Edison "Education is on"
overview
The purpose of the EDISON: EDucation IS ON 
project is to increase engagement of residents in the exploration, research, interpretation, and discussion of the history, heritage, and culture of Edison, Kalamazoo’s largest and most diverse neighborhoods. It is often defined by its challenges of high poverty, crime, health disparities, struggling academic achievement, and low literacy rates, instead of the opportunities and innovation that is taking place through the resilience and action of its people. This project envisions Edison as a learning neighborhood by interpreting its characteristics through a humanities lens that includes educational, historical, and cultural perspectives.
edison resident scholars
The Edison project is guided by the leadership of the Edison 
Resident Scholars. This passionate group of residents is committed to building a healthy, safe, and inviting community through participation and representation, and are dedicated to learning and leadership in the neighborhood. The goals of the Edison Resident Scholars are:
- Develop the Albert J. White Literacy Trail along the Portage Creek, which provides literacy, health, and history while improving walking access and safety.
- Create a support network of residents through neighboring activities and accessing community resources to remove barriers.
- Increase knowledge and awareness of the neighborhood’s history, people, and opportunities.
The Edison Resident Scholars were named as the KLC’s 2024 Literacy Advocates of the Year for their outstanding efforts toward the enhancement of Edison. From a historic recognition of Albert J. White to a Photovoice & Oral Histories exhibit, to the creation of Literacy Lane, they are proving what community-engaged work looks like at the neighborhood level.
Join us! 
Come to a monthly meeting to learn more about what’s happening in Edison and with the Resident Scholars:
Third Thursdays
5:30 p.m.-7:00 p.m.
420 E. Alcott St.
Refreshments provided
Download the Orientation Guide
Questions? Email us!
Join our Facebook group
project partners
The EDISON “EDucation IS ON” initiative, the Albert J. White Literacy Trail, and Literacy Lane are graciously supported by several agencies and community partners, including the Michigan Humanities Council, Goodwill Industries of Southwestern Michigan, Western Michigan University, Community Homeworks, Edison Neighborhood Association, and Kalamazoo County Health & Community Services Department. We are thankful to our funders: Arts Council of Greater Kalamazoo, United Way of South Central Michigan, Dorothy U. Dalton Foundation, ENNA Foundation, Irving S. Gilmore Foundation, LISC Kalamazoo, Old National Bank Foundation, W.S. & Lois VanDalson Foundation, and the Institute of Museum and Library Services through the Library of Michigan.
