COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

Jul 09 2025LIFESTYLE

A Half-Century of Growth and Togetherness!

It's been five decades since a small group of people came together with a big idea. They wanted to make a difference. They wanted to inspire others. And they wanted to build a community that would last. Today, that dream is still alive and kicking. Over the years, this group has grown. It has evolved. It has faced challenges. But it has also celebrated victories. It...

reading time about 1 minute
Jun 21 2025LIFESTYLE

Lemonade Stands: A Summer Tradition in California

Lemonade stands are a beloved summer tradition in many neighborhoods, especially in California. They are more than just a way to beat the heat; they are a hands-on lesson in entrepreneurship for kids. But before setting up shop, it's important to know the rules. In California, the good news is that kids can run lemonade stands without a seller's permit. This is becau...

reading time about 2 minutes
Jun 18 2025BUSINESS

Waukegan's New Hub for Business and Community

The Waukegan Mail Depot is more than just a place to pick up mail or ship packages. It is a vibrant community hub created by Janessa Rodriguez, Raquel Cruz, and Gabriel Cruz. These entrepreneurs opened their doors in November with a clear vision: to foster a space where local businesses could thrive and the community could come together. The depot is not just for ma...

reading time about 3 minutes
Jun 18 2025HEALTH

Unlocking Community Power: How Local Efforts Boosted Polio Vaccination in Pakistan

In Pakistan, stopping polio is a big deal. The country still struggles with this disease, even though the world is trying hard to wipe it out. A recent effort showed that getting the community involved can make a real difference in getting more kids vaccinated. This was not just about giving out vaccines. It was about changing how people think and act within their co...

reading time about 1 minute
Jun 16 2025OPINION

Saratoga's Heartbeat: The Power of Volunteers

Saratoga is a city that thrives on the dedication of its volunteers. From the Saratoga Library to the lively Saratoga Nights, these events and places are the result of countless hours given by people who care deeply about their community. However, there's a growing concern: many local groups are struggling to find new volunteers. This isn't just a local issue; it's a...

reading time about 1 minute
Jun 06 2025HEALTH

Fun and Free Therapy Hub Opens in St. Cloud

A new health center is about to launch in St. Cloud. This place is all about helping kids with special needs. It's called The Family Achievement Center. The center will focus on occupational, physical, and speech therapy. The goal is to give kids a better shot at a happy, healthy life. The center is not alone in its mission. It is part of a bigger family. A sister c...

reading time about 1 minute
May 30 2025ENTERTAINMENT

Clarksdale Celebrates Its Own: The Sinners Festival

Clarksdale, Mississippi, a town of about 14, 000 people, mostly Black, finally got to see their story on the big screen. This happened thanks to the Sinners festival, a three-day event that brought the film Sinners to their hometown. The film, released in April, is about two brothers in the 1930s who return home to open a juke joint. It made over $200 million in the ...

reading time about 1 minute
May 30 2025ENTERTAINMENT

Malverne's Cinema: A Community's Fight to Revive Its Film Haven

The Malverne Cinema and Art Center, a beloved spot for movies, shut down last year after a disagreement between owners and the landlord. The closure left a void in the community, but hope is on the horizon. Nick Hudson, a local resident with a passion for film, saw an opportunity to breathe new life into the cinema. He runs a nonprofit focused on film and distributi...

reading time about 2 minutes
May 25 2025HEALTH

The Hidden Legacy of Childhood Trauma

The cycle of childhood trauma is a serious issue. It affects how a child's brain and body grow. This trauma can lead to long-term mental health problems and chronic diseases. It can also repeat itself in future generations. This is where the STANCE program comes in. It was created to break this cycle. The program focuses on helping young children and their families. ...

reading time about 1 minute
May 20 2025HEALTH

Genetic Research and Black Churches: A Powerful Alliance

The world of medicine is changing fast. Genetic and genomic research are at the heart of this change. They offer big hopes for tackling long-standing health issues in Black communities. These issues include cancer disparities and poor outcomes. However, there are big hurdles to overcome. Many in the Black community face barriers to joining these research efforts...

reading time about 2 minutes