| 2008 Ministry Grants Report |
In 2008 Classis disbursed $98,750 to congregations and organizations to
promote holistic evangelism and discipleship. Here are some of the results
achieved with these grants:
Boston Square CRC
2008 Grant: $2,750
2008 Objective: 10 Boston Square youth develop quality relationships with
children as measured by a survey of the youth; 5 neighborhood youth help lead
VBS
Contact: Jay Blankespoor: jaybscrc@sbcglobal.net
1. In what way has the objective been achieved?
We began the summer with a leadership-training retreat. We had hoped to go
camping for this event, but because of the threat of severe weather, we stayed in
the church basement instead. We had 12 Boston Square youth and one
neighborhood youth at this event. It went quite well, despite the last minute
changes, and the youth grew in their faith and in their understanding of leadership.
A few weeks later, we led vacation Bible school with a dozen Boston Square youth
helping and four neighborhood youth also leading. The youth were "shepherds"--
guiding the children from station to station. They all reported enjoying getting to
know the kids as one of the highlights of the week. It was a pleasure to me to see
how they grew in working with children--one high schooler in particular had his
shoe tie-dyed by one of the youth, but instead of seeking retaliation, handled it
through the proper channels.
We've also had good results as we begun a bi-weekly Bible study this fall as a
follow-up.
2. Tell a story of a changed life as a result of the program.
We decided at the last minute to include some of our seventh-graders in a few of
the leadership-training events. They soon found themselves in a strange position
of both being leaders and being in one of the classes for VBS. We had one other
kid who joined us for a seventh-grade VBS class (usually we cut it off at sixth
grade). Over the course of the week, it was impressive to see how they began to
understand their role as not only learning, but also helping to bring the other
seventh-grader along. On the last day of class, we talked about Jesus Christ and
his sacrifice for our sins. We asked how we get to heaven and Jaylon, the other
seventh grader, said by being good. Others in the class began to ask how we
know when we're good enough and that led to a conversation about the grace of
God and the love of Jesus. At the end of the class, Jaylon said he loved Jesus, he
thought about everything differently, and on his way out, he drew a cross on the
chalkboard with a large heart in the middle of it. It was powerful for the other
seventh-graders to see how their witness made a difference.
3. Describe something about this program that the churches of southeast Grand
Rapids can lift to God in prayer.
We are still trying to find ways to maintain relationships with the neighborhood
youth leaders throughout the school year. We've had difficulty integrating them
into the usual events of the youth ministry.
Calvin CRC
2008 Grant: $6,000
2008 Objective: 100-150 youth attend field trips and events such as basketball
and Bible study
Contact: Joel Copley
Introduction. 2008 has seen real growth in opportunities for Calvin Church and
Eastown Ministries to bless and challenge the community youth that we care for
and are mutually concerned about.
Field Trips
An important emphasis of this ministry is to spend an extended period of time with
kids from the neighborhood, in alternate settings, out of the city. We have done
several outings this past year that helped us get to know God and each other a
little better. Back in February we took 40 teens out to Lowell to have a lock in. We
spent the night roller-skating and bowling and finished the night back the Eastown
Ministry Center watching a movie while 15 of the teen boys went over to Calvin
Church to play basketball. We also took two trips out to Branch Adventures in
Saranac, MI. Here 40 kids (in two outings were able to worship out in the woods
through song, and explore God’s world through canoeing and obstacle courses.
Towards the end of the summer we took 36 teens to Michigan Adventure to have a
wet and wild time. It is always important when adults and kids are laughing
together and making eye contact.
In order to supervise and enrich these experiences we had a number of
volunteers from Eastown Ministries, supplemented with a small yet growing
number of folks from Calvin Church.
Vacation Bible School
The Vacation Bible School at Eastown Ministry Center saw 78 kids (52 on one
day) walk in to hear the gospel, sing songs of worship, eat a great treat, and
reflect on the Biblical stories through a meaningful craft. This task took a lot of
effort and helping hands from both Eastown Ministries and Calvin Church to
promote, coordinate details, and execute. It was an intense week and helped use
really see how we are all part of God’s body.
Calvin Church also helps kick off the week with an Ice Cream social for the
neighborhood.
Homework House
Across the alley from the Eastown Ministries center is a newly remodeled home
rightly called “The Homework House.” The Homework House was a foreclosed
properly purchased by an Eastown Ministries board member who masterfully
remodeled and designed it to facilitate after school tutoring for K-12 students. The
majority of the students walk to the house from nearby Campus and South East
Academic Center. They are provided an after school snack while they receive help
with their homework. The house is furnished with several computers connected
to the internet, a nice size library, and two tutoring rooms. The Homework House
is open Monday through Thursday and serves 12-18 students.
Megan Aupperlee, who lives in the neighborhood, does a great job as coordinator
of the Homework House. The tutors who serve come regularly from both Eastown
Ministries and Calvin Church. We rejoice over the extended number of volunteers
from the church who are directly involved and excited about this ministry to youth.
Thursday’s Fun Night and Teen Night
Every Thursday night (except for two nights in the month of July) Eastown
Ministries doors are open between 5:30 and 8:00 to the youth of the
neighborhood. The first hour serves kids between the ages of 4-11. Kids come in
to sing worship songs, pray, hear the gospel, play games, and win prizes. These
“Fun Nights” are full of excitement during all stages of the hour. This is an
important time to provide a Christian community to these young image bearers--to
both “talk the talk” with the gospel we speak and “walk the walk” with the love,
kindness and respect we show.
The Teen Night follows with a similar format except the message we bring gets a
lot more real and urgent. We try to understand the lives these kids lead and how
God is working in order to help them understand and receive the transforming
power of His salvation for their life and world. We believe that Thursday night has
a very positive and redeeming influence on the lives of the neighborhood kids who
come through the doors of the Eastown Ministry Center.
A few members of Calvin Church have spoken at both the kids and teen times and
as there is greater exposure of Eastown Ministries with Calvin Church, we hope
there will be more regular volunteers to add to those who currently give up their
Thursday evenings for this important ministry.
Eastown Teen Boys Basketball
We often have 15 to 20 who boys want to play basketball. The Basketball program
has been an important addition to our teen ministry by increasing their motivation
and accountability to the gospel. It also provides a safe space to model Kingdom
values in the arenas of body, sport and competition.
In order for the boys to play ball they must attend Teen Night where they have an
opportunity each week to hear a message from the Bible. They also must learn a
Bible verse and say it 6 times to an adult in order to sign up to play basketball.
This provides a great opportunity for adult leaders to interact and witness to teens
at a one-to-one level. We sometimes have over 20 boys who want to play eagerly
reciting Bible verses. This fall our program has served 35-40 teens every
Thursday night.
Some of the boys come primarily to play basketball but are exposed to the Gospel
message and challenged in regards to their relationship to the Lord. For some of
the boys their first contact with Eastown Ministries was because of someone
inviting them to play basketball. Most of these teens are not “church kids” and
have had little or no exposure to the Gospel.
We are continually making adjustments to make this program better. Occasionally
things come up that we must try to correct. We need to remember that we are
dealing with inner city kids from broken homes that have little or no family support.
The shared ministry between Eastown Ministries and Calvin Church is trying to be
a support system to teens in the neighborhood and the basketball program plays
an important support role in this endeavor.
Other Miscellaneous:
Calvin Church seeks to encourage, support and learn from the gospel ministry at
Eastown in other ways: through diaconal offerings and budget support, through
counsel (two members of our church are on the Eastown Ministry board) and
through other creative ways of assistance (eg. providing facility space and
promoting a recent Eastown Ministry fundraiser or when items are needed, such
as a laptop, the word gets out and it is donated).
Eastown Ministries has also been helpful to Calvin Church as the directors there
provide prayer for Calvin Church and personal support for the volunteers from our
church. Additionally, when Calvin has had ministry events for the young people we
directly serve (through our VBS or Neighbors Night), Eastown Ministries has been
open to providing games from its own facility and also promoting these ministries
with its youth.
Conclusion
The collaborative effort between Calvin Church and Eastown ministries to reach
the hearts and lives of Eastown youth has been fruitful and seeks to be even more
so. The funds from the Home Missions grant have been instrumental in
enhancing the Kingdom —from computers for the Homework House, or paying for
the Field trip events, or paying liability insurance for all the above—these funds
have contributed to the impact we are able to mutually make. Continuations of
these funds will help support the momentum of these ministries as well as
provide new opportunities for evangelism, discipleship and Christian leadership
in the name of our Lord Jesus.
Eastern Avenue CRC
2008 Grant: $5,000
2008 Objective: Boys remain in or graduate from school, interact more positively,
accept Christ, exhibit fewer law violations and at-risk behaviors such as drugs,
alcohol, and premarital sex; Girls participate regularly, complete life skills
curriculum, interact more positively, accept Christ
Contact: Arlan Palmer: apalmer@wedgwood.org
Report on Objectives:
The WEB boys remain in or graduate from school, interact more positively, accept
Christ, exhibit fewer law violations and at-risk behaviors such as drugs, alcohol,
and premarital sex.
