Diversity & Equity

People supported by Blue Water Developmental Housing gather for a birthday dinner at a restaurant

With supportive services, people with disabilities move toward independence

Through its Community-Based Program, Blue Water Developmental Housing, Inc. supports people with disabilities on their terms. They decide what services they want and need, so that they can become more independent.   

Latest in Diversity & Equity
Norman Clement, Detroit Change Initiative
Redistricting – and how nonprofits helped to preserve democracy

While memories of the November elections might be fading, the results are here for the long haul as the new Michigan legislature gets to work. In this feature by MJ Galbraith, read how historically underrepresented “communities of interest” weighed in on redistricting decisions of the bipartisan Michigan Independent Citizens Redistricting Commission with some surprising results.

Desirae Simmons
Engaging people typically left out of the public decision-making process

The long and patient road toward social justice involves listening to community members. The Interfaith Council for Peace & Justice engages people in conversations and actions, giving voice to those impacted by public policy and decision making who typically don’t have a seat at the table.  

Voices of Youth: What would our youngest community members change? We ask them.

Model D spent time with youth from three different Detroit neighborhoods, listening to what they love about their communities and what they hope to change, capturing their words in insightful sketches. Now, our youngest residents will get a chance to report to you.   

The Opening Ceremony of the Special Olympics
#Inclusion revolution: Sandusky teens unite to bring awareness to Special Olympics and Inclusivity

High school senior Anisha Chopra recounts her time at the Special Olympics USA Games with her Special Olympics partner and how it shaped her to advocate for inclusion. 

Phil Gilchrist of Anton Art Center
A more equitable art scene in Macomb County

Anton Art Center’s IDEA Council called for a work of public art that would represent Macomb County communities of color – and the center made it happen in the heart of downtown Mount Clemens.

Welcome aboard The Helm

Our crew here at The Helm is excited to have you join us as we showcase the unique culture and beauty of Sandusky, its people and the surrounding area.

Supportive and safe housing for LGBTQ youth

Amy Kuras spoke with Mark Erwin of Ruth Ellis Center about the recent opening of Detroit's first housing center dedicated to LGBTQ youth. The Clairmount Center also has wraparound services, including health care and employment support, co-located on the premises, to remove common barriers to access for this population. 

Jametta Lilly.
As it prepares to disband, Michigan task force on COVID racial disparities leaves a healthy legacy

Task force members are looking back on the work they've accomplished and the groundwork they've laid for continued progress toward dismantling health disparities in Michigan.

A day in the life of a visually impaired teen

My name is Da'Nyah and I'm visually impaired. I know what you’re thinking: how do I get through my day, and how do I live my life? Well, I'm going to take you through a typical school day, complete with all of its ups and downs.

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