West End Commons brings community together in downtown Wixom
A years-in-the-making effort to develop a new gathering place in downtown Wixom is nearing completion with the creation of the 'third space' gathering center, The West End Commons.
Sarah Spohn's Latest Articles
Partner Partner Content How West Oakland communities grow without losing what makes them special
Growth can bring new opportunities — and pressures — to small communities. Leaders across western Oakland County share how thoughtful development, historic preservation, and community input are helping them plan for change without losing what makes their downtowns distinctive.
One Detroit Credit Union brings two new CDFI branches to serve the underserved, unbanked communities
In an effort to serve the underserved, One Detroit Credit Union is expanding its reach with two new branches, both in shuttered former financial institutions. In doubling-down on their commitment to provide more than banking to Metro Detroiters — these branches offer the community products, services and resources for financial health and wealth building.
Modular building, 3D construction paves way for innovative solutions to the housing crisis
As Michigan's affordable housing shortage continues, developers are exploring modular construction and 3D printing as innovative ways to reduce building time and address labor shortages.
As housing costs rise, CEDAM’s TIF guide frames the way for communities to utilize and personalize tax incentives to meet housing needs
CEDAM has released a new housing TIF guide to help Michigan communities understand and apply tax increment financing as a tool to support local housing development and affordability goals.
Detroit Author Curtis Chin is bringing stories of family, food, and identity to Port Huron
Curtis Chin, an LGBTQ+ author, is visiting Port Huron on his Michigan Great Reads book tour. The moderated conversation and book signing of “Everything I Learned, I Learned in a Chinese Restaurant” takes place on Thursday, April 16.
Pups Play, Owners Socialize: Wixom unleashes new indoor dog amusement park
Bark Bark Adventure Park in Wixom provides dogs and their owners a safe space from extreme weather with an indoor track, dog-size-specific play areas, a snack bar, a retail space, and daily daycare options.
Ferndale photographer gets international spotlight with nomination for People’s Choice Award
A Ferndale photographer is gaining international recognition for his macro photography. His photo, “Ready to Pounce,” showcasing the beautiful exotic ambush bug, is in the running for the global People’s Choice Award vote in the Wildlife Photographer of the Year competition.
Berkley Public Library revives video rental store nostalgia with BerkBuster
In a largely digital world, Berkley Public Library is rewinding back to the days of the neighborhood video rental store, with its latest addition, BerkBuster.
Volunteers of America Michigan’s mission made possible by social enterprise thrift stores; support from IFF
Sometimes nonprofits need help to fulfill their mission of helping others within their communities. For Volunteers of America Michigan, when costly necessary roof repairs and upgraded lighting arose, they found a supportive partner in IFF. The community development financial institution that has provided millions of dollars of loans to five of the VOA Michigan thrift stores.