8 of the 11 youth who come to club are currently enrolled in regular or alternative
education programs. One of our youth is currently in his sophomore year at
Community college. Unfortunately three of the youth are not enrolled in any
educational system at the moment.
Of the 11 youth, one is currently in a juvenile facility out of state and will return
within a month or so. One of our 19 year olds was recently arrested for a drug
related charge. 8 of the 11 report no use of marijuana or alcohol. The other four
have talked openly and honestly concerning their drug usage.
Issues related to premarital sex. 9 of the 11 indicate little to no sexual activity. One
of my club members did become a father within the last two months. A unique
story and victory in this area is when one of my club members called me and
asked me what advice I could give him about his relationship with his girl friend.
Here was his dilemma. He said that she was a Christian and wanted to stop
having sex outside of marriage. The student wanted to know should he break up
with her because of that. I asked my club member, what type of woman God
would want him to marry and be with the rest of his life. Would he like someone
who has Christian values or some one who is willing to give it up to any one? I
am glad to report that he did not break up with her and per his report they are
remain sexually abstinent
Goal related to spiritual growth and relationship to Christ. Six of the eleven show
that a relationship with God is very important. The youth have been challenged
through out the year about their spiritual growth and relationship with Christ.
Successes in the Program
Quinton and Darius completed their first year in College. He has been asked a
few times to come back and speak to our inner city youth who attended our
Tutoring program. Quinton is a strong leader. He spoke at our 10 year WEB
Tutoring Celebration in May. I was very proud to have Quinton and Gregg work at
Camp Tall Turf this summer. What a blessing to know that the two of them were
surrounded by people who loved the word of God. Each of them are planning to
work their again if given another chance.
Another major success was having all of my club members finish their summer
work program. It was great to work with Project COOL and Building Bridges Clean
Slate. Each student was challenged to grow in many areas. They were exposed
to many speakers and different occupations.
We did attempt to work with our kids on budgeting this summer which helped us
to expose the youth to money management. Even though were not able to
complete our sessions for the summer, the principles are good for them to learn.
Another success, to highlight is that club members who have turned 18 and 19
years of age, are still involved with Teens on Track. Like I mentioned before
Quinton has given back to the club by speaking to other teens in Eastern Avenue
Church programs. He has also volunteered to go on activities as a support
person for me this summer. Quinton received great praise at our water tubing
activating by being very responsible for cleaning up after the other guys without
asking. Justin also continues to come to club. He has not gotten his GED or
diploma but he seems to realize that club is positive thing for him to be involved
in. He turned 19 this summer but he told me he was not going to stop coming to
club which shows the strong relational aspect of our ministry with TEENS.
Barriers/Challenges/Prayer
This summer one of our club members was put in juvenile detention. His name is
Darnell. This was very disappointing because this Youngman is the youngest
brother of Darryl Weaver who murdered in 2007. He continued to violate the rules
of probation and would not come home at night. This is very troubling concerning
the poor choices that this Youngman is making. He has been in a juvenile
detention facility since June of 2008. He should be getting released pretty soon.
One of the good blessings is that he is working on his educational goals while he
is there. Pray for this Youngman. I believe he has not dealt with the death of his
brother. I have to be reminded that he is only 14 years old.
Another challenge is what to do with kids who have turned 19 and have not
reached any of their goals, i.e. a high school diploma or GED. Justin Jackson is
Youngman who has been in club since he was 7 years old. (He states he lied
about his age and was 6 years old when he started). I have done my best to
connect him with resources like Goodwill industries, Building Bridges Clean
Slate, and Grand Rapids Job Corps. He is a good worker but certain aspects of
his personality and some medical concerns get in the way. He is a Youngman
that also struggles with some drug use i.e. marijuana. He sees nothing wrong
with it and he is hoping the state of Michigan will legalize it.
He is also the Youngman who was picked up on a drug related charge just before
Christmas. He is out on bail and attending club. This has give he and I some
good conversations about integrity, drug use etc. Pray that he gets accepted into
Job Corps and completes his education.
First CRC
2008 Grant: $5,000
2008 Objective: 250 people will be helped in navigating the system of assistance;
100 people will be ministered to spiritually; 12 families are more financially
independent; 10-15 individuals will be empowered to minister; classes will be
developed; four partherships will be developed
Contact: Mark Van Drunen: mark@firstcrc.org
First, we want to thank Classis Grand Rapids East so much for granting us the
seed money to start Bates Place community center. During the past three years
Bates Place has grown from an idea to a reality and a key part of the ministry of
First Christian Reformed Church in our community. We are open Tuesday through
Friday in the mornings and seek to “Provide those in need with spiritual and
practical solutions.” In the past year approximately 135 people have walked
through our doors. In addition to this we have served and had contact with over
500 people through food trucks and community meals. We have been or currently
are in various degrees of mentoring relationships with 25-30 of these individuals.
We have also provided insight or direction in spiritual and practical areas to
approximately 75 people over the course of this past year. Some of these people
visit only once, others are at Bates Place almost every day.
Formal Mentoring and Classes
We have continued our Bates Place 911 (based on Psalm 9:11) over the last year
with some individuals although this is currently less formal than we would prefer.
We ran a financial education class and we are planning another for January-
March in conjunction with church members. We also started a Bible Study that
meets on Wednesday and is followed by a meal which has good attendance. God
is using this to teach and encourage people in their walk with Jesus. This is often
followed by another Bible study Wednesday evening during the Church Midweek
program.
Relationships with Other Agencies
As do many agencies, we work with ACCESS and have some contact with Baxter
Community Center. We are currently investigating a relationship with a larger
organization that would better enable us to minister to men who have recently be
releaseD from Prison. This will likely take up much of our development work in
2009. We also continue to strive to keep a strong connection between Bates Place
and the community as well as the worship at First Church. We believe that people’
s chances of making better choices is exponentially increased when they are
embraced and become a part of a community of faith.
A Story
Many people come through the doors of Bates Place in a given week. Some stay
for a while. Some only come once. Other come back often and gradually make
changes in their lives. But the best things happen when we are able to develop
real relationships with each other. Last summer of couple from another city
moved onto Bates Street with their three kids. Within a day, they had stopped by
the church and Bates Place to see if they could find some help with food and
figuring out how things work in Grand Rapids. Bryan helped them in various ways
and they also immediately joined the financial education class as well as
attended the Bible studies that were offered. Over time they also started attending
the church on a more regular basis and although it is different from what they
were used too, they felt welcomed and blessed as they grew to be part of the
community. Recently they completed the new members class and, Lord willing,
will become new members in January, along with the appropriate baptisms. The
man’s brother-in-law recently also joined them from the other city and made it
rather clear that this man never “messed with” church like that back home. And so
we have had the opportunity to get to know a great family as well as an opportunity
to mentor five people in the knowledge of Christ and how to follow him. This
journey obviously continues for all of us and we covet your prayers for us, for this
family and for all the others who we come into contact with during the year.
Prayer Request:
Each day is a difference experience at Bates Place. Some days two people stop
by just to chat for a bit or use the phone, other days there many people with deep
and pressing needs whom we are privileged to engage in a conversation about
following Jesus.
The biggest prayer request is that we continue to grow in the knowledge of how
best to minister in this community. We have many people visiting and we feel that
the best response to their needs is to be willing to build relationships and walk
with them for a while. But we also see a need to develop more structure so that
we are better equipped to train and disciple those who want to grow in their faith
and become a more integral part of the church community as well as a
contributing member of society. This is our hope and this is our prayer.
Neland CRC
2008 Grant: $8,000
2008 Objective: young men move forward socially, spiritually, personally
Contact: Pearl Banks: pbanks@neland.org
No issue needed greater attention than the salvation, education and
understanding of our
inner city males. At Neland the alternative to mis-education, missed opportunities,
hopelessness
and incarceration was clear.
We looked to achieve the following objectives:
The grant from Classis Grand Rapids East was such a jump start to the program
that we took it as an “Almighty Amen” and went for it.
Slowly and wisely council said do it and Elijah Libbett a young man who spent 15+
years in prison hit the neighborhood with flyers starting the program in August 07.
Greg Boven, a building contractor, has come alongside of Elijah with a patient
spirit, stabilizing the program and teaching woodworking classes.
Mike Spearman faithfully runs the basketball program guiding the young men into
team effort. Nick Bierma teaches Tuesday night bible study and Tish Patterson
prays for each attendee.
1. In what way has the objective been achieved?
The Neland Avenue CRC sign at the corner of Alexander and Alto was once home
to a group calling themselves the “A” street gang. There is no more gang activity
there. The strength training room is used weekly by both young men from the
neighborhood and Neland Avenue CRC members. The woodworking shop is
stocked with state of the art equipment for the young men to learn on. The Young
Men made 19 Adirondack chairs which they sold and gained monies for the
program and more supplies.
