Community Newsletter | October 1st, 2025

Dear Northside Neighbors, Partners, & Community,

Fall is here, and with it comes a season of reflection, celebration, and new opportunities for growth on the Northside. September reminded us of what’s possible when art, learning, and community come together, and October promises even more chances to connect, celebrate, and build. We’re grateful for your continued partnership and excited to share both the highlights of last month and what’s ahead in the weeks to come.

On September 4th, NACD hosted Brush the Block, Kalamazoo’s first-ever mural festival. The Skeletones filled the evening with music, neighbors joined in on our Imagine That! community art project, and muralist Ellen VanderMyde brought a vibrant new mural to life on our building. Thank you to Consumers Energy, the Arts Council of Greater Kalamazoo, Sounds of the Zoo, and our wall sponsors, Sherwin-Williams and the Kalamazoo Community Foundation, for their support in bringing this to life!

Just a few days later, on September 9th, we celebrated the graduation and pinning ceremony for our newest Certified Nursing Assistant Training Program cohort. Families, friends, and partners came together to cheer on graduates as they take the next step toward meaningful careers in healthcare.

On September 11th, NACD partnered with the Kalamazoo Climate Crisis Coalition for the Safe & Sustainable Living event. Neighbors enjoyed free food, family activities, and resources focused on staying safe during emergencies, reducing environmental pollution, and maintaining healthy homes.

Finally, on September 23rd, our Community Town Hall focused on Kalamazoo’s new Event Center. We had a strong turnout with great questions, thoughtful conversation, and opportunities shared. Thank you to our partners Barton Malow, CSM Group, and Greenleaf Hospitality Group for joining us for such an informative evening.

Speaking of the Event Center, I had the privilege of joining community leaders and partners at the groundbreaking for the new development. This state-of-the-art facility will bring world-class spaces for sports, concerts, conferences, and more to Kalamazoo.

But beyond the excitement of the events themselves, the Event Center represents real opportunity for the Northside community. Through our Community Benefit Agreement, NACD is working to ensure that residents and local businesses have access to jobs, vendor opportunities, and a meaningful role in shaping this transformative project.

We believe this investment will not only bring new energy and resources to Kalamazoo, but also open doors for our neighbors to thrive and showcase their talents on a larger stage.

We’re excited to announce that NACD is now partnering with the Care Collective of Southwest Michigan to support families and individuals in our community. Through this partnership, NACD will serve as a distribution site for diapers, wipes, and period products, helping to ensure that every neighbor has access to the essentials they need. This is another step in our ongoing commitment to supporting families and ensuring every neighbor has access to essentials that promote comfort and care.

September was filled with achievement, collaboration, and moments that truly celebrated our community. As we turn the page, October is already shaping up to be just as exciting. Here’s a look at what’s ahead:

Northside Senior Night @ NACD | October 9th, 6 - 8PM

Join us for a night of connection, fellowship, and community designed to honor the role seniors play in shaping our neighborhood’s story. Catered food, board games with friends, pumpkin carving, and painting.

Tax Foreclosure Community Resource Fair | October 14th, 4:30 - 6:30PM

In partnership with the Kalamazoo County Office of the Treasurer, learn about tax foreclosure prevention resources, explore pathways to homeownership, connect with experts who can answer your questions, and discover programs that support residents and families.

Fireside Chat w/ Daniel Henry | October 16th, 4:30 - 6PM

A special evening with Daniel Henry, a proud product of Kalamazoo’s Northside Community and a current Patent Prosecution Attorney at Marshall Gerstein & Borun LLP in Chicago’s Willis/Sear’s tower.

Monthly Community Board Meeting | October 21st, 6 - 7PM

This is your opportunity to stay informed on local initiatives, share your concerns, and help shape the future of the Northside. This month’s meeting will kick off our new partnership with the Care Collective of Southwest Michigan! Diapers, wipes, and period products will be available to attendees.

As a reminder, our Community Room is now available for rent! Whether it’s a meeting, training, or community gathering, NACD offers a spacious and welcoming environment right here in the neighborhood. Visit our website to learn more and reserve your space today!

Thank you for standing with us as we work to strengthen the Northside. Together, we can keep building a community rooted in strength, unity, and opportunity for all.

Sincerely,

Jonathan Yarbrough
Executive Director
Northside Association for Community Development