Author

Shandra Martinez

Shandra's Latest Articles

Ticket to Work helps people with disabilities return to work safely

The program offers guidance and support so people with disabilities can work without losing benefits, addressing fears, complexity, and financial instability.

West Michigan program links food access to student learning

Kids’ Food Basket pairs meals with nutrition education, helping West Michigan students improve focus, try more nutritious foods, and build healthy habits.

West Michigan accessibility event expands regionally amid rising demand

Absolutely Accessible grows beyond Kent County, drawing larger crowds, new partners, and an expanded focus on housing, design, and regional accessibility solutions.

CultureWorks marks 15 years supporting teens through arts, connection

Holland nonprofit expands free programs, helping teens find belonging, confidence, and creative outlets while community support fuels rapid growth and access.

Gentex engineers help nonprofits improve efficiency

Gentex engineers apply manufacturing skills to streamline donations, boost volunteer impact, and expand services at Community Action House and Kids’ Food Basket.

The Established Home mother-daughter designers launch children’s book to help families navigate life transitions

West Michigan design duo Jean Stoffer and her daughter, Grace Start, share a new children’s book offering families practical, faith-centered strategies to help children cope with moves and change.

Free AI classes aim to narrow growing digital knowledge gap

Hope alum Tim Haines’ free AI classes support entrepreneurs and business owners, though challenges remain in scaling access and sustaining the model.

How mentorship helps one man build stability despite setbacks 

A long-term mentoring relationship shows how accountability, honesty, and persistence can support progress, even as challenges and setbacks continue along the way.

Holland author Lynn Austin highlights local ties in new novel

Holland author Lynn Austin discusses The Lumber Baron’s Wife, inspired by local history and set partly in West Michigan, during April 23 event.

Summit focuses on solutions to Allegan County’s housing shortage

The Allegan County Housing Summit will bring leaders together on May 8 to explore solutions, tools, and strategies to address a 6,200-unit housing shortage.

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