The young men have attended 24 Life Skills and Self Development sessions
taught by Earlina Libbett of Jubilee Jobs. The male nursing students from Calvin
College taught the young men about personal and social health issues. The
young men created their own rules regulating language and behavior. They also
enforce their rules.
The program has increased from 3 to 4 nights per week. The additional night is
for men 35 years and older only. Thanks to the generosity of Baxter Community
Center the program meets 2 nights in their gym for full court challenges and
games. At Baxter Community Center, Thursday night is for the 35 and older group
and Friday remains for those 16 and up.
Through additional small short term grants, 12 of the young men received
employment for the summer. Jubilee Jobs has granted a weekly stipend to 6
young men while they learn woodworking this fall. The young men at times spend
more time asking questions than playing ball. They ask biblical questions which
lead to life questions.
2. Tell a story of a changed life as a result of the program.
“Changed Lives”, this story is not yet ready to be told. Our young men who are 16
and older come to the program because the doors are open, there are people
who are glad to see them, interested in them, and believe in them.
Kamron, lost his support system when his Aunt was killed. Kamron is resilient.
He asks each question more than one way because he doesn’t want to
misunderstand anything. Long after you have answered him, he stands there
thinking how can he phrase the question so we both are unmistakably clear.
Kamron is at Neland Avenue CRC early and daily. Kamron has made the choice
that this is where he would rather be. His younger brother made a different choice
for the streets and drugs. Kamron is a gifted artist and not only does he soak up
all that Neland can offer, he is taking art classes at Kendall College at a members
expense. May Kamron always seek his answers at a place like Neland Avenue
CRC and may God always provide someone to gently guide.
Deale wants to be accepted by the young men of the street, but comes to church
instead. He would like to be out there but he knows he’s not bad enough. Deale is
one of the reasons we start programs.
He is the young man who asked for a mentor, because he doesn’t want to grow
up being the one begging. He wants to be able to give. Deale is lazy, and unless
challenged he won’t use his photographic memory for the good. Deale is willing
to carry the load when help is needed. He is compassionate beyond measure, but
he is reluctant to let that side show. He is our best recruiter of other young men.
“Come and see”, he offers that invitation so freely to others, who have joined and
stayed with the program. Pray that God will claim his heart as he continues to
claim others.
Darius came to Elijah, because after his mother and stepfather were divorced, his
stepfather told him in no uncertain terms that he was never, ever to step his (^&*
(*$) self to his door. Having been the only father Darius ever knew he was broken.
His mother brought him to Elijah. Greg began mentoring Darius. Darius is
charismatic. He draws everyone in. He easily gives of himself and recognizes
needs in others. When we were leaving Montana, we had to leave behind a
special needs young man that clearly got on all of the youths last nerve. I said to
Darius, “Adam’s in the car leaving for home, go over and say goodbye to him.”
Darius walked up to the car and said, “Adam, You forgot something.” Adam
replied “what?” Darius told him, “You forgot to give me my hug.” Adam jumped
out of the car gave him a hug and went to sit by everyone else. His mother couldn’t
get him to leave the group and was so very grateful that Adam had been accepted.
All of our young men are considered slow by the educational system. Kamron, the
artist, Deale with a photographic memory and Darius, broken and spilled out yet
carrying the heart of God. Our young men need a system of support. A community,
a school, a government that values their contribution to society and comes
together to make sure they have an opportunity to do just that; contribute. Pray for
that and for God’s unforgettable claim on each one of there lives, not forgetting all
our young men.
Baxter Community Center
2008 Grant: $9,000
2008 Objective: 1500 individuals served by food and clothing pantry; 15 people are
served by Freedom in Your Finances series; 1800 people are served by tax
preparation
Contact: Melanie Beelen: melanieb@baxtercommunitycenter.org
Thank you for your confidence in Baxter Community Center and its programs.
Below are the answers you requested:
1. To date, 1,562 individuals have been served by our Market Place (food and
clothing pantry), 15 people participated in our Freedom in Your Finances classes
(10 graduated), and approximately 1700 individuals were able to have their
income taxes prepared free of charge.
2. Alice is no stranger to Baxter Community Center. She has needed most of
the services that Baxter offers, however she had not heard about the Freedom in
Your Finance Class until recently. Alice had been laid off from her job. When she
started attending the class, Alice had been paying bills late, using funds allocated
for bills to help others, and eating out more than necessary. Alice’s attitude about
her finances changed throughout her time in the class. She began to discover that
her “only $25 a month” bills really added up quickly. After being matched with a
financial freedom coach, the partnership in thinking and planning helped to
establish new ideas for Alice to implement. Together they learned trips to the
coffee shop can quickly add up to over $50 a month. Alice has learned that her
tendency to pay bills late can hinder her credit score, while paying on time, or
early, can help raise her credit. Since graduating from the class, Alice has been
able to pay down her bills, start a saving account, and manage her finances
better. She has done all this while unemployed. Baxter is proud of the work and
choices Alice is making. Recently Alice decided to use her time to volunteer at
Baxter. She is an encouragement to those around her. (Name has been
changed.)
3. Prayer: That God will open doors to the churches around the neighborhood
to give me the opportunity to speak to the deacons of those churches. I want to
give them an opportunity for them to be trained on how to administer to their
members about what God says about money and how he holds His people
accountable to what He has given them. Most of our clients attend these churches
and I want to assist them in helping achieve those goals. Please have the
churches from southeast Grand Rapids pray for those who will be working with
the income tax program this year. Schedulers and tax preparers will need to have
God’s guidance as they speak with the clients to set appointments, confirm
needed documents are found and brought in, enter the correct information into the
computer and relay the outcomes. This is a very large, labor intensive program
that starts the end of January and continues through April 15. Pray for staff and
volunteers to practice wisdom and patience.
Campus Chapel in Ann Arbor
2008 Grant: $5,500
2008 Objective: Social justice is promoted; partnerships are developed; small
group ministry is developed
Contact: Rolf Bouma: rbouma@umich.edu
Camp Tall Turf
2008 Grant: $7,000
2008 Objective: youth show indications of serving others, acquisition of life and
career skills (from proposal submitted July 2006)
Contact: Jack Kooyman: jack.kooyman@gmail.com
1. What goals our outcomes have been achieved by the program and for how
many people?
Camp Tall Turf’s SALT program is essentially divided in to 3 different programs,
the Leader In Training (LIT) program, Sunday night Bible studies, and a summer
Adventure Camp. Our program year actually starts at the beginning of the
summer, so this report will reflect the 2007-08 programs in the Spring of 2008
and the 2008-09 program year with the summer and fall of 08.
In May of 2008 we wrapped up our school-year LIT program and Sunday night
Bible study. Through both of these programs we served 20 youth. Out of these 20
youth 85% reported that they experienced the personal rewards of serving others
& their community. 78% of SALT participants reported that they will choose to be
positive role models by becoming involved in programs or activities with their
peers and/or younger children.
In the summer of 2008 we served 73 high school students through our Adventure
Camp. Adventure Camp is a 6-day session of camp consisting of a mix of trips off
camp property and activities and classes at camp. Each evening there is a
general session and an in depth devotional time in their cabins. 14 of those 73
also participated in the summer LIT program. 100% of the LITs responding to the
survey about the summer program said that the LIT program helped them to
increase their skill and knowledge in problem solving and decision making. 86%
said the program helped them increase in the knowledge of both the character
traits of leadership as well as understanding types of leadership.
2. Tell a story of a changed life as a result of the program
The Impact Camp Tall Turf has had on Me
By RaeNosa Hudnell
Since I have become a part of the Leader in Training team at Tall Turf, I have been
affected by this ministry tremendously. The things that I have been taught and the
skills I have acquired will benefit me for years to come.
I am in year two of the school year LIT program and it has been challenging yet
rewarding. Here at Tall Turf you are challenged to be better than what you think
you can actually be. Here you’re allowed to achieve what God has for you, and if
you’re not so sure what His plan is for you, you’re given the opportunity to find out.
This summer the LITs took a trip to Mississippi. While there, we worked with the
Perkins Foundation. This foundation is all about community development and
working with youth and their families. The whole experience for me was not only
uplifting and insightful, but it brought confirmation to my prayers.
I am in my senior year of high school and college is quickly approaching. I had
been talking with family and friends about what I wanted to do as far as my career
is concerned. Everyone that I spoke with said the same thing, "You need to get a
high paying job and make lots of money." Money is important, but I want to be
happy.
I have always loved writing and teaching, but it wasn't until this past summer
working with Camp Tall Turf that I had a sudden desire to work with the people in
my community in order to better it. One day while in Mississippi I talked with my
mentor and shared with her how I had been feeling for quite some time . . . that I
had a real desire to help the people in my neighborhood. I was very impressed
with the movement there [John M. Perkins Foundation at the Spencer Perkins
Center in Jackson, MS] and would love to see such things implemented in my
own community.
