Why Momentum Center’s approach to improving mental health is working
Those who take part in the Grand Haven nonprofit's activities report a decrease in depression and anxiety as their social connectedness increases.
Shandra Martinez's Latest Articles
One story of recovery: ‘She gave me a chance when I didn’t think I would get one’
When Jessica Christopher applied to be part of the staff at the Momentum Center for Social Engagement, she worried her past would be an obstacle. It turned out to be an asset.
How a Spring Lake fire station is inspiring communities to use solar power
The station's success with solar energy has inspired similar projects across North Ottawa County. Muskegon solar provider Chart House Energy has made the decision easy for area municipalities by giving them the option of paying no upfront costs.
How PACE could spur energy innovation along the Lakeshore
Bali Kumar explains how businesses and nonprofits can take advantage of the Michigan PACE program to finance sustainable building projects that often don't qualify for traditional bank loans.
Hope professor taking Lakeshore jazz to the next level with new orchestra
Hope professor Jordan VanHemert is the force behind the Holland Concert Jazz Orchestra, which is bringing high-quality jazz performances and learning along the Lakeshore.
21 Lakeshore expansion projects create 1,000 jobs in 2019
Lakeshore companies collectively invested more than $127 million in 21 primarily expansion projects in 2019, creating more than 1,000 new jobs.
How the state’s Going Pro funds boost workers’ skills and pay
In 2019, the Going PRO Talent Fund awarded $32 million in 898 grants that helped pay for training more than 25,000 workers. Those new skills contributed to an average annual wage increase of nearly $6,000.
Holland woman advances from job to career with workplace training
In the last three years, Shelby Baumann's wages have steadily increased along with her skills. She has benefited from workplace training, partially funded through the state's Going Pro grants.
Assessment gives first report on health of Ottawa County nonprofits
The first-of-its-kind assessment of Ottawa County organizations was undertaken by the Lakeshore Nonprofit Alliance. The data gathered covers a range of issues, from finance to diversity and inclusion efforts.
Ottawa County nonprofits flock to board leadership training
“How to be an effective board member” workshops teach new board members best practices of providing leadership for a nonprofit, from governance to fundraising. More than 700 people in Ottawa County have taken part in some kind of board training offered by the Lakeshore Nonprofit Alliance.
