Downtown Clare has a new vibe, thanks to a new wave of entrepreneurs

The charming community of Clare is experiencing a resurgence in its historic downtown, thanks to a small group of entrepreneurs with new ideas and a collaborative philosophy.

Photo: Courtney Jerome
Downtown Clare has a new vibe, thanks to a new wave of entrepreneurs

Clare, a small farming community in central Michigan, is experiencing a resurgence in its historic downtown, thanks to a small group of entrepreneurs with new ideas and collaborative philosophy. 

Danielle Atkinson
Mothering Justice “Mamas’ Agenda” addresses childcare and early childhood education

A grassroots policy advocacy organization, Mothering Justice provides mothers of color in America with resources and tools to make equitable policy changes. One of its agenda items is early childhood education.

Hillery Ross, How YOU Birth Doulas Services' administrative coordinator, and Allison Keessen, treasurer for How YOU Birth Doula Services.
Initiative rapidly expands doula ranks in Muskegon County, with major implications for birth equity

Muskegon-based How YOU Birth Doula Services is working to improve outcomes for parents and babies by leveraging Michigan's recently added Medicaid coverage for doula services. 

Finch Forever collaboration with Detroit City Distillery sells out within a month

Discover the story behind Tim Otteman's latest endeavor connecting CMU’s Recreation, Parks, and Leisure program with Detroit City Distillery. This innovative partnership not only raises funds for students, but exemplifies the power of collaboration, storytelling, and community engagement—where every bottle tells a tale of heritage, connection, and the spirit of giving back.

Dr. Theresa Hastert (right) helped develop the Michigan Community Outreach to Address Financial Toxicity (MI-COST). Ali Fakih (left) is a research assistant with MI-COST, and Cornelius Wilson (center) sits on its Community Advisory Board.
Here’s how Michigan organizations are working to reduce cancer treatment’s crushing financial burden

In Michigan, several efforts are underway to help cancer patients prepare for, manage, and alleviate the financial struggles associated with treatment.

How at-home vaccinations protect the lives of the state’s most vulnerable

The Michigan Department of Health & Human Services has collaborated with Disability Rights of Michigan to support vaccinations for homebound residents.

How data collection is playing a key role in advancing health equity

A new push to gather health care data about people with disabilities is spotlighting a disparity in health care equity that is often overlooked by the medical community. 

Veronica Bilicki oversees the Patient as Caregiver program.
Henry Ford Health program helps unpaid caregivers stay healthy

The Patient as Caregiver project helps unpaid caregivers carry on in their roles, reducing the amount of hired care needed and helping people age at place in their homes.

Community buzz: Isabella County’s April adventures & events

Isabella County springs to life with diverse April events, from family friendly activities to community fundraisers. Highlights include Rubble’s 80s Bash, Art Reach’s annual Murder Mystery event, a Solar Eclipse Experience, student showcases, sales, the Shepherd Maple Syrup Festival, Ales for Trails, and more.

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