Northside pride abides, takes fire in stride, rallies behind fire survivors
Plans for some affordable housing in Kalamazoo's Northside neighborhood went up in smoke. But neighbors rallied around and those plans are still unfolding.
A rich heritage of churches, institutions and history defines the Northside neighborhood for many longtime residents. The stamina, longevity, and a cooperative spirit embodied by the elephant, whose bones may well be buried in the neighborhood, are well-represented on the Northside, through its institutions, people and spirit. Northside is the second neighborhood being covered in the “On the Ground" series which amplifies the voices of Northside Neighborhood residents. Over four months, Second Wave journalists will be embedded in the Northside Neighborhood to explore topics of importance to residents, business owners, and other members of the community. The On the Ground program is made possible by funding from the City of Kalamazoo, LISC, the Fetzer Institute, the Irving S. Gilmore Foundation, United Way of the Battle Creek and Kalamazoo Region, Michigan WORKS!, the Kalamazoo Community Foundation and the Arts Council of Greater Kalamazoo.
Plans for some affordable housing in Kalamazoo's Northside neighborhood went up in smoke. But neighbors rallied around and those plans are still unfolding.
Developers are looking at Kalamazoo's Northside with new appreciation thanks to the tireless work of many, including Mattie Jordan-Woods.
The Financial Opportunity Collaborative at the Douglass Community Center expects to provide an estimated 150 area residents with financial coaching and employment services in its first year alone.
The power of art to offer hope and promote confidence, especially in youth who may be struggling with difficult circumstances is something Ed Genesis believes in.
Over the years, the Douglass Community Association has evolved from a recreation facility for African American troops stationed at Fort Custer to a pillar of the community that serves all in terms of social services, recreation, enrichment and special events.
What was intended to be a short-term solution to a serious problem created long-term problems for residents on Northside streets with certain parking signs when the signs stayed up for two decades.
Helen L. Fox encouraged those she met. Now the music center named for her encourages youngsters to appreciate music and the benefits it brings.
Owner and chef Christen McKinney comes from a long line of cooks, including her mother. She's incorporated her mother's recipes in a blend of Southern, Lousiana, and Midwestern soul food.
S.T.R.E.E.T. afterschool program empowers young people by giving them leadership opportunities and many other experiences to help them grow.
When a pastor and a police officer get out of a cruiser together at a scene to which the police have been called will the interaction go better for all involved? Kalamazoo Department of Public Safety is testing that expectation.
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