Good Morning, Southwest Michigan! This week in FIRST & 42, we’re celebrating the groundbreaking of the William Schma House, bringing 48 units of affordable, supportive housing to Kalamazoo for individuals and families in substance abuse recovery. We’re also highlighting the expansion of The Kalamazoo Promise, now covering 100% of community college tuition for eligible students, and the return of the Gilmore Piano Festival, featuring 75+ stunning performances from April 30–May 10. We’re also excited about the $9 million Thrive Together campaign from Heritage Community of Kalamazoo Foundation, advancing the future of senior living through campus and program improvements. Plus, on April 30, don’t miss two events: MIX at RID+I Talent Celebration and Senior Showcase and the Crain’s Leadership Exchange featuring our very our Carla Sones as the keynote speaker.
KALAMAZOO COUNTY
William Schma House Breaks Ground
Kalamazoo leaders have broken ground on the William Schma House, a 48-unit supportive housing development for people recovering from addiction. The project will pair affordable housing with on-site recovery support and case management.
● The Kalamazoo Growlers have announced a naming rights partnership with Honor Credit Union, renaming the venue Honor Credit Union Stadium.
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● Sherman Lake YMCA’s Success for Every Child fundraiser returns Friday, June 12, supporting camp scholarships for children across the region.
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● The Chamber’s Brick & Mortar Retail Growth Lab starts Tuesday, May 12 to help local storefronts strengthen operations and grow.
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● WMU's Haworth College of Business has received a $17 million gift from the Stan Lucas Trust, the largest in the college’s history.
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● The Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southwest Michigan Benefit Dinner returns Monday, June 1, supporting mentor matches for local youth.
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● The Pokégnek Bodéwadmik Department of Education will host a public College & Career Fair on Saturday, May 2 in Dowagiac.
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● This week’s Chamber Member Insight Weekly features Jeannie Cleaning on the ripple effect that comes from leading with people first.
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Upcoming Events
MIX at RID+I | Talent Celebration and Senior Showcase
Join us for MIX at RID+I on Thursday, April 30, an evening at South Kohrman Hall celebrating graduating seniors, final projects, and the future of design and innovation in Southwest Michigan.