Ypsilanti MI
8-02-2026 8:00pm

Finding My Way Back to My Community

Finding My Way Back

How a Journey to Kansas City Renewed My Purpose and Reminded Me That Community Matters

Dear Friends,

For the past few weeks, I've been living under what felt like dark clouds. I experienced a season of burnout that forced me to step away from a few activities that had begun causing me overwhelming anxiety.

I always look forward to sharing good news and uplifting stories with you. But even as a journalist, I am not immune to the weight of the world. The stories we cover, the challenges happening around us, and the uncertainty so many people face can take a toll on our mental and emotional well-being. At times, it can feel paralyzing.

Then there are the personal challenges we all share—rising costs for gas, groceries, insurance, and the everyday pressures of simply trying to keep moving forward.

If you've been wondering where I've been, thank you for your patience. Thank you for waiting for me.

Today, I can honestly say that I am feeling much better.

One of the experiences that helped restore my spirit was my recent trip to Kansas City, where I attended the Kauffman FastTrac and 1MC Summit. It was exactly what I needed. The conference reminded me that many of the things I've been working so hard to build are already making a difference.

Being surrounded by passionate entrepreneurs, storytellers, and community leaders who openly shared their experiences reminded me why I started this journey in the first place. We learned from one another, laughed together, and encouraged each other to keep going.

Beyond the conference, I explored the city by walking through local markets, visiting museums, enjoying some unforgettable Kansas City BBQ ribs, and admiring the beautiful fountains that make the city so unique. Every experience added another spark of inspiration.

Over the coming days, I'll be sharing stories and photographs from my trip—moments that touched my heart and reminded me that hope can be found in unexpected places.

One of the greatest highlights was meeting and speaking with Dr. DeAngela Burns-Wallace, President and CEO of the Kauffman Foundation. Her leadership, wisdom, and vision were deeply inspiring and helped recharge my spirit. I also learned that she recently published a new book in March 2026, and I'm looking forward to sharing more about it with you soon.

As I return with renewed energy, I'm also asking for your help.

The Ypsilanti Press continues to grow, and I cannot do this work alone. During the next 30 days, I am looking for:

  • Volunteer writers who love telling community stories.
  • People who can help promote the newspaper and expand our reach.
  • A graphic designer to help strengthen our visual storytelling.
  • Supporters who can assist with fundraising so we can continue serving our community.

If you know a student, retiree, creative professional, or anyone looking to make a meaningful impact, I would love to connect with them.

Please also visit my LinkedIn and Instagram pages to see more of the work we are doing through the Ypsilanti Press and our community service efforts.

This newspaper has always been about more than news. It has been about people, hope, and preserving the stories that matter.

I believe our best days are still ahead, but I need my community beside me.

Thank you for believing in me, for supporting this mission, and for reminding me that even after difficult seasons, there is always a path forward.

With gratitude,

April Christian- Davis
Publisher, Ypsilanti Press

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