Diversity & Equity

Coverage of programs that deal with gender, age, sexual orientation, religion, physical ability, and socioeconomic status; are focused on fair access to resources and opportunities; and, those that create environments where people feel welcome, respected, and fully accepted.

Event helps autistic children and adults get used to the airport environment and boarding experience.

On Board for Autism: Airport simulation helps autistic kids take flight

To help autistic people and their families manage  these challenges, Autism Alliance of Michigan (AAoM), Delta Airlines, and the Detroit Metropolitan Airport partner to host On Board for Autism events that prepare them to successfully take a flight.

Latest in Diversity & Equity
Blueprint for school funding would ensure equitable resources in special education

The MI Special Education Finance Reform Blueprint would ensure that Michigan adequately and equitably funds public special education in Michigan. 

Leslie Cieplechowicz, The Keel's new Community Correspondent.
New Community Correspondent with The Keel to cover rural life, diversity stories

Grant money provided by the Community Foundation of St. Clair has provided Leslie Cieplechowicz with the new role of Community Correspondent. This role will provide opportunities for minority-owned businesses and rural residents to be highlighted, focusing on recognizing diversity within the Blue Water Area.

AAoM NAT Conference vendors include autistic artists and entrepreneurs.
Beyond awareness, autism acceptance affirms neurodiversity and improves lives

The Autism Alliance of Michigan and other advocates for autistic people are working hard to move from raising autism awareness to fostering autism acceptance. 

Josh Chapman, President and CEO of the Blue Water YMCA.
Transforming Lives: A Conversation with Blue Water YMCA CEO Josh Chapman

Josh Chapman returned to his hometown four years ago to serve as CEO at the YMCA of the Blue Water Area, the same Y he attended as a child and where he had his first college internship. The Y has added and expanded its programs that promote healthy living and provide food and other essential services.

Passengers loading on a COA bus in Port Huron.
Blue Water Area Transit partners with the Council on Aging

Blue Water Area Transit partners with many agencies in the community, including the Council on Aging to provide transportation services and has received numerous awards for services.

Gala rocks and raises funds to advocate for autistic Michiganders

The Autism Alliance of Michigan (AAoM) Michigan Shines for Autism Gala, its largest fundraiser, will rock Detroit’s Motor City Casino Hotel on April 25, 2025 with “an electrifying evening blending a black-tie event with a rebellious twist.” 

This is how to do mental health: Community outreach builds access

The staff of Michigan’s community mental health agencies aren’t sitting at their desks waiting for the phone to ring. They are out in their communities letting people know that mental health care is within reach. 

Mark Witte chats with OnPoint staff: from left,  Andre Pierre, Jr., chief administrative officer; Kelly Dingman, accounting supervisor, and Sarah Lumbert, general accountant.
OnPoint: The many professional roles within mental health care

Michigan’s community mental health agencies need more psychiatrists, psychologists, and master’s level social workers, but they also need bachelor’s level social workers, administrative staff,  peer support specialists, accountants, and direct care workers — roles that require no college degree or degrees in areas not relating directly to mental health. 

New Port Huron Mayor Anita Ashford.
Port Huron makes history with election of first African-American mayor, Anita R. Ashford

Anita Ashford reflects on her journey from community volunteer to historic mayor, vowing to continue her legacy of service and leadership in Port Huron.

Our Partners

Don't miss out!

Everything Port Huron, in your inbox every week.

Close the CTA

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