When I say that being there was confirmation of my prayers, I say that for good
reason. At that time there were a lot of decisions that I needed to make, and I was
really struggling. While in Jackson [Mississippi] I got a chance to realize what was
important to me and what I wanted to do with myself. I have now decided that I am
probably going to be involved in community development. I would have never even
come to that decision if it weren't for Tall Turf. It would seem like that dream would
be so far away, but it’s actually right within my reach.
Part of my work as an LIT is preparing a legacy project that I would like to leave our
community. When I was told that, I thought, “What a coincidence.” and “What are
the odds of that!?” To be able to achieve desires and goals I have with the help of
Tall Turf is truly a blessing. It is something I could never have experienced
anywhere else.
3. Please describe something about this program that the churches of
southeast Grand Rapids can lift to God in prayer.
The churches can be praying for the leadership team, specifically for a male
mentor for the LIT program for the summer. Also they can continue to pray for the
teens to make positive choices and feel surrounded by the love and presence of
God!
Campus Directions
2008 Grant: $12,000
2008 Objective: one weekly large group meeting is held at 3 institutions; 11
weekly Bible study groups meet at 3 institutions; 21 Bible study leaders are
trained at 3 institutions
Contact: Harry Lew: harrywlew@gmail.com
GRAND RAPIDS COMMUNITY COLLEGE. Last semester we had over 60 students
involved with 5 Bible students. We spent the first week of classes in January
recruiting for new students. These last two weeks we have begun our weekly
Bible studies. So far we have six small groups ready to go. Please pray that they
go well and the chapter cohere as a large group as well.
KENDALL COLLEGE OF ART & DESIGN. We have about 40 members with over
30 attending regularly at the large group. The chapter has done well "penetrating
the campus," making it presence felt in various aspects of campus life. Please
pray that the students are more intentional in outreach and evangelism.
GRAND VALLEY STATE UNIVERSITY - DOWNTOWN CAMPUS. We have been
trying to reestablish a Nurses Christian Fellowship chapter. A former GRCC
chapter president has enrolled in the GVSU nursing program. Please pray that
she will find a faculty member willing to sponsor a NCF group and that fellow
nursing students are willing to join.
CALVIN COLLEGE. The chapter exists to promote the cause of missions on
campus. On February 10 and 11, they will host their annual missions fair, a mini-
Urbana. Two dozen missionary agencies will sending representatives and setting
up booths in the library lobby. Please pray for their safe travel to Grand Rapids and
success in recruiting Calvin students for career and short term missions.
CALVIN THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY. The Missions Club at Calvin Seminary is also
an InterVarsity affiliated group. They sent 14 seminarians to the last Urbana, the
most ever for the school. Please pray the club will think ahead and promote this
year's Urbana.
FACULTY MINISTRY. Some of our Calvin, Cornerstone, GVSU, Hope, and Kendall
professors have joined together to plan a scholarly conference on C.S. Lewis and
the Inklings to be held at Calvin College from March 26 to 28, The president of
Kendall has committed $1500 to our project, but we have to raise an additional
$1500 to cover expenses. Please pray that our financial needs will be met and
that we will get a good turnout to the conference.
A STORY. When we set up the right conditions, evangelism can happen easily
and the Lord will bless in His own sovereign manner. My strategy at Kendall
College of Art and Design has been to gather Christian students and make them
feel good about being Christians AND artists. They receive many messages from
the art establishment (artists, galleries, museums, schools, and critics) and
sometimes from the church that doing art today and being a Christian are
incompatible. Along with our program of Bible study and prayer on campus, we
invite alumni and others to come and speak about how they integrate their
Christian faith and commitment with their successful professional career as
artists. We also promote wholesome social activities to which our students can
invite their nonchristian friends and show that Christians can have fun!
students weekly. Darin, a sophomore illustration major from Redford, Michigan in
the Detroit area, has been coming because of friends that he had made with
several of our members. Knowing that our group has been attracting
nonchristians to our meetings and socials, I talked with the student leaders about
possibly having them give a short testimony during a meeting from time to time
about Christ working in their lives. Overhearing the discussion, Darin afterwards
asked Ellen, our chapter president, what I meant by "testimony." Ellen used this
opportunity to share the Gospel with him. Darin then confessed that he was not
ready to become a Christian, but he will think about it over the vacation break.
When he came back this year, Darin announced to Ellen and his Kendall
Christian Fellowship friends that he had become a Christian! While at home he
went to the only Christian he knew in his family, his grandmother, and when she
reinforced what Ellen had already told him, he then decided that he was ready.
Darin continues to come regularly to all our activities and attends church with his
Kendall Christian Fellowship friends. Last night I took a group of our Kendall
students including Darin to the Prodigal Son art exhibit at Calvin College. Darin
can now say that he has experienced the forgiveness and reconciliation with his
Heavenly Father.
SPECIFIC PRAYER FOR TWO STUDENTS. Two nonchristian students I've been
cultivating friendships with that I would like prayer for:
Xin (pronounced "Shin") is a first year Kendall student originally from China. A shy,
introvertish digital design major just happened early last semester to be studying
in the same room we use for our large group meetings. When the InterVarsity
students arrived to start the meeting, she decided to stay and she has been
coming regularly ever since. She is attracted to the friendliness of our students
and the Christian message, but I don't think she has gotten to the point of willing
to commit her life to Christ. Please pray that she does.
Jinsoo is a senior Ferris student originally from Korea who is taking courses at
GRCC this semester. He is a political activist and an "advocate for the voiceless in
Africa," having been there twice on humanitarian ventures. Raised Buddhist,
Jinsoo is "experimenting with religion" and is intrigued by the good work of
Christian missionaries in Africa. Please pray that our dialogue will continue well
and that he too will commit himself to Christ.
Criminal Justice Chaplaincy
2008 Grant: $11,000
2008 Objective: 215 individuals are served by Horticulture Therapy; 25 individuals
are mentored; 300 individuals are served by Life Skills Education
Contact: Jim Vander Schaaf: cjcministry@sbcglobal.net
(adapted from the CJC regular quarterly report by Tom Bulten)
Objectives
In 2008 Criminal Justice Chaplaincy has served 252 individuals through
Horticultural Therapy, 33 individuals are being mentored, and 239 individuals
through Life Skills Education.
Story
Individuals in the Horticultural Therapy program write:
"It was great to get some exercise and enjoy the sun and nature."
"I love doing things with plants. This is something my son and I can do for
Christmas gifts."
"It brought me back to my childhood and that was nice."
"I feel proud of myself for completing something."
"I really enjoyed working with the women I was teamed up with."
Prayer
1. Pray for our Mentor Orientation and Skills Training on February 9 and 16. Pray
for the Holy Spirit to move in the hearts of those he has called to be Mentors. Pray
that obstacles will be removed and more Mentors will step forward.
2. Pray for those who find it difficult to stay out of addictive behaviors. Pray for
strength of resolve and physical protection. Pray for new support systems for each
client to help prevent relapse.
Volunteers in Service
2008 Grant: $5,000
2008 Objective: 35 youth are mentored; 75 individuals are befriended
Contact: Doug Redford: dredford@visgr.org
VIS continues to focus on relational-based ministry in our connections area. This
is done primarily through friendly visitors for isolated adults, mother’s helpers and
mentors for youth. In the year 2008 over 20 youth were matched with an adult and
more than 50 new friendly visitor relationships were established. VIS continues to
see an increase in calls for short-term service projects and have been able to
include both adults and youth in completing over 10 projects in the last two
months. In Classis East three churches are actively working with a congregational
coach from VIS on church and community development and four churches are
actively involved in the connections area.
A story to share would be of a single illiterate mom desiring to read to her
children. A retired school teacher from a local church responded to the request
and now spends time each week tutoring this mom.
A prayer request: For more members of churches in Classis East to respond to
the increasing needs in the community around them.
Alternative Directions
2008 Grant: $7,500
2008 Objective: 60 men find new support systems, meaningful employment,
housing, and reconciliation with communities
Contact: Jack Kooreman: kooreman@att.net
Our focus for this offender population is in bringing the gospel. We do that in
various ways but most importantly in 2 "Alpha Groups" that meet weekly. On
average, the 2 groups led by Pastor Sims of Step of Faith Church and Pastor Jack
Kooreman of Grace Church consist of 12-15 men. Men from those groups
regularly attend our churches. We provide transportation to Grace and Step of
Faith each Sunday for 20 of the residents of Alternative Directions. Within the
church, they connect with our members, are often provided lunch and opportunity
for fellowship and support.
We have one resident in our program who is named David. He is a parolee and
also a recovering addict. He has joined the Grace Church Praise Team, playing
the guitar. He has found work and has found faith and found a new community to
help and support him. Please keep him and our efforts in your prayers.
On average the Wednesday session averages about 10 guys. On Sunday an
average of 4 to 8 guys attend Sunday services.
Interacting with the guys has been very gratifying. We have very honest opened
discussions about life's challenges. A big issue for many of these guys is
employment opportunities and family pressures because of fractured
relationships. We start each session by guys introducing themselves and telling
the group something positive about themselves.
This has been very rewarding for the guys. There are some gifted guys in the
group.
