Author

Estelle Slootmaker

A working writer since 1992, Estelle Slootmaker loves working as a solutions journalist with Issue Media Group. Apart from IMG, Estelle works as a book editor, in nonprofit communications, and will soon release a new children’s book, Places Where The Sun Don’t Shine. An unashamed tree-hugger, Estelle chairs The Tree Amigos, City of Wyoming Tree Commission. She and her hubby, guitarist Eddie Killowatts, love dancing to new wave, kayaking, growing and cooking healthy food, and hanging out with their terrible terriers, Bindipaws Bowie McCrykie and Skipper D. Doodog.

Estelle Slootmaker's Latest Articles

Farmington’s focus on public art fosters economic growth

The City of Farmington's collaborations support its vision of leveraging public art as an economic driver.

Downtown Utica’s Art Nook: “Super cool place making”

Art Nook connects folks to downtown businesses and showcases a colorful mural by artist Kevin Gano.

“When I grow up.” Inspiring kids to dream big about careers in health care

These collaborations show how growing interest in health care careers can begin early.

Innovation and advocacy: Building the early childhood workforce

If implemented, the many innovative solutions for building the early childhood workforce could have phenomenal results.

Pulse collaboration with MiLeap seeks to transform child care access in Michigan

The Pulse initiative is transforming early childhood in Michigan by bridging the gap between research and practice.

Matthew Verley drops off his son Lil' Matt at child care.
Access to affordable, reliable child care as vital for dads as moms

People often think of child care as a women's or a mother's issue. However, access to affordable, reliable, high quality child care equally benefits fathers. 

2025 Autism Hero Walk Banner
Autism Hero Walk: Grab your capes and get ready to fly!

Join 5,000 families at the Detroit Zoo Sept. 20 for the Autism Hero Walk, celebrating Michigan’s autism community with fun, support, and resources.

Sanilac County CMH CEO Wilbert Morris presents iPad to Sanilac County Sheriff Paul Rich
Meeting rural Michiganders’ mental health care needs

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.   

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.  

Lock Arms and Unite for Autism: Campaign commits to continued advocacy and support

AAOM’s current fundraising campaign, Lock Arms and Unite for Autism seeks to raise $31,000 to support its services for the one in 31 people diagnosed with autism in Michigan. 

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