nonprofit

Research shows that having early childhood education produces better outcomes. Access and affordability are still issues for a great number of families. For parents of infants and toddlers, finding high quality and affordable day care has become increasingly difficult. Foundations Preschool of Washtenaw County has been working in this arena since 1934 and is the oldest, continuously running childcare center in Michigan. Here in 2026, it is still working through these issues with local families. WEMU's David Fair talked about access and affordability and the future of early education with executive director Sandy Williams.

As national policy changes continue to reshape access to housing, food, health care, and other basic resources, more people are turning to local nonprofits for stability and support. Here in Ypsilanti, that increased need is being felt every day by organizations working directly with individuals and families in crisis. Tyrone Kelsey is the executive director of Friends In Deed. He joined Lee Van Roth to discuss his organization's ongoing mission to serve the public and the challenges they will face in the near future.

Some Washtenaw County community organizations may be getting some financial help in the new year. WEMU’s Kevin Meerschaert reports.

There is strength in numbers, and in a time of increasing community need, banding together can make a difference. That’s the idea behind the group “Ann Arbor Women for Good.” The group has focused its efforts based on Grapevine’s philosophy of “Giving Circles.” WEMU's David Fair talked with business owner, community volunteer, credentialed leadership and executive coach Lisa Pasjberg about how the group started, its impact so far and what lay ahead.

United Way of Southeastern Michigan has earmarked $5.2 million to support households in need, over $1 million of which will benefit Washtenaw County nonprofits. WEMU’s Caroline MacGregor reports.

The Ypsilanti City Council approved plans to build a new community center near Depot Town. WEMU’s Ana Longoria reports.

The Washtenaw County Office of Community and Economic Development (OCED) has released its 2024 Annual Report. Caroline MacGregor has more.

The Washtenaw County Office of Community and Economic Development will be awarding grants of $40,000 each to eight local community organizations. WEMU’s Kevin Meerschaert reports.

District 9 Democrat Katie Scott has been named as the new Chair of the Washtenaw County Board of Commissioners. WEMU’s Kevin Meerschaert has this report.

Charges against defendants in a case involving an alleged dark money scheme in Michigan will continue. Colin Jackson has more.