The holiday season was very difficult for many of the guys because they were not
able to buy their family presents. We talked about being honest with themselves
about their limitations and then planning ways to respond to their children
expectations which they could not meet. They guys appreciated being able to
discuss disappointments in a safe environment.
My personal desire is to see some of these guys find acceptance in local
churches once leaving the program. Because of this I put a lot of emphasis on a
guy finding a group of positives to be a part of.
One young man visits regularly and now his mother, brother and sister attend
regularly along with him. This has been a blessing for everyone. His mother has
expressed many thanks to god for her son finding a place of worship he enjoys.
She told us it was an answer to her prayers.
Mars-Bros (Oakdale Neighbors)
2008 Grant: $2,000
2008 Objective: 20 youth exhibit spiritual, emotional, and educational growth
Contact: Bruce Boman: bruce@marsbros.org
Goals
Recently, I used the Search Institutes “Developmental Asset Profiles” or DAP to
provide empirical evidence to determine the effectiveness of mentoring on our
youth. 25 of 49 youth returned surveys and were scored according to eight asset
categories.
I have long wrestled with the results from the surveys, which indicated low scores
in “Empowerment.” It needs to be mentioned that Empowerment is closely linked
to the context-stability of our students. For example, “Is my school, community,
home: safe.” If a neighborhood is victim to these things then Empowerment goes
way down. Grand Rapids Police Department reported 220 crimes in a 2 mile
radius of the Oakdale Neighborhood this summer. Personal interviews with
students indicate that they are learning in schools but they don’t feel safe from
peers or the community. Bottom line, our middle school students are saying they
don’t have the resources other communities have to be empowered.
On a positive note, it looks like students overall scored high in “Boundaries and
Expectations,” “Positive Identity,” and “Commitment to Learn.” “Scores in the
excellent range for Boundaries and Expectations scale suggests reporting of
consistent clear rules and consequences…(from) positive role models among
friends, family and outside the family.” (DAP manual) This category and “Positive
Identity” were good indicators of our success with programming. Our volunteers
assisted parents by reinforcing boundaries, which leads to positive outcomes. In
addition, our programs that include reading and chess encouraged students to
build skills, which lead to higher self-esteem.
We will trust in the Lord that these results show us moving in the right direction.
Mentor Spotlight by Peter Daining
Sometimes Shawn Bailey just needs someone to talk to. Other times he needs
someone big to practice driving to the basketball hoop against. Shawn's
MarsBros mentor, Rick DeVries, fills both those posts. "He can't quite move me
out of the lane," Rick said of their on-court encounters. "I just have to use my
speed," Shawn replies with a smile.
Since meeting for the first time last fall, Rick and Shawn's relationship has grown
into much more than trips to the basketball court or bowling alley. Rick said he
and Shawn are slowly building trust. They ask each other a lot of questions about
life. Shawn says he likes having someone to open up to.
His mother, Gwendolyn Bailey, said Shawn's father isn't in the picture and having
Rick around gives the eighth-grader a positive male role model. Shawn also
needed someone steady. He's moved in the last year and was having trouble with
his grades and some of his teachers, Gwendolyn said. "Rick came into his life at
a time when it was crucial for somebody to step in," she said. "I really believe we
wouldn't have made it through the school year if it wasn't for Rick, because now
Shawn has somebody else to talk to."
When Shawn comes home after meeting Rick at a cafe or a bookstore,
Gwendolyn sometimes asks what they discussed. "Man stuff," Shawn tells her.
"And I have to accept that, because that's their privacy," Gwendolyn said. Rick and
Shawn have a lot in common. They're both tall and quiet, and they both love sports
and reading. Sometimes when they go to a bookstore or library, Rick said Shawn
gets lost in the aisles. "He gets so engrossed in those comic books," Rick said.
Mars-Bros Director Bruce Boman said the two are a good match because Shawn
is willing to work on the relationship and Rick, who has five sons of his own, is an
experienced parent. Until meeting Rick, Bruce said he thought the best mentors
were between 25-35 years old -- young enough to relate with teenagers and old
enough to be reliable. At age 53, Rick is both those things, Bruce said, and needs
a lot less guidance than many mentors. "Rick is more willing to make things long-
term, because he realizes it takes time," Bruce said. "I think that comes from
being a parent."
Gwendolyn said she knew everything would be fine once she found out Rick could
keep up with Shawn on the basketball court. "At first I was a little concerned, but
after a while he proved he can hang with Shawn," she said. On top of her
parenting duties, Gwendolyn works full-time and is taking classes toward a
master's degree. Even with a busy schedule, she took on a dual role at Mars-
Bros by mentoring a 14-year-old herself.
"It's an awesome experience that I thank God for, because I didn't really now what I
was getting to," she said. "I get to be a friend to another young lady pressing her
way through her situation." Just like with her own mentoring relationship,
Gwendolyn knows Rick will be there when Shawn needs a listening ear or some
stern advice.
"As long as Shawn keeps reaching out to Rick, Rick will be there for Shawn,"she
said.
Prayer Request
We need prayer for families that are out of work and people to sign up to be
volunteers.
Restorers
2008 Grant: $8,000
2008 Objective: individuals find full time employment
Contact: Sandra Hardy: sandra@restorersinc.org
Restorers is grateful to be a recipient of a GR Classis East grant in the amount of
$8,000. These funds were used towards our Economic Empowerment program,
which includes our Employment Services as well as Financial Freedom Program.
Overall, we were able to serve 125 individuals through these programs, with 25
individuals becoming full-time employed. The 50 individuals successfully
graduated from our Financial Freedom program. 33 percent of those seeking
employment obtained full-time employment. The remaining 66 percent either
became employed part-time or were unable to secure employment.
These results were achieved as follows:
Employment - 75 clients were served individually by assisting them with their
employment searches. Every client received an updated resume as well as
assistance putting their resume on-line for on-line job searches (Michigan Talent
Bank). Each client met one-on-one with our Employment Specialist and was
provided an Individual Employment Plan (IEP), which consists of 5-6 employment
leads. They are also coached on interviewing as well as policies and procedures
that are standard for most employers.
Financial Freedom - 50 individuals successfully graduated from our 12 week,
biblically based, budgeting class. These individuals met each week for 2 hours
per week to discuss finance related topics as well as better understand their how
spiritually, they are to manage their resources. Based on pre and post test
responses, all of the participants increased their understanding about finances in
general and more specifically, their finances. All of the participants felt like they got
so much more out of the class than information about how to get their finances in
order. They all left with a closer relationship with Jesus Christ! One woman said
that she never prayed out loud before coming to our class. Now she prays all the
time and is not ashamed!
Story - Single mom, LaTasha, came to Restorers initially for assistance with a rent
crisis. As we were able to meet her immidiate crisis need, we also looked at ways
to help her long-term. We were able to look at her income and expenses to
determine the cause for this crisis. The results were that LaTasha needed to have
more income as well as learn how to budget her finances. We were able to
internally refer her to our Employment and Financial Freedom programs. With the
assistance of our Employment Program, LaTasha was able to secure full-time
employment with benefits at a local company. She also was able to learn about
finances and how to manage them better through our Financial Freedom
program. LaTasha now can see the future being secure for her family. In addition,
she is developing a closer, personal relationship with Jesus Christ.
Pray request - That God would bless our community by continuing to meet the
needs of the people here. That through Restorers, we can demonstrate the Love
of Christ, as people work toward "Long-term sustainable change in their families
and this neighborhood". Also, that Restorers program needs will all be met, both
in terms of volunteers as well as financially.
This summary is by no means exhaustive. I could go on and on about the impact
we have witnessed through our programs. Again, I want to thank you and GR
Classis East for supporting the work that we are doing in this community. Let me
know if you need any additional information.
STEP Community Center
2008 Grant: $5,000
2008 Objective: 10-15 students show academic improvement
Contact: Stedford Sims: ssims@stepoffaithchurch.org
KIDS HOPE is a wonderful ministry. It’s a blessing to make a difference in a child’
s Life, one child at a time. This is our first full year, as of November we have 13
mentors. There are 6 new mentors volunteering this year.
KIDS HOPE has been a blessing and a challenge for me.
This year it was a lot harder to get started than last year. I have learned the school
does not move in my timing, I found myself feeling like Kids Hope wasn’t
important to the school staff. Yet I had to understand there are many different
things going on in the school and not just our program.
A challenge for me has been getting permission slips signed and returned in a
timely manner so that mentors could begin the school year. I had to find a fast way
to get permission slips out to the homes and turned back. Instead of waiting for
the school to contact parents and then wait for permission slips to be returned I
decided to communicate with the parents myself. Once I began doing this the
permission slips began to come back! That may seem like a simple task too
many but learning how the school works and being respectful of [their way of
doing things] was not the easiest task. I find myself growing in so many different
ways, especially in the area of communication.
