What happens when a few people pick up puppets? In central Michigan, it’s become a source of creativity, connection, and unexpected courage. Learn how the Central Michigan Area Puppetry Club is growing a supportive, joy-filled community.
For 50 years, Wayside Central has been a place where memories are made and music never stops. Family-owned since 1975, the Hunter family’s dedication—and the loyalty of their staff and community—has kept the nightclub present in Mt. Pleasant for generations.
After federal funding cuts through the 2025 Rescissions Act, WCMU Public Media faces a 19% annual budget loss. Yet, through strong listener and viewer support and their unwavering commitment to local storytelling, the station continues to educate, inform, and inspire audiences across 42 Michigan counties.
Whether through children’s tales, Braille features, or QR-linked ASL resources, the StoryWalk initiative opens doors to literacy and provides a creative way for the community to connect with stories outside.
Two downtown arts organizations, Reach Art of Mid Michigan and For Art’s Sake, are working to increase art and culture experiences in the greater Mt. Pleasant community. Together, they ensure art remains accessible, engaging, and vital to the area’s cultural life.
Kinderbells, a five-foot-tall, interactive music sculpture now installed in Nelson Park. Created by Traverse City artist Tom Kaufmann, Kinderbells invites visitors to play, reflect, and celebrate community.
Michigan’s rural residents face different challenges when accessing mental health care than residents of urban areas. Transportation issues, loneliness, and limited group therapy options can compound their mental health needs. To address these challenges, community mental health (CMH) agencies like Sanilac County Community Mental Health innovate community-based solutions that meet their populations where they are at.
From CMU open mic nights to major festival stages, Joe Hertler & The Rainbow Seekers return to Mt. Pleasant Aug. 14 with their signature high-energy blend of rock, soul, funk, and pop for the Max & Emily’s Summer Concert Series.
En 2024, los educadores de la primera infancia en el suroeste de Detroit observaron una caída significativa en la inscripción preescolar tras el aumento de la actividad de control de inmigración. Aunque el descenso no fue documentado oficialmente en ese momento, las organizaciones comunitarias informan que aproximadamente el 15% de los estudiantes fueron retirados de los programas preescolares del área en cuestión de semanas.
Across Michigan, community mental health (CMH) agencies are expanding their reach through partnerships with local organizations that address housing, transportation, and other barriers to care. These collaborations aim to create a more coordinated and accessible mental health system, particularly for individuals with complex needs.
Our Partners
