Since being diagnosed with dementia, Monica Downer (center, being interviewed) has become an activist for awareness of her disease.

PODCAST: Dementia disparities in communities of color

Dementia is challenging for everyone, but it takes a particularly heavy toll in communities of color. Here's how people living with dementia, researchers, and activists are working to change that in Michigan.

The band Flexadecibel performs at Party in the Park in 2022.
Disability Network West Michigan hosts inclusive Party in the Park on July 28

Disability Network West Michigan is making the Party in the Park on July 28 accessible in several ways, from having ASL interpreters to wheelchair-accessible seating.

PeopleForBikes and its Bicycle Network Analysis software weigh six factors in determining a city’s score, which is released on a scale of 0 to 100.
Traverse City, Grand Haven, and Marquette ranked top three Michigan cities for bicycling

This year’s rankings of the Best Places to Bike from bicycle industry and advocacy group PeopleForBikes have been released.

Students run a farm stand as part of Partridge Creek Farm's farm to school program in Ishpeming.
Michigan programs empower kids to be community health leaders

When kids take the reins, health and wellness programs take off in new and wonderful directions that the adults in charge would never have anticipated. 

Pictured from left to right are Heather Upright-Solomon of ATA Title Group, Marine Deputy David Quarry, Marine Supervisor Todd Wagner and Kevin Schippa of Re/Max Realty of Saugatuck-Douglas.
Realtors association partners with marine law enforcement to protect children on the water

When someone finds themselves in the water unexpectedly, panic can set in instantly. The West Michigan Lakeshore Association of Realtors is again partnering with law enforcement agencies for the “Save-A-Life” program to ensure people are safe while enjoying that water this summer.

Cyndy Hund, pictured here with her husband Mike, quit her job due to her dementia symptoms – but it still took her another four years to get a diagnosis.
PODCAST: No more “diagnose and adios”: Rethinking dementia diagnosis

Getting a dementia diagnosis can be a challenging, years-long process. Here's how Michiganders living with dementia and those who care for them are working to change that.

Shawn Edwards, GHS senior director of engagement, diversity, and inclusion
“No-wrong-door” policy welcomes immigrants at Genesee Health System

Immigrants and refugees often face stressors that impact their mental health. Michigan’s community mental health agencies can help.

Washtenaw County CMH staff. Top row L-R: Valerie Bass, Dr. Montgomery Brower, Andrew Grier, Shad Jordan. Bottom row l-R: Shannon Ellis, Margaret Carmalt, Angela Burchard, Jeff Beckley, Melisa Tasker
Regional Health Collaboratives improving access to behavioral health services

Regional Health Collaboratives are a model for improving a region’s wellbeing and unnecessary medical costs through collaboration and systems change. 

Show and Shine Car Show & Cruise spectators can line up anywhere along the Main Street cruise route.
Things to do in July: Fireworks and music, car shows, Fiesta and magic

Independence Day is celebrated across the country, and the Lakeshore is no exception. Fireworks will streak across the sky in many Lakeshore communities. July events also include LAUP’s Fiesta, theater, garden walks, and street performances.

Students participate in the LIFT-UP program.
Students help ensure farm sustainability and bring local food to cafeterias in UP program

The LIFT-UP program gives students a pivotal role in identifying and addressing barriers to expanding local produce in school cafeterias.

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