This story is part of the Southwest Michigan Journalism Collaborative’s coverage of equitable community development. SWMJC is a group of 12 regional organizations dedicated to strengthening local journalism. To learn more, visit swmichjournalism.com.
KALAMAZOO, MI – If you live in the city of Kalamazoo, philanthropy pays for your child’s college tuition, subsidizes your property taxes and, if you’re a new mom, will provide $500 a month during the child’s first year.
It’s why downtown Kalamazoo has a medical school, an Epic Center to house arts organizations, an economic think tank and a sprawling new event center under construction…