Muskegon County

Brittany Lenertz is the talent solutions director for West Michigan Works!

West Michigan Works! survey brings into focus barriers faced by job seekers

In a time of high unemployment, some wonder why companies have trouble hiring workers that are a good fit. A West Michigan Works! survey of job seekers is giving the agency — and area employers — a better understanding of the challenges faced in accomplishing that feat.

Paul J. Nawrocki pitches his business idea for The 100 competition at the SURGE Celebration on June 17, 2021.
Entrepreneurs invited to submit ideas for Start Garden competition

The 100 is back. Start Garden’s competition invites aspiring entrepreneurs to submit a video describing their ideas — as many as they like. The 100 finalists chosen in July will need to refine their ideas in preparation for judging at the Demo Day competition in October.  

Remember When Car Show & Cruise is coming to downtown Holland.
Things to do in June: Car shows, festivals, concerts and musicals

Though the Memorial Day weekend marks the unofficial start of summer, Michigan’s sunniest season arrives later this month. There are plenty of ways to get outside and enjoy the sunshine, from car shows to festivals. Check out some of the events scheduled along the Lakeshore. 

Members of the Muskegon Lakeshore Paddle Club.
Muskegon Lakeshore Paddle Club forms to host events benefiting local charities

The new nonprofit is hosting its inaugural race series this year. The June 12 and Aug. 28 events will be held on Mona Lake at Ross Park and will benefit the Mental Health Foundation of West Michigan.

The Muskegon Junior Sailing Program is introducing kids 6 to 18 to the excitement of sailing.
All aboard: Muskegon sailing school offers adventure, excitement

The Muskegon Junior Sailing Program is offering kids 6 to 18 a four-day learning experience that provides adventure while learning. One parent says each of her four sons enjoyed the program and learned responsibility and self-reliance while working with others on board.

The 37,700-square-foot VanDyk Mortgage Convention Center opened this spring. It offers a much-needed convention space along the Lakeshore.
Convention center opens, setting up Muskegon as a year-round destination

With its first event described as “a record-breaking show,” Muskegon’s VanDyk Mortgage Convention Center is generating excitement in downtown Muskegon. The 37,700-square-foot facility will be ideal for conventions, conferences, meetings, trade shows, and larger social events, Muskegon Chamber officials say.

Kaja Thornton Hunter with William Boelkins in front of the Barney Maffett's "The Us Cafe."
Kaja Thornton Hunter ‘overcoming barriers’ in her community with full-circle moments

Kaja Thornton Hunter, head of the nonprofit Overcoming Barriers, developed a passion and love for those with disabilities. Entrepreneur Thornton Hunter also created Kaja’s Flavor Packs to bring the beloved flavor of a Southern crab boil to Muskegon. 

Jessie Nieusma works with the medical community, businesses, and schools to raise awareness and acceptance, and to humanize transgender people and kids, so they receive the care and role models need.
How an educator and advocate is building awareness and acceptance of transgender community

Jessie Nieusma works with the medical community, businesses, and schools to raise awareness and acceptance, and to humanize transgender people and kids, so they receive the care and role models needed.

A stand member looks out across the neighborhood from the Porch of The Lemonade Stand of Muskegon.
Muskegon’s Lemonade Stand offers an oasis for those struggling with mental illness

For 20 years, The Lemonade Stand has provided a home, family, and support to those struggling with mental health and/or addiction issues in Muskegon. Like many nonprofit mental health programs across the country, The Stand continues to grapple with too little funding, especially since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Koops Automation Systems team members work together to assemble an automated system.
Lakeshore Advantage receives $92K grant to usher in Industry 4.0 readiness

Lakeshore Advantage applied for the grant in partnership with The Right Place, Greater Muskegon Economic Development, and Michigan Manufacturing Technical Center-West. Implementing Industry 4.0 technologies helps manufacturers improve efficiency, increase revenues, and expand innovation.   

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