After years of planning, Eastside Square condominiums set to open in Kalamazoo

Long-awaited Eastside Square, a mixed-use housing and commercial development on East Main conceived of by residents in partnership with the Kalamazoo County Land Bank, is complete and ready for occupancy. 

The Inclusive Health Care Taskforce hosted an information and resource fair on June 13.
Michigan coalition works to address health disparities for older adults

A broad coalition of Michigan organizations has come together to address health disparities that affect Michigan's rapidly growing population of older adults.

OUCARES day camps create a space where autistic kids don’t feel judged, gain some independence from parents, and interact with peers.
Summertime is “a time of possibilities” and challenges for autistic kids and adults

Summer break creates opportunities for fun and family adventures along with the challenges of changing routines.

Micah 6 is repurposing Webster Elementary, vacant since 2008, into a multi-purpose community center.
Repurposing community assets strengthens communities in Pontiac and Detroit

Michigan communities are repurposing spaces to bring services, create meeting places, and meet the many needs of neighborhood residents.

How public health cares for Michigan’s infants and new parents

Michigan’s state and local public health systems make great efforts to ensure that expectant mothers and infants get the best start possible.

Devin DuMond KCAD, Assistant Professor, Digital Art & Design | Illustration Program
KCAD educator and artist Devin DuMond paints path for public art

Devin DuMond's dual roles as an artist and educator underscore their commitment to nurturing talent while leaving a lasting impact on the community through public art.

Children enjoy a fresh and nutritious meal with local produce, inspired by culinary professionals.
How 10 Cents a Meal brings healthy food to more Michigan kids

The Michigan program supplements the food service programs’ budgets for fresh produce, encouraging a greater menu variety and healthier eating habits for kids statewide. 

Siblings without rivalry: Two sisters reunite by running community-driven Kalamazoo businesses

There's the story. And then there's the story behind the story. Zinta Aistars uncovers a moving tale of how two community-positive entrepreneurs (who happen to be sisters) took very different paths in life — that ultimately converged in their hometown of Kalamazoo.

Breaking her silence to help other victims of sex trafficking in Battle Creek

“We build a rapport and connect them to services they need. It’s not so much about education. It’s about awareness and doing street outreach to connect with victims. As they pursue recovery we want them to know they’re not walking that journey alone,”

Amplifying the arts: Drama Mamas fundraising to make sure K Central stage voices are heard

"Can you hear us NOW?" Drama Mamas (Papas and rising student stars, too) are raising money to purchase microphones to make sure that Kalamazoo Central High School cast members have their stage voices heard.

Our Sponsors

Gilmore Foundation

Our Media Partners

Battle Creek Community Foundation
Enna Foundation
BINDA Foundation
Southwest Journalism Media Collaborative
Southwest Michigan First
Milestone Senior Services
Consumers Energy

Common Ground Is Brewing

Support local stories and receive our signature roast straight to your door when you join at the Standard level (or above).

Drink Better, Read Local

Close the CTA

Don't miss out!

Everything Southwest Michigan, in your inbox every week.

Close the CTA

Already a subscriber? Enter your email to hide this popup in the future.