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.
Kalamazoo’s Youth Football Camp brought together local high schools, the Police Athletic League, and families for a free, skills-based event aimed at teaching kids the fundamentals of football, building community unity, and keeping youth active and engaged.
Kathleen Moore’s legacy was honored at the first Memorial Family Day, celebrating her deep impact on education and community in Calhoun County. A passionate leader and mentor, she inspired many through years of dedicated service.
The Kalamazoo Masters Swim Club is expanding access to swim education through its grant-supported Adult-Learn-to-Swim program, offering low-cost lessons to help adults gain confidence in the water. The program promotes physical and mental wellness while building a more inclusive and connected swimming community.
Two Lakeview High School students are launching a first-of-its-kind Community Spelling Bee on August 23, open to Calhoun County residents of all ages. Inspired by their own experiences aging out of traditional bees, they aim to create an inclusive event that celebrates a lifelong love of words and learning.
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.
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.
This September, Kalamazoo’s first Mural Festival will turn six downtown walls into vibrant public art celebrating the city’s creativity and community. Organized by the Arts Council, the event includes live music, artist talks, and free trolley tours.
“Permanent supportive housing is not a homeless shelter, not a treatment facility, not a rehab, or halfway house. Nor is it public housing or rent-free. It is indeed permanent, full-time leaseholders, and they sign Good Neighbor agreements."
“Kick Back and Breathe,” a free monthly event by the Institute of Public Scholarship, explores how air pollution impacts Black and Brown communities. Using data from local air monitors, the series empowers residents to understand their air and push for cleaner, healthier neighborhoods.
"A bike is a metaphor for freedom. When you’re a kid, one of the first things you get is a bike, and you learn how to ride. It opens up the world, gives you access to opportunities, and exposes you to new people and places. A bike is a simple but perfect machine."
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