective outreach.

Disability Network Southwest Michigan’s Kelly Linton, an ADA specialist and systems advocate working with Wheel the World, takes measurements.
How Wheel the World is changing accessibility in Kalamazoo, one business at a time

Kalamazoo businesses partner with Wheel the World and Disability Network Southwest Michigan to improve accessibility, creating inclusive spaces that welcome everyone.

Finding answers means discussion with those who are unsheltered, shelter representatives suggest

It's getting harder to operate a shelter for the unhoused as their numbers increase. Representatives of two of Kalamazoo's most recognizable shelters tell Housing Matters what might work to bring those numbers down. 

Nonprofits and neighbors provide insight, pride, propel 49507 community development

IFF, a community development financial institution based in Illinois, has invested and shown a commitment to uplifting communities by providing financial support all over the state, including Grand Rapids neighborhoods. Part of IFF’s investment in Grand Rapids has been focused on the 49507 zip code, centered in a collection of neighborhoods southeast of downtown Grand Rapids. They're working with local nonprofits including Amplify GR and LINC UP and neighborhood residents to help propel development.

Advocate uses her experiences to help others with disabilities gain independence through work

Karen Wynne helps individuals with disabilities navigate the Ticket to Work program, empowering them to achieve independence and self-sufficiency.

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