Connect. Invest. Grow.
The Local Impact Alliance invites you to discover the Nankin Mills Interpretive Center!
Take a Leisurely Drive Through Hines History: Edward Hines was a visionary in road development; the first mile of concrete road pavement in the world, the line down the center of the road, and more can be attributed to him. Parts of Hines Drive date to the 1920s, and this Wayne County Naturalist presentation will include many photos from these early times featuring vintage automobiles and families enjoying the park.
We will hear from a Wayne County Park Naturalist, enjoy a delicious sponsored lunch and end with a stroll through the Center.
Event Details:
Date: November 13
Time: 11:30 am- 1:00 pm
Location: Nankin Mills Interpretive Center, 33175 Ann Arbor Trail, Westland 48185
There is no fee for this event, but please register to let us know you are coming.
The Local Impact Alliance invites you to discover the PARC!
Since its inception as a community hub, the PARC has been brought back to life as a vibrant center for creativity, collaboration, and connection. Today, it serves as an arts hub and home to more than 50 organizations, including nonprofits, glassblowing studios, a commercial kitchen, and winter pickleball courts. There truly is something for everyone—and the building is humming with activity!
Join us for an informative and inspiring visit with PARC Director and community expert, Gail Grieger, Esq. Gail will share the story behind the PARC’s development, its impact on the community, and plans for the future.
You’ll also have the opportunity to tour this community treasure and meet representatives from some of the nonprofits and organizations that call the PARC home.
Come see what’s happening at the PARC and learn how this remarkable space is bringing people and organizations together!
JOIN US AT THE 17TH ANNUAL VETERANS' SUMMIT!
Always a popular FREE event, the 17th Annual Veterans' Summit is a must-attend for veterans, their famiies and those who support them!
Join us for an informative and meaningful time featuring Brigadier General Carol Ann Fausone and Kristina Derro, Esq., veteran benefit law expert. Our speakers will provide timely updates and practical guidance to help veterans and their families unerstand and navigate today's changing veteran benefits landscape.
Date: Tuesday, September 15
Time: 11:30 am - 1:30 pm
Location: Westland City Hall Ballroom, 36300 Warren Road, Westland
| REGISTER HERE! |
HELP US SPREAD THE WORD!
Know a veteran, family member, caregiver or organization or professional who could benefit from this information? Please share!
FREE: STEP BACK IN TIME AT THE WESTLAND HISTORICAL VILLAGE PARK
Join us to learn more about the fascinating regional history in Westland! Local historian, educator and Westland resident, Sharon Sullivan will share information about the region on Wednesday, May 13 at the Westland Historical Village Park.
Explore and absorb stories of how the community came to be.
Presented by the Westland Community Foundation, this is a FREE event, but registration is requested. Please register using the link below or call (734) 495-1200.
Westland Historical Village
857 N. Wayne Road, Westland
Wednesday, May 13, 2026
11:30 AM – 1:00 PM
With the warmer weather, now is the perfect time to start preparing your flower beds and vegetable gardens for spring planting. Join us Wednesday, April 15 at the Canton Public Library as experts from local nonprofit, Growing Hope provide valuable information about preparing gardens for a successful growing season.
Whether you’re planning to grow fresh vegetables or simply want a beautiful flower garden, this session will provide practical tips and guidance to help your garden grow.
Presented by the Community Foundation of Plymouth, this is a FREE event, but registration is requested. Please register using the link below or call Natalie McLaughlin at (734) 495-1200.
Canton Public Library, Community Room
*this is not a Canton Library sponsored event
Wednesday, April 15, 2026
11:30 AM – 1:00 PM
JOIN US at the Plymouth Historical Museum!
What do air rifles, trains and history have in common?
The Plymouth Historical Museum!
Join us for a fun and informative FREE Lunch & Learn where you’ll discover how local history connects to the stories we’re still making today and get a tour of this magical museum.
Learn from local history expert and Executive Director, Liz Kerstens!
With 19 years at the Museum and a Masters in State & Local history, Liz has a depth of knowledge known throughout the region!
Regional history comes alive followed by a tour of the Museum
Details:
When: Wednesday, March 18, 11:30 am- 1:00 pm
Where: Plymouth Historical Museum, 155 S. Main St., Plymouth 48170
Questions? Contact Natalie McLaughlin via email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or by calling 734-495-1200.
Upcoming Lunch & Learn Topics, 11:30 am- 1:00 pm:
April 15: Prep your gardens! Learn from Growing Hope Development Manager, Josiah Foster.
The Community Foundation of Plymouth is a member of the Local Impact Alliance
Your Local Impact Alliance brings you an evening event at the Bearded Lamb Brewery in Plymouth!* Come learn about the brewing process, connect with others, and enjoy some snacks from Old Village General Store. If you wish, test a flight of owner Ryan Lamb's favorite beers!
*MUST BE 21 OR OLDER TO ATTEND
Date: January 28, 2026
Location: Bearded Lamb, 149 Liberty St., Plymouth, 48170
Time: 5:30- 7 pm
There is no cost for the event, but if you wish to sample the flight, there is a $15 fee.
Register below.
Details:
Wednesday, November 19, 11:30 am - 1:00 pm
Village Arts Factory, 50755 Cherry Hill, Canton 48188
Questions? Contact Natalie McLaughlin via This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.or by calling 734-495-1200.
Ann Conklin is a dedicated parks and recreation leader with over 40 years of experience in municipal and nonprofit leadership. She served as Executive Director of the Michigan Recreation and Park Association, where she secured over $1.8 million in grant funding and led statewide advocacy efforts. Prior to that, she directed Canton Township’s Leisure Services Department, managing a $13 million budget, over 350 staff, and a wide range of community facilities and programs. Ann is recognized for her strategic vision, commitment to inclusivity, and strong community partnerships, earning honors such as the mParks Hall of Fame and the NRPA Gold Medal Award. Since her retirement Conklin has been a member of the Partnership for Arts and Humanities Board serving as a the Board lead for operations.
Details:
When: Wednesday, October 15, 11:30 am - 1:00 pm
Where: IKEA Restaurant, 41640 Ford Road, Canton
Questions? Contact Natalie McLaughlin via This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.or by calling 734-495-1200.
Check out our video to this event - 16th Annual Veterans' Summit
Local Impact Alliance Hosts 16th Annual Veterans’ Summit
The Local Impact Alliance proudly hosted its 16th Annual Veterans’ Summit in September, bringing together veterans, their families, and community members for a day of connection and support.
This year’s summit featured experts Carol Ann Fausone and Kristina Derro from Legal Help for Veterans, who shared the latest updates on veterans’ benefits and offered guidance on navigating today’s evolving landscape. Attendees had the opportunity to ask questions during an open Q & A session, ensuring they left with knowledge tailored to their unique needs.
At the Local Impact Alliance, we are deeply honored to host this annual gathering, and we are so grateful for the sacrifices these men and women have made in service to our country.
To all who joined us, thank you. And to all who serve and have served, your courage and dedication will always inspire us.
