Families

The city of Holland hosted an open house to display ideas gathered from public input for an ice rink at its downtown park, Window on the Waterfront.

From one man’s dream to a city’s vision: Ice rink proposal for downtown Holland taking shape

What began as one man's vision has taken on the hopes of hundreds as the city of Holland sought out public input for a proposed ice rink near the city's downtown. Retired school teacher Frank Kraai donated the $1 million in seed money, but more will be needed to fully realize the dream. Next comes fundraising. 

Latest in Families
Ian Miskelley dives into the pool during competition.
Be Better; educating coaches, parents, student athletes on mental wellness

Starting with student athletes and the people who are closest to them — coaches and parents — Be Better; is starting an education curriculum to help youth and their adults navigate mental wellness.

Step it Up group walks are led by an Ottawa County naturalist.
Step it Up with walks through nature

Ottawa County’s Step it Up program is encouraging area residents to take to the parks — on their own or as part of one of the county’s organized group outings — and enjoy nature while being active.

Spring Lake is hosting a community-wide Easter egg hunt.
Things to do in April: Spring Fling, hunt for eggs, free movie night

Spring has sprung and Easter is just around the corner. There are plenty of things to do along the Lakeshore in April from Easter egg hunts to watching live performances. 

The staff of Lighthouse Immigrant Advocates.
Group supporting local Afghan refugees among 7 awarded CFHZ grants

Foundation awards $125,000 in grants to seven organizations helping the Holland/Zeeland area thrive.  

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.

Community leaders discuss plans for a Muskegon community resource center.
Plan for Muskegon community resource center, day care gains support

Muskegon Rescue Mission is moving closer to its vision of opening a facility that brings services under one roof and will house an affordable, high-quality preschool and day care facility for low-income families and others.

Mike Larson is the president and CEO of Michigan Association of United Ways.
Bigger tax credit would help working-poor families buy basics

Nonprofits say expanding the state Earned Income Tax Credit can help the growing number of working poor who struggle to afford basic necessities.

The Holland Department of Public Safety's community policing unit has partnered with community organizations to repair and give away working vehicles to those in need.
Community policing creates community connections

Holland's community policing unit takes the time to make connections, hoping positive interactions with police can encourage people to call when they need help and prevent problems from becoming crisis.

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.

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