On the Ground helps to tell the stories of the people, projects, and innovations that are creating “what’s next” for Southwest Michigan.
Published by Southwest Michigan Second Wave, the mission of On the Ground is to connect readers to the area's most visionary and active people, businesses, and organizations — elevating a wide diversity of voices and contributing to the community conversation about what it means to call Southwest Michigan home.
Our journalists engage residents through regular listening sessions, events, and conversations to build trusted relationships that shape the community’s unique, solutions-oriented stories. We want to know what you think because what you think matters.
The On the Ground Battle Creek team includes Project Editor Jane Parikh and Photographer John Grap. The On the Ground Kalamazoo team includes Project Editor Al Jones and Photographer Fran Dwight. The Managing Editor for both series is Theresa Coty O'Neil.
HAVE A STORY IDEA?
We’re always looking for story content. Send your Battle Creek or Calhoun County ideas to otgreporter18@gmail.com. Send your Kalamazoo or Kalamazoo County ideas to editor@swmichigan.secondwavemedia.com.
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.
One comes from the kitchen at home, a second from BC Cargo. Two businesses are seeing just how much they can grow in new small business incubator.
A toy drive for children at Parkway Manor offers a way to spread Christmas joy.
From translation on the job and in the community to programs to assist youngsters in school and advocacy in a variety of areas, Voces supports a growing segment of Battle Creek's population.
Helen L. Fox encouraged those she met. Now the music center named for her encourages youngsters to appreciate music and the benefits it brings.
One family working together to share their culture and serve their community can spark a change and draw a crowd.
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.
A sculpture of a young woman holding a model of the earth aloft will be inspiring new addition to Battle Creek's North Side gateway neighborhood.
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.
32Social will be a coffee shop where people can come together and where food will slowly but surely be on the menu.
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