One of the blessings I have received was when one of our student’s name La’
Montreal met with his mentor he was very upset because his mother was in the
hospital and he was afraid she was not getting well. The teacher was very
concerned for La Montreal and reported that he was having a difficult time in
school. La’ Montreal told his mentor all about it during their session. His mentor
offered to visit his mother in the hospital. While at the hospital that evening La’
Montreal and his family was their and together they were able to pray for his mom
and the many needs of the family. The mother was very thankful that the mentor
cared enough to visit the hospital and have prayer with the family.
This was an opportunity for the family to be invited to church services as well. We
are praying for the family and are encouraged by the new relationship extending
beyond the mentoring relationship at school.
We are asking for the churches to join us as we pray for the staff and families of
William C. Abney Academy. That the families are drawn to God by our Christian
witness and Step Of Faith and Sherman Street Church continue to value this
outreach to the public school.
promote holistic evangelism and discipleship. Here are some of the results
achieved with these grants:
Boston Square CRC
2008 Grant: $2,750
2008 Objective: 10 Boston Square youth develop quality relationships with
children as measured by a survey of the youth; 5 neighborhood youth help lead
VBS
Contact: Jay Blankespoor: jaybscrc@sbcglobal.net
1. In what way has the objective been achieved?
We began the summer with a leadership-training retreat. We had hoped to go
camping for this event, but because of the threat of severe weather, we stayed in
the church basement instead. We had 12 Boston Square youth and one
neighborhood youth at this event. It went quite well, despite the last minute
changes, and the youth grew in their faith and in their understanding of leadership.
A few weeks later, we led vacation Bible school with a dozen Boston Square youth
helping and four neighborhood youth also leading. The youth were "shepherds"--
guiding the children from station to station. They all reported enjoying getting to
know the kids as one of the highlights of the week. It was a pleasure to me to see
how they grew in working with children--one high schooler in particular had his
shoe tie-dyed by one of the youth, but instead of seeking retaliation, handled it
through the proper channels.
We've also had good results as we begun a bi-weekly Bible study this fall as a
follow-up.
2. Tell a story of a changed life as a result of the program.
We decided at the last minute to include some of our seventh-graders in a few of
the leadership-training events. They soon found themselves in a strange position
of both being leaders and being in one of the classes for VBS. We had one other
kid who joined us for a seventh-grade VBS class (usually we cut it off at sixth
grade). Over the course of the week, it was impressive to see how they began to
understand their role as not only learning, but also helping to bring the other
seventh-grader along. On the last day of class, we talked about Jesus Christ and
his sacrifice for our sins. We asked how we get to heaven and Jaylon, the other
seventh grader, said by being good. Others in the class began to ask how we
know when we're good enough and that led to a conversation about the grace of
God and the love of Jesus. At the end of the class, Jaylon said he loved Jesus, he
thought about everything differently, and on his way out, he drew a cross on the
chalkboard with a large heart in the middle of it. It was powerful for the other
seventh-graders to see how their witness made a difference.
3. Describe something about this program that the churches of southeast Grand
Rapids can lift to God in prayer.
We are still trying to find ways to maintain relationships with the neighborhood
youth leaders throughout the school year. We've had difficulty integrating them
into the usual events of the youth ministry.
Calvin CRC
2008 Grant: $6,000
2008 Objective: 100-150 youth attend field trips and events such as basketball
and Bible study
Contact: Joel Copley
Introduction. 2008 has seen real growth in opportunities for Calvin Church and
Eastown Ministries to bless and challenge the community youth that we care for
and are mutually concerned about.
Field Trips
An important emphasis of this ministry is to spend an extended period of time with
kids from the neighborhood, in alternate settings, out of the city. We have done
several outings this past year that helped us get to know God and each other a
little better. Back in February we took 40 teens out to Lowell to have a lock in. We
spent the night roller-skating and bowling and finished the night back the Eastown
Ministry Center watching a movie while 15 of the teen boys went over to Calvin
Church to play basketball. We also took two trips out to Branch Adventures in
Saranac, MI. Here 40 kids (in two outings were able to worship out in the woods
through song, and explore God’s world through canoeing and obstacle courses.
Towards the end of the summer we took 36 teens to Michigan Adventure to have a
wet and wild time. It is always important when adults and kids are laughing
together and making eye contact.
In order to supervise and enrich these experiences we had a number of
volunteers from Eastown Ministries, supplemented with a small yet growing
number of folks from Calvin Church.
Vacation Bible School
The Vacation Bible School at Eastown Ministry Center saw 78 kids (52 on one
day) walk in to hear the gospel, sing songs of worship, eat a great treat, and
reflect on the Biblical stories through a meaningful craft. This task took a lot of
effort and helping hands from both Eastown Ministries and Calvin Church to
promote, coordinate details, and execute. It was an intense week and helped use
really see how we are all part of God’s body.
Calvin Church also helps kick off the week with an Ice Cream social for the
neighborhood.
Homework House
Across the alley from the Eastown Ministries center is a newly remodeled home
rightly called “The Homework House.” The Homework House was a foreclosed
properly purchased by an Eastown Ministries board member who masterfully
remodeled and designed it to facilitate after school tutoring for K-12 students. The
majority of the students walk to the house from nearby Campus and South East
Academic Center. They are provided an after school snack while they receive help
with their homework. The house is furnished with several computers connected
to the internet, a nice size library, and two tutoring rooms. The Homework House
is open Monday through Thursday and serves 12-18 students.
Megan Aupperlee, who lives in the neighborhood, does a great job as coordinator
of the Homework House. The tutors who serve come regularly from both Eastown
Ministries and Calvin Church. We rejoice over the extended number of volunteers
from the church who are directly involved and excited about this ministry to youth.
Thursday’s Fun Night and Teen Night
Every Thursday night (except for two nights in the month of July) Eastown
Ministries doors are open between 5:30 and 8:00 to the youth of the
neighborhood. The first hour serves kids between the ages of 4-11. Kids come in
to sing worship songs, pray, hear the gospel, play games, and win prizes. These
“Fun Nights” are full of excitement during all stages of the hour. This is an
important time to provide a Christian community to these young image bearers--to
both “talk the talk” with the gospel we speak and “walk the walk” with the love,
kindness and respect we show.
The Teen Night follows with a similar format except the message we bring gets a
lot more real and urgent. We try to understand the lives these kids lead and how
God is working in order to help them understand and receive the transforming
power of His salvation for their life and world. We believe that Thursday night has
a very positive and redeeming influence on the lives of the neighborhood kids who
come through the doors of the Eastown Ministry Center.
A few members of Calvin Church have spoken at both the kids and teen times and
as there is greater exposure of Eastown Ministries with Calvin Church, we hope
there will be more regular volunteers to add to those who currently give up their
Thursday evenings for this important ministry.
Eastown Teen Boys Basketball
We often have 15 to 20 who boys want to play basketball. The Basketball program
has been an important addition to our teen ministry by increasing their motivation
and accountability to the gospel. It also provides a safe space to model Kingdom
values in the arenas of body, sport and competition.
In order for the boys to play ball they must attend Teen Night where they have an
opportunity each week to hear a message from the Bible. They also must learn a
Bible verse and say it 6 times to an adult in order to sign up to play basketball.
This provides a great opportunity for adult leaders to interact and witness to teens
at a one-to-one level. We sometimes have over 20 boys who want to play eagerly
reciting Bible verses. This fall our program has served 35-40 teens every
Thursday night.
Some of the boys come primarily to play basketball but are exposed to the Gospel
message and challenged in regards to their relationship to the Lord. For some of
the boys their first contact with Eastown Ministries was because of someone
inviting them to play basketball. Most of these teens are not “church kids” and
have had little or no exposure to the Gospel.
We are continually making adjustments to make this program better. Occasionally
things come up that we must try to correct. We need to remember that we are
dealing with inner city kids from broken homes that have little or no family support.
The shared ministry between Eastown Ministries and Calvin Church is trying to be
a support system to teens in the neighborhood and the basketball program plays
an important support role in this endeavor.
Other Miscellaneous:
Calvin Church seeks to encourage, support and learn from the gospel ministry at
Eastown in other ways: through diaconal offerings and budget support, through
counsel (two members of our church are on the Eastown Ministry board) and
through other creative ways of assistance (eg. providing facility space and
promoting a recent Eastown Ministry fundraiser or when items are needed, such
as a laptop, the word gets out and it is donated).
Eastown Ministries has also been helpful to Calvin Church as the directors there
provide prayer for Calvin Church and personal support for the volunteers from our
church. Additionally, when Calvin has had ministry events for the young people we
directly serve (through our VBS or Neighbors Night), Eastown Ministries has been
open to providing games from its own facility and also promoting these ministries
with its youth.
Conclusion
The collaborative effort between Calvin Church and Eastown ministries to reach
the hearts and lives of Eastown youth has been fruitful and seeks to be even more
so. The funds from the Home Missions grant have been instrumental in
enhancing the Kingdom —from computers for the Homework House, or paying for
the Field trip events, or paying liability insurance for all the above—these funds
have contributed to the impact we are able to mutually make. Continuations of
these funds will help support the momentum of these ministries as well as
provide new opportunities for evangelism, discipleship and Christian leadership
in the name of our Lord Jesus.
