String lights hanging in an alley way during a festival in downtown Flint.

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Ready to Live Your Best Life? You Can in Michigan

MEDC partners with regional organizations throughout the state to provide you with a real view of what it’s like to live and work in different communities throughout the state. These groups may be part of the local chamber of commerce, economic development team, young professional group or from a Back 2 Michigan organization.

These partners can best connect you to local information on housing, education opportunities, recreation, and community groups where you (and your family) can find “your people” and “your place.” Whether you are interested in living and working in a downtown urban location, want a more suburban option, crave wide open spaces, or just want easy access to fresh water coastline, Michigan provides it all.

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Grand Rapids

Rachel Gray Executive Director Hello West Michigan Linkedin

Q&A

What are your favorite things to do in West Michigan after work and on the weekends? My weekend activities follow the seasons. In the summer, I’m at the beach or shopping at the farmer’s market. We have a huge selection of fresh produce, and I love to eat seasonally. In the fall, I love hiking in the brisk weather and grabbing donuts and hot cider at one of the many orchards here. Normally I’m a late sleeper, but in the winter, I will wake up early to head out into the snow to go cross country skiing. I love talking friends into coming with me and trying it out for the first time. It is my favorite pastime and really affordable to get into for a young professional. I also just invested in downhill skis and excited to do more of that this winter.

TaRita Johnson Senior Vice President, Talent & Diversity The Right Place Linkedin

Q&A

In your opinion, what is special about living in a four-season state? There is something to do every season. In the winter, I love to roller skate (my wheels light up) and go to movies. I love Taco Tuesday movies that are discounted with warm, leather, reclining seats. In the fall, I love the colors, visiting pumpkin patches with my girls, picking apples, getting donuts, and taking hayrides. It’s also beautiful to travel during that time of year. Summer is my favorite with the vast beaches, sand dunes, rivers, and lakes. Also, l love to pick blueberries, strawberries, and green beans. The local farmers’ markets and farms are great places.

What advice do you have for people who are interested in making a move to the Grand Rapids? Leverage your network and share that you are moving to Michigan. We are more connected than many realize (someone always knows someone). Connect with the community colleges and four-year universities for activities, join meet ups, check out local chambers and activities, follow them on Instagram to learn about key events. Check out the museums, community organizations, and churches to build close knit communities. Engage with local libraries for events and resources. If seeking a job, connect with Hello West Michigan and the Michigan Works in your region. If you have children, follow sites like grkids.com to find out more about camps, summer programs, etc. Build a web of resources and connect with people everywhere. Leverage your social media platforms if you have one to share your story.

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