youth programs

The Ypsilanti City Council passed a new $53 million budget Wednesday morning while able to protect recycling and youth programs. WEMU’s Kevin Meerschaert reports.

When tragedy befalls a family, the grief never goes away. We all deal with it in different ways. Sometimes, loss gives birth to an action plan to spare others similar pain. That is where the Miles Jeffrey Roberts Foundation in Ann Arbor comes from. Kristen and Jeff Roberts are parents who continue to mourn the loss of their son Miles. He took his life in 2017 at the age of 15. Through the tears, and with purpose and dedication, the Roberts began a foundation aimed at empowering youth athletic communities to promote mental well-being and suicide prevention. They talked about their work with WEMU's David Fair.

Two nonprofits serving youth are the recipients of the 2025 City of Ypsilanti Youth Mini-Grants. One of which is the All About Speed Track Club, which gets kids involved in track and field events. The club's president and head coach, Sean Brandon, Jr., joined Rylee Barnsdale to talk about what's in the club's future thanks to their financial gift.

The school year is winding down, and a lot of the kids in the area are going to be headed to one camp or another. But for some, camp is too expensive, making access difficult or impossible. That’s where Washtenaw Camp Placement comes in. It connects those kids with the opportunity to participate in sleep-away summer camp and build a relationship with nature, increase self-esteem and expand personal horizons. WEMU's David Fair talked with executive director Matt Tarver-Wahlquist about this year’s opportunities and whether changes in federal policy and funding programs will have an impact.

Several dozen people were on hand in Superior Township Thursday morning to celebrate the groundbreaking for the new Garrett’s Space residence and studio. WEMU’s Kevin Meerschaert was there and has this report.

Alyshia Dyer was elected Washtenaw County Sheriff last November and has been on the job since January. She ran on a progressive policing agenda with an eye towards reducing harm in the community. WEMU's Caroline MacGregor sat down with the Sheriff to discuss how the transition is going early in her tenure and what her plans are for the future.

Registration opens soon for a number of summer camps that aim to inspire future explorers and professionals. WEMU’s Caroline MacGregor reports.

The Superior Township Board of Trustees approved a 58-acre deed restriction for the nonprofit organization Garrett’s Space. The organization can now begin establishing a physical location. WEMU’s Ana Longoria has the details.

Creating inclusive spaces for those with sensory needs is at the heart of "Feed the Need Sensory Zone." It’s a Washtenaw County nonprofit fostering a more inclusive community. Organization founder, Tiana Haygood, joined Rylee Barnsdale for this week's “On the Ground Ypsi.”

The Ann Arbor Police Department is instilling a program to create better relationships between law enforcement and young people. WEMU’s Kevin Meerschaert reports.