On this week's episode, WYCE Station Manager Phil Tower welcomes Jazz McKinney, executive director of The Grand Rapids Pride Center.

The mission of The Grand Rapids Pride Center is to create positive change for the 2-SLGBTQ+ community by breaking down barriers, creating awareness, providing inclusive services, and bridging relationships.

Jazz spoke about the history of the Pride Center and also discussed the upcoming PrideFest 2025, happening on Calder Plaza on Saturday, June 21, and Sunday, June 22, full of activities for all kinds of people and family-friendly as well.

The first Pride Celebration was held at the Monroe Amphitheater in downtown Grand Rapids on June 19, 1988.

Today, it has grown to be one of the largest one-day events in Grand Rapids.

Grand Rapids Pride Festival is an event that brings 2-SLGBTQ+ community members, 2-SLGBTQ+ businesses, allies, and organizations together to celebrate diversity, inclusion, and the beautiful, vast 2-SLGBTQ+ community!

Going into its 37th year in 2025, Grand Rapids Pride Festival is working to create a safe, open, and inclusive environment for Grand Rapids community members to celebrate who they are.

On this episode, host Janet Zahn welcomes Lakiya Jenkins, executive director of LINC UP, and Donald Thompson, events coordinator with LINC UP.

They joined Janet to discuss their upcoming Rock the Block Festival on June 14th in Grand Rapids

LINC UP’s Rock the Block brings neighbors, local businesses, and community partners together for a vibrant day of connection, celebration, and culture. It features live music and food trucks, local vendors, and many family activities.

Rock the Block transforms their neighborhood into a block party with purpose—celebrating the people who make our community strong.

About LINC UP: With 20 years of experience building affordable housing and community power, LINC UP is working to achieve racial equity in Grand Rapids.

The LINC UP mission is to advance a racial equity agenda in Grand Rapids by Expanding Affordable Housing and Increasing Community Power. They strive to change policies that limit advancement opportunities in under-resourced communities and neighborhoods.

Online: LINC UP

On this episode, we welcome back Dana Romero-, BSCD.

They are the Development Coordinator for Donor Communications at YWCA West Central Michigan.

YWCA West Central Michigan is dedicated to eliminating racism, empowering women and girls, and promoting peace, justice, freedom, and dignity for all.

The YWCA West Central Michigan seeks to inspire hope and healing.

Where racism and sexism give rise to domestic and sexual violence, the YWCA works to transform lives with expert services for victims, and education programs to end those things that fuel abuse.

The YWCA also works to urge public policy that translates its mission into law.

Dana reminded us that one of the biggest fundraisers of the year is coming up on June 7, 2025.

The 41st annual Women Lawyers Versus Judges, Charity Softball game, and fundraiser for the YWCA.

The game is held at LMCU Ballpark.

Learn more about YWCA West Central Michigan.