September Newsletter
Photo Credit: United Way of the Lakeshore
Live
The United Way of the Lakeshore kicked off its fundraising campaign with the  25th annual Day of Caring in early September.

Each year, hundreds of volunteers from several companies, organizations, and neighborhoods come together for a day of service to improve the community. This year, the event focused on helping veterans with minor home repairs and landscaping. In addition, volunteers put together classroom supply packages for elementary schools across the nation.

The United Way of the Lakeshore raises funds to benefit the health, education and financial stability of people in West Michigan communities.
Work
The West Michigan Shoreline Food Processing Initiative was recently granted $50,000 by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. The initiative, launched in fall of 2017, aims to grow food processing in the region, turning Muskegon into a key food processing hub.

Recent efforts have included linking area farmers, food processors and governments, with the resources, infrastructure, and educational institutions that are able to train the current and future workforce. The initiative is currently researching an incubation and pilot manufacturing center, to be located in Muskegon.
Photo Credit: Kristy Kenney Grevel ‎
Learn
Muskegon's Mona Shores School District has had a busy start to the school year.

In August, Mona Shores welcomed a new superintendent, Bill O'Brien. O'Brien believes a huge part of his role is serving the community, which ultimately supports students. His immediate plan for the district includes enhancing partnerships, increasing the use of data, and establishing a team culture.

Adding to the excitement, Mona Shores held their annual Sailor Salute in mid-September. The community-wide celebration intends to pay tribute to active duty military, veterans, and first responders. The goal is to present an opportunity for all to join together and showcase a unified community.
Play
Fall has officially arrived, and the Depot to Depot Color Tour event is quickly approaching.

The tour is a self-guided day-trip that features the best local vistas for viewing fall foliage. The route is planned in advance and can be completed at any pace. Travel begins at either Visit Muskegon, located in the historic  Union Depot,  or the White Lake Area Chamber at the  Whitehall Dep ot. This year’s event includes prizes, refreshments and children’s activities.
Photo Credit: Joe Gee Photography
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THE STATS
Homes Sold
August 2018 = 264

Average Sale Price
August 2018 = $167,454
Labor Force
July 2018 = 80,100

Employment
July 2018 = 75,800
Top occupations for West Michigan in August, as advertised online, include Machine Operators, Registered Nurses, Retail Salespersons, Sales Representatives, Truck Drivers and Laborers.
Statistics provided by: Michigan Association of Realtors,  Michigan DTMB Bureau of Labor Market Information  and West Michigan Works!
CLICK HERE  to read the latest newsletter from  Muskegon Area First .