Volunteerism

Frank Kraai, of Holland, poses along the Window on The Waterfront park in Holland, Michigan where a new ice rink will be built after he donated $1 million toward the effort.

Retired teacher donates $1M to bring ‘pure joy’ to Michigan community

Retired teacher Frank Kraai is giving his life savings of $1 million to bring an ice skating rink to downtown Holland that he hopes will bring “pure joy” to the residents.

Latest in Volunteerism
Emily Polet-Monterosso was among 22 single-kidney climbers who tackled Mount Kilimanjaro earlier this month.
Climbing to new heights after kidney donation

In her own words, Holland native Emily Polet-Monterosso describes the experience of climbing the world's tallest free-standing mountain with a group of climbers who had one thing in common — each had donated a kidney to someone else.

After being put on hold by the COVID-19 pandemic, the Tulip City United Soccer Club is getting its start this year with tryouts next week.
Tulip City United Soccer Club kicks off Its inaugural season this summer

After two years of patiently waiting, Tulip City United Soccer Club is kicking off its inaugural season in June. There are open tryouts for the club from 1-4 p.m. on March 12 at the Holland High soccer field.

Briana Kooiman became a victim advocate for the Holland Department of Public Safety after the victim services unit helped her.
Victim turned advocate serves alongside those who helped her

From providing a comforting shoulder to changing diapers or finding temporary housing for clients, Holland's Victim Service Unit volunteers are a unique breed of helper.

Jaquelin Romero is the Boys and Girls Club of Greater Holland 2022 Youth of the Year.
Jaquelin Romero named Holland’s Youth of the Year

Jaquelin Romero has big dreams, and the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Holland 2022 Youth of the Year isn't wasting any time working toward achieving them.

John Shea has been donating blood for nearly 50 years.
Saving lives: Why John Shea has been donating his blood for nearly 50 years

As blood supply levels hit dangerously low levels, John Shea explains why he has made a habit of donating his blood for nearly 50 years. 

Beauty Beyond Drag Productions will raise awareness for the Grand Rapids Red Project.
Make Waves on the Lakeshore: Turn on your heartlight

Warm your heart and the hearts of others by giving your time, talent, or cold hard cash. 

Emily Polet-Monterosso became active when she learned she was a match to donate her kidney. Now she's climbing Mount Kilimanjaro to show what people with only one kidney can do.
Holland native and kidney donor to climb Mount Kilimanjaro

Before Holland native Emily Polet-Monterosso decided to donate her kidney to a stranger, her life was pretty normal. It still is. She wants people to know they, too, can donate organs and go on to lead happy, normal lives ... and do 'fantastic, amazing things.'

Volunteer opportunities along the Lakeshore don't stop when the snow falls.
Make Waves on the Lakeshore: Let kindness fight the wintertime blues

There are plenty of ways to fight the good fight this season. Here are some ideas for making a difference this winter along the Lakeshore.

From left, Iliana Ponce, Esther Fifelski, and Susan Kragt are among those advocating for Afghan refugees in West Michigan.
Lakeshore agencies welcome Afghan refugees with open arms

Bethany Christian Services is working in concert with Lighthouse Immigrant Advocates to help Afghan individuals and families who are seeking asylum following the U.S. armed forces withdrawal from Afghanistan.

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