Community Development

Hot air balloons have become a staple of River Days

Midland shines during River Days 2025 with four days of sun, fun, and community connection

River Days 2025 brought four days of perfect weather, hot air balloons, fireworks, music, and family activities to downtown Midland and Chippewassee Park, drawing strong community turnout.

Latest in Community Development
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. 

Simranjit Kaur, the author of this story.
Creating safer spaces for domestic violence survivors of marginalized identities

People from non-Asian communities may not always understand the cultural factors that impact domestic violence survivors from South Asian and other marginalized communities. Student writer Simran Kaur digs into the issue for our Voices of Youth series.

Report highlights opportunities to improve Midland housing as demand and costs rise

A new report outlines rising housing demand and affordability concerns in Midland, while highlighting opportunities for growth and local efforts to expand access and availability.

Head Start and similar programs build academic skills as well as social and emotional strengths. 
60 years of Head Start. What’s next?

As Head Start marked its 60th anniversary this past May, the program’s legacy stands as more than a historical benchmark. It offers a powerful example of how early learning can drive equity, resilience, and long-term impact. 

Midland River Days 2025: Family fun, food, live music, and hot air balloons

Once a tribute to Midland’s history, River Days has evolved into a major family festival featuring balloons, food, music, and community fun at the Tridge.

Midland brings summer fun with sidewalk sales, adult recess, and photo contest

Downtown Midland comes alive this summer with sidewalk sales, weekly adult recess activities, and a photo contest inviting residents to capture life in their community.

Community collaborations help coordinate shelter, food, clothing, and other basic needs alongside behavioral health services. Community Action of Allegan County home-delivered meals drivers.
Mental health agencies strengthen services through community collaborations

Across Michigan, community mental health (CMH) agencies are expanding their reach through partnerships with local organizations that address housing, transportation, and other barriers to care. These collaborations aim to create a more coordinated and accessible mental health system, particularly for individuals with complex needs.  

A new chapter for Midland County: Sheriff Scott Holzinger leads with heart and vision

Midland County’s new Sheriff Scott Holzinger emphasizes integrity, community-focused leadership, staff wellness, youth outreach, and honoring his family legacy while strengthening county ties and resources.

Our Partners

Don't miss out!

Everything Midland County, in your inbox every week.

Close the CTA

Already a subscriber? Enter your email to hide this popup in the future.