Renee Thompson with Disability Advocates of Kent County makes adjustments to the new walker being loaned to Ronny Richardson through DAKC's Occupational Therapy Equipment Loan Closet.

Finding belonging through empowerment: One journey with Disability Advocates of Kent County

For Ronny Richardson, Disability Advocates of Kent County's Occupational Therapy Equipment Loan Closet didn't merely provide him with needed medical equipment; they extended personalized support to empower him and help him fully participate in his community. 

The Henderson family pose with gifts before they are wrapped for the Community Action of Allegan Holiday Giving program.
Paying it forward: A former recipient gives back to support Allegan families

A successful fundraiser provided gifts to families and seniors, inspiring Allegan Pizza Hut’s manager to expand community support year-round.  

Sarah Leach
Veteran journalist leads nonprofit news network in Ottawa County

Veteran journalist Sarah Leach leads Ottawa News Network, a nonprofit news outlet dedicated to local coverage and civic engagement in Ottawa County.

Michigan student loan repayment program helping to tackle mental health workforce shortage

Michigan has long faced a critical shortage of mental health professionals, impacting access to vital care for communities across the state. To address this growing challenge, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) launched the Behavioral Health Now Loan Repayment Program, a strategic initiative aimed at attracting and retaining mental health professionals by alleviating the financial burden of student loans.

Zeeland Citizen's Academy participants learned about how numerous city departments operate and received hands-on experiences.
Zeeland launches second annual Citizen’s Academy

Zeeland's Citizen's Academy gives a special, behind-the-scenes look at the inner-workings of local government — and applications are now being accepted.

Muralist Chris Garcia paints Waves of Innovation on Lakeshore Advantage's newly built Next Center in downtown Holland.
Holland artist captures ‘’waves of innovation’ in Next Center mural

Graffiti artist turned muralist Chris Garcia unveils ‘Waves of Innovation,’ celebrating Holland’s creativity and spirit, at Lakeshore Advantage's Next Center.  

Phyllis Neal found a way to give back in retirement through the AARP and Disability Network West Michigan.
AARP program helps seniors find purpose and make a difference

After retiring from social work, Phyllis Neal sought a meaningful way to give back. An AARP program led her to Disability Network West Michigan, where she found a renewed sense of purpose and full-time employment.

Beyond Basics partners with Muskegon schools, providing one-on-one tutoring to close literacy gaps through a state-funded pilot program.
Muskegon Schools partner with Beyond Basics to close literacy gaps

Beyond Basics partners with Muskegon schools, providing one-on-one tutoring to close literacy gaps through a state-funded pilot program.

Timothy Murphy's Audio Radar enhances gaming experiences for deaf and hard-of-hearing players.
Gaming entrepreneur rediscovered his creative skills at KCAD

Timothy Murphy’s journey from Navy radar technician to gaming entrepreneur relied on the education, experience, and connections he gained at KCAD.

MMA Executive Director Kirk Hallman.
The Muskegon Museum of Art unveils $15.4M expansion

The Muskegon Museum of Art will unveil a $15.4 million expansion, the Bennett-Schmidt Pavilion, that doubles the museum’s size and redefines its role as a national arts destination.

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