Community Development

Tim Klont is the CEO of MSHDA.

Regional Housing Partnerships do the critical work locally to move needle on Statewide Housing Plan

Michigan’s first-ever Statewide Housing Plan was released in June 2022, almost three years ago. A little over the halfway point of the comprehensive five-year plan, stakeholders and collaborative partners look at just how critical regional housing partnerships are in their own communities — moving the needle forward across the entire state. 

Latest in Community Development
Newaygo is among the communities receiving money for placemaking projects.
West Michigan communities awarded grants to help with placemaking projects

Projects in Holland, Saugatuck, and Muskegon are among seven West Michigan placemaking initiatives awarded funding to revitalize community spaces and downtown areas.

The START Collaborative's first retreat in January 2024.
From tornado to ice storm, collaborative addresses unmet needs in Otsego County

Inspired by a string of recent disasters, the START Collaborative aims to address unmet needs in Otsego County through collaboration between nonprofits, schools, hospitals, government entities, and businesses.

Funds from the 2020 EPA grant helped support site assessment at Terra Station, a 12-building, mixed-use complex currently under construction in Hudsonville.
EPA grant helps Ottawa County turn contaminated sites into community assets

Federal funds will support environmental assessments to prepare contaminated properties for redevelopment, spurring investment and protecting local waterways.

Event helps autistic children and adults get used to the airport environment and boarding experience.
On Board for Autism: Airport simulation helps autistic kids take flight

To help autistic people and their families manage  these challenges, Autism Alliance of Michigan (AAoM), Delta Airlines, and the Detroit Metropolitan Airport partner to host On Board for Autism events that prepare them to successfully take a flight.

The Hispanic Center of Western Michigan (HCWM) has acquired the Tri-Cities Puentes Initiative.
Hispanic Center expands Lakeshore reach through Tri-Cities Puentes acquisition

A merger brings vital programs under one roof, strengthening support and cultural connections for Hispanic communities across West Michigan.

From stroke survivor to advocate: Muskegon man finds purpose after life-altering health crisis

After a life-changing stroke, Carl Ferguson found purpose through Disability Network West Michigan, and now serves on its board to inspire others.

Blueprint for school funding would ensure equitable resources in special education

The MI Special Education Finance Reform Blueprint would ensure that Michigan adequately and equitably funds public special education in Michigan. 

AAoM NAT Conference vendors include autistic artists and entrepreneurs.
Beyond awareness, autism acceptance affirms neurodiversity and improves lives

The Autism Alliance of Michigan and other advocates for autistic people are working hard to move from raising autism awareness to fostering autism acceptance. 

Meena Ariagno
‘Eavesdrop with Meena’ podcast explains reach

Saugatuck’s Meena Ariagno takes her second podcast season to iHeartMedia, featuring compelling conversations with local, national, and global voices.

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