Healthy Communities

The Mason Public Library is located at 145 W. Ash St. in downtown Mason.

Mason wins $250K grant for historic preservation project

“The Certified Local Government program continues to be one of the strongest tools for supporting historic preservation projects at the local level,” says State Historic Preservation Officer Ryan M. Schumaker.

Latest in Healthy Communities
Physical activity and mental health: LifeWays helps clients make the connection

The connection between physical activity and mental wellness is at the heart of LifeWays’ growing roster of health programs- and community response has been overwhelmingly positive. 

Fresh produce on display at the market.
Supporting ‘Farm Stops’ across rural Michigan

Michigan's Farm to Family Program awarded nearly $350,000 in grants to several "farm stops" across the state. The "farm stops" are small markets selling locally grown fruits, vegetables and other products. 

Roscommon recently earned the first Bird City designation in Michigan while also having installed the state’s largest Kirtland’s Warbler sculpture earlier this summer.
Why these 4 rural communities were named finalists in statewide placemaking competition

"It isn’t easy to choose when everyone is doing such amazing work," says Heather Elliott, member experience coordinator at the Michigan Municipal League. "A special congratulations to our four finalist communities. Your projects showcase the kind of creativity and impact that moves Michigan forward."

A rendering of winter activities at the proposed 285-acre recreation park.
Saving Sugar Loaf: Leelanau Conservancy unveils ambitious recreation plan for former ski resort

The Leelanau Conservancy has big plans for the long-dormant ski resort property, transforming the 285-acre site into a year-round public recreation area.

Complete: The last stretch of the White Pine Trail is paved

The last section of the popular White Pine Trail has been paved. The trail is now the third longest paved trail in the United States. 

“Majestic Riverview Park will not only enhance the entrance to Cheboygan’s downtown, but it will also create a welcoming site for river activity viewing,” says Connie Rieger, Majestic River Park Development Volunteer.
Once site to a historic pavilion, empty lot to be activated as pocket park in downtown Cheboygan

“Majestic Riverview Park will not only enhance the entrance to Cheboygan’s downtown, but it will also create a welcoming site for river activity viewing,” says Connie Rieger, Majestic River Park Development Volunteer.

Julie Molenda
SBAM Nurture Benefits program enhances compensation for child care providers

The Small Business Association of Michigan Nurture Benefits will expand access to health insurance, life insurance, and retirement savings for Michigan's child care providers.  

Heart of West Michigan United Way Chief Administrative Officer Becki Postma, Kent County Community Action Director Gustavo Perez, and Heart of West Michigan United Way Eviction Prevention Program Manager Alyssa Bryan.
Kent County Eviction Prevention Task Force addresses unmet needs behind evictions

Evictions plummeted during the pandemic and soared again after federal protections ended. That led a coalition of Kent County organizations and individuals to form the Kent County Eviction Prevention Task Force.

Justin Nance at the Van Wert Health Fair.
Ohio hygienist trains future workforce through outreach role

Justin Nance blends teaching and patient care to combat workforce shortages and inspire the next generation of dental hygienists in Ohio.

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