Author

Shandra Martinez

Shandra's Latest Articles

Alpena builds accessibility roadmap by listening first, improving public spaces for everyone

Alpena's accessibility assessment helps prioritize affordable improvements, showing small communities how resident input can guide inclusive planning and investment.

Partnerships help students with disabilities prepare for careers while building confidence and independence

Disability Network West Michigan partners with schools and colleges to remove barriers and help students progress toward employment and independent living.

Traverse City recognizes how accessibility can build tourism

Northern Michigan organizations partner to improve accessibility, helping more travelers enjoy Traverse City while building a more welcoming tourism destination.

Designer’s accessibility sticker encourages communities to rethink who automatic doors serve

Grand Rapids designer Aidan Van Doren created an accessibility sticker showing automatic doors benefit parents, workers, older adults, and people with disabilities.

Kids’ Food Basket, schools join to address rural hunger

Partnerships between rural schools, Kids’ Food Basket identify food insecurity, connect families with support, and improve nutrition.

Jennifer Owens leaves Lakeshore Advantage with legacy of collaborative leadership

Outgoing Lakeshore Advantage President reflects on entrepreneurship, partnerships, and the long-term projects that transformed communities and strengthened the region.

Zeeland celebrates city manager’s 25 years of service, leadership, and grace

Residents, friends, and leaders honor Zeeland City Manager Tim Klunder's leadership, relationships, and faith while thanking him during his battle with cancer.

July ADA Celebration brings advocacy, resources, inclusion to Muskegon County communities

The free July 21 event celebrating the ADA's anniversary connects residents with disability resources, assistive technology, voter information, and advocacy organizations.

Students turn culinary skills into scholarship support and career connections 

Allegan County culinary students showcased restaurant skills while raising scholarship funds and building career connections through the ProStart fundraiser event.

Gentex veterans group expands support for Michigan Veteran Homes residents

Gentex employees raise funds, volunteer, and add dementia technology supporting veterans living at Michigan Veteran Homes in Grand Rapids.

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