Eastern Avenue CRC
2008 Grant: $5,000
2008 Objective: Boys remain in or graduate from school, interact more positively,
accept Christ, exhibit fewer law violations and at-risk behaviors such as drugs,
alcohol, and premarital sex; Girls participate regularly, complete life skills
curriculum, interact more positively, accept Christ
Contact: Arlan Palmer: apalmer@wedgwood.org
Report on Objectives:
The WEB boys remain in or graduate from school, interact more positively, accept
Christ, exhibit fewer law violations and at-risk behaviors such as drugs, alcohol,
and premarital sex.
8 of the 11 youth who come to club are currently enrolled in regular or alternative
education programs. One of our youth is currently in his sophomore year at
Community college. Unfortunately three of the youth are not enrolled in any
educational system at the moment.
Of the 11 youth, one is currently in a juvenile facility out of state and will return
within a month or so. One of our 19 year olds was recently arrested for a drug
related charge. 8 of the 11 report no use of marijuana or alcohol. The other four
have talked openly and honestly concerning their drug usage.
Issues related to premarital sex. 9 of the 11 indicate little to no sexual activity. One
of my club members did become a father within the last two months. A unique
story and victory in this area is when one of my club members called me and
asked me what advice I could give him about his relationship with his girl friend.
Here was his dilemma. He said that she was a Christian and wanted to stop
having sex outside of marriage. The student wanted to know should he break up
with her because of that. I asked my club member, what type of woman God
would want him to marry and be with the rest of his life. Would he like someone
who has Christian values or some one who is willing to give it up to any one? I
am glad to report that he did not break up with her and per his report they are
remain sexually abstinent
Goal related to spiritual growth and relationship to Christ. Six of the eleven show
that a relationship with God is very important. The youth have been challenged
through out the year about their spiritual growth and relationship with Christ.
Successes in the Program
Quinton and Darius completed their first year in College. He has been asked a
few times to come back and speak to our inner city youth who attended our
Tutoring program. Quinton is a strong leader. He spoke at our 10 year WEB
Tutoring Celebration in May. I was very proud to have Quinton and Gregg work at
Camp Tall Turf this summer. What a blessing to know that the two of them were
surrounded by people who loved the word of God. Each of them are planning to
work their again if given another chance.
Another major success was having all of my club members finish their summer
work program. It was great to work with Project COOL and Building Bridges Clean
Slate. Each student was challenged to grow in many areas. They were exposed
to many speakers and different occupations.
We did attempt to work with our kids on budgeting this summer which helped us
to expose the youth to money management. Even though were not able to
complete our sessions for the summer, the principles are good for them to learn.
Another success, to highlight is that club members who have turned 18 and 19
years of age, are still involved with Teens on Track. Like I mentioned before
Quinton has given back to the club by speaking to other teens in Eastern Avenue
Church programs. He has also volunteered to go on activities as a support
person for me this summer. Quinton received great praise at our water tubing
activating by being very responsible for cleaning up after the other guys without
asking. Justin also continues to come to club. He has not gotten his GED or
diploma but he seems to realize that club is positive thing for him to be involved
in. He turned 19 this summer but he told me he was not going to stop coming to
club which shows the strong relational aspect of our ministry with TEENS.
Barriers/Challenges/Prayer
This summer one of our club members was put in juvenile detention. His name is
Darnell. This was very disappointing because this Youngman is the youngest
brother of Darryl Weaver who murdered in 2007. He continued to violate the rules
of probation and would not come home at night. This is very troubling concerning
the poor choices that this Youngman is making. He has been in a juvenile
detention facility since June of 2008. He should be getting released pretty soon.
One of the good blessings is that he is working on his educational goals while he
is there. Pray for this Youngman. I believe he has not dealt with the death of his
brother. I have to be reminded that he is only 14 years old.
Another challenge is what to do with kids who have turned 19 and have not
reached any of their goals, i.e. a high school diploma or GED. Justin Jackson is
Youngman who has been in club since he was 7 years old. (He states he lied
about his age and was 6 years old when he started). I have done my best to
connect him with resources like Goodwill industries, Building Bridges Clean
Slate, and Grand Rapids Job Corps. He is a good worker but certain aspects of
his personality and some medical concerns get in the way. He is a Youngman
that also struggles with some drug use i.e. marijuana. He sees nothing wrong
with it and he is hoping the state of Michigan will legalize it.
He is also the Youngman who was picked up on a drug related charge just before
Christmas. He is out on bail and attending club. This has give he and I some
good conversations about integrity, drug use etc. Pray that he gets accepted into
Job Corps and completes his education.
First CRC
2008 Grant: $5,000
2008 Objective: 250 people will be helped in navigating the system of assistance;
100 people will be ministered to spiritually; 12 families are more financially
independent; 10-15 individuals will be empowered to minister; classes will be
developed; four partherships will be developed
Contact: Mark Van Drunen: mark@firstcrc.org
First, we want to thank Classis Grand Rapids East so much for granting us the
seed money to start Bates Place community center. During the past three years
Bates Place has grown from an idea to a reality and a key part of the ministry of
First Christian Reformed Church in our community. We are open Tuesday through
Friday in the mornings and seek to “Provide those in need with spiritual and
practical solutions.” In the past year approximately 135 people have walked
through our doors. In addition to this we have served and had contact with over
500 people through food trucks and community meals. We have been or currently
are in various degrees of mentoring relationships with 25-30 of these individuals.
We have also provided insight or direction in spiritual and practical areas to
approximately 75 people over the course of this past year. Some of these people
visit only once, others are at Bates Place almost every day.
Formal Mentoring and Classes
We have continued our Bates Place 911 (based on Psalm 9:11) over the last year
with some individuals although this is currently less formal than we would prefer.
We ran a financial education class and we are planning another for January-
March in conjunction with church members. We also started a Bible Study that
meets on Wednesday and is followed by a meal which has good attendance. God
is using this to teach and encourage people in their walk with Jesus. This is often
followed by another Bible study Wednesday evening during the Church Midweek
program.
Relationships with Other Agencies
As do many agencies, we work with ACCESS and have some contact with Baxter
Community Center. We are currently investigating a relationship with a larger
organization that would better enable us to minister to men who have recently be
releaseD from Prison. This will likely take up much of our development work in
2009. We also continue to strive to keep a strong connection between Bates Place
and the community as well as the worship at First Church. We believe that people’
s chances of making better choices is exponentially increased when they are
embraced and become a part of a community of faith.
A Story
Many people come through the doors of Bates Place in a given week. Some stay
for a while. Some only come once. Other come back often and gradually make
changes in their lives. But the best things happen when we are able to develop
real relationships with each other. Last summer of couple from another city
moved onto Bates Street with their three kids. Within a day, they had stopped by
the church and Bates Place to see if they could find some help with food and
figuring out how things work in Grand Rapids. Bryan helped them in various ways
and they also immediately joined the financial education class as well as
attended the Bible studies that were offered. Over time they also started attending
the church on a more regular basis and although it is different from what they
were used too, they felt welcomed and blessed as they grew to be part of the
community. Recently they completed the new members class and, Lord willing,
will become new members in January, along with the appropriate baptisms. The
man’s brother-in-law recently also joined them from the other city and made it
rather clear that this man never “messed with” church like that back home. And so
we have had the opportunity to get to know a great family as well as an opportunity
to mentor five people in the knowledge of Christ and how to follow him. This
journey obviously continues for all of us and we covet your prayers for us, for this
family and for all the others who we come into contact with during the year.
Prayer Request:
Each day is a difference experience at Bates Place. Some days two people stop
by just to chat for a bit or use the phone, other days there many people with deep
and pressing needs whom we are privileged to engage in a conversation about
following Jesus.
The biggest prayer request is that we continue to grow in the knowledge of how
best to minister in this community. We have many people visiting and we feel that
the best response to their needs is to be willing to build relationships and walk
with them for a while. But we also see a need to develop more structure so that
we are better equipped to train and disciple those who want to grow in their faith
and become a more integral part of the church community as well as a
contributing member of society. This is our hope and this is our prayer.
Neland CRC
2008 Grant: $8,000
2008 Objective: young men move forward socially, spiritually, personally
Contact: Pearl Banks: pbanks@neland.org
No issue needed greater attention than the salvation, education and
understanding of our
inner city males. At Neland the alternative to mis-education, missed opportunities,
hopelessness
and incarceration was clear.
We looked to achieve the following objectives:
- provide an exercise environment as an alternative to our community and
congregation - provide a safe, clean facility for spiritual, physical and emotional
development, - provide fellowship that will lead to ministry opportunities
- provide trained and equipped trainers who serve as godly role models for
young men to imitate - promote activities to assist in spiritual maturity
- provide physical exercise for the congregation, father and son, mother and
daughter, - friend to friend
The grant from Classis Grand Rapids East was such a jump start to the program
that we took it as an “Almighty Amen” and went for it.
