Community Development

AAoM's Navigating Autism Today Conference takes place November 15, 2024, in Grand Rapids at the Grand Valley State University Pew Campus L.V. Eberhard Center.

Navigating Autism Today Conference in Grand Rapids focuses on navigating autism for a lifetime

The Autism Alliance of Michigan (AAoM) is preparing for its upcoming Nov. 15 Navigating Autism Today Conference in Grand Rapids. The event connects families and autistic individuals with resources and support networks on critical topics: financial planning, health care advocacy, employment, and independent living solutions for adults on the spectrum.

Latest in Community Development
Marcus Drenth of NineTen Media
Marketing agency looking to offer pro bono services to 3 West Michigan nonprofits

Grand Rapids' NineTen Media offers pro bono digital services to local nonprofits.  

Herrick District Library is again celebrating Día de Muertos. Marigolds are a well-recognized symbol of the LatinX holiday, used in ofrendas and decorations.
Día de Muertos, National HIspanic Heritage Month, and marigolds coming to local library

The library is celebrating National Hispanic Heritage Month and Día de Muertos with several events, including crafts and cupcake classes for teens and adults.

Downtown improvements help Allegan draw new businesses and visitors

With a fresh streetscape and improved infrastructure, Allegan is welcoming new businesses and visitors alike. The southwestern Michigan city is also home to vibrant community programming and a notable craft beer scene.  

Parents indicated that needed services like speech therapy, occupational therapy, and paraprofessional support were inadequate.
Survey activates education advocacy for Michigan children with disabilities

Special Education Experience (SEE) survey results revealed that needed improvements in special education that the state identified in 2014 have not been made.  

Paws With A Cause embarks on a new chapter with a $9.5 million renovation of its Wayland headquarters to expand custom-trained assistance dog services.
Paws With A Cause’s $9.5M facility renovation to expand services

Paws With A Cause embarks on a new chapter with a $9.5 million renovation of its Wayland headquarters to expand custom-trained assistance dog services.

Jennifer Evans
Meet Jennifer Evans, Out on the Lakeshore’s new leader

Jennifer Evans steps in as executive director of Out on the Lakeshore, leading the organization’s LGBTQ+ advocacy efforts.

Rachel Gorman, chief operating officer of the Muskegon Lakeshore Chamber of Commerce, will succeed Cindy Larsen as president.
Rachel Gorman steps up into new role with Muskegon Lakeshore Chamber

Rachel Gorman, chief operating officer of the Muskegon Lakeshore Chamber of Commerce, will succeed Cindy Larsen as president on Oct. 4 after years of preparation.

A river view of the City of Allegan's downtown. (City of Allegan)
City of Allegan selected for CEDAM fellow

A CEDAM fellow will support Allegan’s economic development, assist with planning updates, and promote equity and community growth.  

Beatrice Salgado, a preschool teacher at the Early Learning Center in Grand Rapids, was honored in the childcare category in 2023.
Front-line employees across West Michigan to be recognized

West Michigan Works! is accepting nominations through Sept. 30 for its 2024 Bev Drake Essential Service Awards. The awards recognize individuals who go above and beyond in a service industry position.

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