Episode Details

In this episode of Muskegon Rising, host Aaron Maike sits down with Meredith Smillie of Bethany Christian Services to explore how strengthening families directly supports student success, workforce stability, and economic growth in West Michigan. The conversation highlights Bethany’s work in foster care, adoption, behavioral health, and refugee services—and how flexible donor support helps families overcome barriers like transportation, childcare, and housing. Learn how family stability fuels educational outcomes, why human services careers are in high demand, and how nonprofits like Bethany partner across Muskegon County to build a stronger, more resilient local economy. Produced by Muskegon Rising, a service of the Muskegon Rotary Club