On the Ground

On the Ground helps to tell the story of the people, projects, and innovations that are creating “what’s next” for communities. The intended impact is for “solutions-oriented” media coverage, engagement, and ultimately understanding of the community, resulting in awareness and investments that can contribute to the vitality and prosperity of the district covered.

The concept of On the Ground is to use an “embedded journalism” model to maintain a presence in a specific community. During this time the publication focuses weekly coverage on those neighborhoods to tell the story of the people, organizations, and businesses working and living there.

On the Ground has been embedded in the city of Ypsilanti since July 2017.

On the Ground is supported by Washtenaw County Parks and Recreation Commission, Washtenaw Community College, Destination Ann Arbor, Eastern Michigan University, Ann Arbor SPARK, Washtenaw ISD, and Center for Health and Research Transformation.

To learn more about On the Ground program, click here.

An open mic night at the Ypsilanti Freighthouse.

UMS residency returns to Ypsi with pay-what-you-can concerts, film screening, kids’ events, and more

The University Musical Society (UMS) will host another residency at the Ypsilanti Freighthouse this spring, bringing performances, participatory events, and family programming shaped by local partnerships and direct community input.

A sign in the window of Book Love Bar in Ypsilanti.
As ICE comes to Ypsi, residents organize to protect neighbors and prevent misconduct

Community advocates are urging residents to organize, prepare, and support one another as enforcement actions become more visible and more aggressive.

Cherisa Allen in the Ypsilanti Community Schools Resiliency Center.
Ypsi schools’ Resiliency Center expands significantly over five years serving families in need

Since 2020, Ypsilanti Community Schools' Resiliency Center has been quietly serving hundreds of families who are experiencing housing insecurity and other challenges.

Jones Natatorium at Eastern Michigan University.
National swimming and diving championship books next 2 years in Ypsi

The 2027 and 2028 National Association of Intercollegiate Athletes Swimming and Diving National Championships will take place at Eastern Michigan University's Jones Natatorium in Ypsilanti.

Electric vehicle chargers at the Ypsilanti Performance Space.
Ypsi venue opens solar-powered electric vehicle chargers for free use

Prompted in part by neighborhood power outages, the Ypsilanti Performance Space recently began operating four solar-powered electric vehicle chargers.

Lindsay Jenkins with clothing from her LYNZI brand.
EMU fashion student wins scholarship established by iconic designer Virgil Abloh

Lindsay Jenkins, an Eastern Michigan University student majoring in fashion marketing innovation, was one of 60 recipients of a $10,000 college scholarship from the Virgil Abloh “Post⁠-⁠Modern” Scholarship Fund this year.

Ambassadors for the Healing Brothers United mental health program meet at Packard Health's Carpenter Road location in Ypsilanti.
“It’s okay to get help”: New program offers mental health support for Black men and boys in Ypsi and Ann Arbor

Packard Health's new Healing Brothers United program will soon launch a variety of mental health services aimed at local Black men and boys.

Ypsilanti middle school students visit Coleman A. Young International Airport.
Ypsi middle schoolers explore future careers through hands-on pilot program

The "From Curiosity to Career" program gives students exposure to careers in advanced manufacturing, aerospace, mobility, robotics, and engineering.

Downtown Ypsilanti.
Ypsi selected to join downtown revitalization program with emphasis on small manufacturers

Ypsilanti is one of six communities participating in Recast City’s Recast Leaders program, which is focused on strengthening local economies through small-scale manufacturing and product-based businesses. 

Ypsilanti International Elementary School teacher Gary Quann and Ypsilanti Future History project leader Nick Azzaro (adults in back row) with Quann's class, wearing masks they made in response to the history of an underground venue in Ypsilanti.
Students respond to Ypsi history through art in “Ypsilanti Future History” project

Ypsilanti Community Schools students at all grade levels are learning about Ypsilanti's history and making art about it in a project called Ypsilanti Future History.

Our Partners

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Washtenaw ISD logo
Eastern Michigan University
Ann Arbor Art Center
UMS
U of M Arts Initiative
Engage EMU

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