Slowly and wisely council said do it and Elijah Libbett a young man who spent 15+
years in prison hit the neighborhood with flyers starting the program in August 07.
Greg Boven, a building contractor, has come alongside of Elijah with a patient
spirit, stabilizing the program and teaching woodworking classes.
Mike Spearman faithfully runs the basketball program guiding the young men into
team effort. Nick Bierma teaches Tuesday night bible study and Tish Patterson
prays for each attendee.
1. In what way has the objective been achieved?
The Neland Avenue CRC sign at the corner of Alexander and Alto was once home
to a group calling themselves the “A” street gang. There is no more gang activity
there. The strength training room is used weekly by both young men from the
neighborhood and Neland Avenue CRC members. The woodworking shop is
stocked with state of the art equipment for the young men to learn on. The Young
Men made 19 Adirondack chairs which they sold and gained monies for the
program and more supplies.
The young men have attended 24 Life Skills and Self Development sessions
taught by Earlina Libbett of Jubilee Jobs. The male nursing students from Calvin
College taught the young men about personal and social health issues. The
young men created their own rules regulating language and behavior. They also
enforce their rules.
The program has increased from 3 to 4 nights per week. The additional night is
for men 35 years and older only. Thanks to the generosity of Baxter Community
Center the program meets 2 nights in their gym for full court challenges and
games. At Baxter Community Center, Thursday night is for the 35 and older group
and Friday remains for those 16 and up.
Through additional small short term grants, 12 of the young men received
employment for the summer. Jubilee Jobs has granted a weekly stipend to 6
young men while they learn woodworking this fall. The young men at times spend
more time asking questions than playing ball. They ask biblical questions which
lead to life questions.
2. Tell a story of a changed life as a result of the program.
“Changed Lives”, this story is not yet ready to be told. Our young men who are 16
and older come to the program because the doors are open, there are people
who are glad to see them, interested in them, and believe in them.
Kamron, lost his support system when his Aunt was killed. Kamron is resilient.
He asks each question more than one way because he doesn’t want to
misunderstand anything. Long after you have answered him, he stands there
thinking how can he phrase the question so we both are unmistakably clear.
Kamron is at Neland Avenue CRC early and daily. Kamron has made the choice
that this is where he would rather be. His younger brother made a different choice
for the streets and drugs. Kamron is a gifted artist and not only does he soak up
all that Neland can offer, he is taking art classes at Kendall College at a members
expense. May Kamron always seek his answers at a place like Neland Avenue
CRC and may God always provide someone to gently guide.
Deale wants to be accepted by the young men of the street, but comes to church
instead. He would like to be out there but he knows he’s not bad enough. Deale is
one of the reasons we start programs.
He is the young man who asked for a mentor, because he doesn’t want to grow
up being the one begging. He wants to be able to give. Deale is lazy, and unless
challenged he won’t use his photographic memory for the good. Deale is willing
to carry the load when help is needed. He is compassionate beyond measure, but
he is reluctant to let that side show. He is our best recruiter of other young men.
“Come and see”, he offers that invitation so freely to others, who have joined and
stayed with the program. Pray that God will claim his heart as he continues to
claim others.
Darius came to Elijah, because after his mother and stepfather were divorced, his
stepfather told him in no uncertain terms that he was never, ever to step his (^&*
(*$) self to his door. Having been the only father Darius ever knew he was broken.
His mother brought him to Elijah. Greg began mentoring Darius. Darius is
charismatic. He draws everyone in. He easily gives of himself and recognizes
needs in others. When we were leaving Montana, we had to leave behind a
special needs young man that clearly got on all of the youths last nerve. I said to
Darius, “Adam’s in the car leaving for home, go over and say goodbye to him.”
Darius walked up to the car and said, “Adam, You forgot something.” Adam
replied “what?” Darius told him, “You forgot to give me my hug.” Adam jumped
out of the car gave him a hug and went to sit by everyone else. His mother couldn’t
get him to leave the group and was so very grateful that Adam had been accepted.
All of our young men are considered slow by the educational system. Kamron, the
artist, Deale with a photographic memory and Darius, broken and spilled out yet
carrying the heart of God. Our young men need a system of support. A community,
a school, a government that values their contribution to society and comes
together to make sure they have an opportunity to do just that; contribute. Pray for
that and for God’s unforgettable claim on each one of there lives, not forgetting all
our young men.
Baxter Community Center
2008 Grant: $9,000
2008 Objective: 1500 individuals served by food and clothing pantry; 15 people are
served by Freedom in Your Finances series; 1800 people are served by tax
preparation
Contact: Melanie Beelen: melanieb@baxtercommunitycenter.org
Thank you for your confidence in Baxter Community Center and its programs.
Below are the answers you requested:
1. To date, 1,562 individuals have been served by our Market Place (food and
clothing pantry), 15 people participated in our Freedom in Your Finances classes
(10 graduated), and approximately 1700 individuals were able to have their
income taxes prepared free of charge.
2. Alice is no stranger to Baxter Community Center. She has needed most of
the services that Baxter offers, however she had not heard about the Freedom in
Your Finance Class until recently. Alice had been laid off from her job. When she
started attending the class, Alice had been paying bills late, using funds allocated
for bills to help others, and eating out more than necessary. Alice’s attitude about
her finances changed throughout her time in the class. She began to discover that
her “only $25 a month” bills really added up quickly. After being matched with a
financial freedom coach, the partnership in thinking and planning helped to
establish new ideas for Alice to implement. Together they learned trips to the
coffee shop can quickly add up to over $50 a month. Alice has learned that her
tendency to pay bills late can hinder her credit score, while paying on time, or
early, can help raise her credit. Since graduating from the class, Alice has been
able to pay down her bills, start a saving account, and manage her finances
better. She has done all this while unemployed. Baxter is proud of the work and
choices Alice is making. Recently Alice decided to use her time to volunteer at
Baxter. She is an encouragement to those around her. (Name has been
changed.)
3. Prayer: That God will open doors to the churches around the neighborhood
to give me the opportunity to speak to the deacons of those churches. I want to
give them an opportunity for them to be trained on how to administer to their
members about what God says about money and how he holds His people
accountable to what He has given them. Most of our clients attend these churches
and I want to assist them in helping achieve those goals. Please have the
churches from southeast Grand Rapids pray for those who will be working with
the income tax program this year. Schedulers and tax preparers will need to have
God’s guidance as they speak with the clients to set appointments, confirm
needed documents are found and brought in, enter the correct information into the
computer and relay the outcomes. This is a very large, labor intensive program
that starts the end of January and continues through April 15. Pray for staff and
volunteers to practice wisdom and patience.
Campus Chapel in Ann Arbor
2008 Grant: $5,500
2008 Objective: Social justice is promoted; partnerships are developed; small
group ministry is developed
Contact: Rolf Bouma: rbouma@umich.edu
Camp Tall Turf
2008 Grant: $7,000
2008 Objective: youth show indications of serving others, acquisition of life and
career skills (from proposal submitted July 2006)
Contact: Jack Kooyman: jack.kooyman@gmail.com
1. What goals our outcomes have been achieved by the program and for how
many people?
Camp Tall Turf’s SALT program is essentially divided in to 3 different programs,
the Leader In Training (LIT) program, Sunday night Bible studies, and a summer
Adventure Camp. Our program year actually starts at the beginning of the
summer, so this report will reflect the 2007-08 programs in the Spring of 2008
and the 2008-09 program year with the summer and fall of 08.
In May of 2008 we wrapped up our school-year LIT program and Sunday night
Bible study. Through both of these programs we served 20 youth. Out of these 20
youth 85% reported that they experienced the personal rewards of serving others
& their community. 78% of SALT participants reported that they will choose to be
positive role models by becoming involved in programs or activities with their
peers and/or younger children.
In the summer of 2008 we served 73 high school students through our Adventure
Camp. Adventure Camp is a 6-day session of camp consisting of a mix of trips off
camp property and activities and classes at camp. Each evening there is a
general session and an in depth devotional time in their cabins. 14 of those 73
also participated in the summer LIT program. 100% of the LITs responding to the
survey about the summer program said that the LIT program helped them to
increase their skill and knowledge in problem solving and decision making. 86%
said the program helped them increase in the knowledge of both the character
traits of leadership as well as understanding types of leadership.
2. Tell a story of a changed life as a result of the program
The Impact Camp Tall Turf has had on Me
By RaeNosa Hudnell
Since I have become a part of the Leader in Training team at Tall Turf, I have been
affected by this ministry tremendously. The things that I have been taught and the
skills I have acquired will benefit me for years to come.
I am in year two of the school year LIT program and it has been challenging yet
rewarding. Here at Tall Turf you are challenged to be better than what you think
you can actually be. Here you’re allowed to achieve what God has for you, and if
you’re not so sure what His plan is for you, you’re given the opportunity to find out.
This summer the LITs took a trip to Mississippi. While there, we worked with the
Perkins Foundation. This foundation is all about community development and
working with youth and their families. The whole experience for me was not only
uplifting and insightful, but it brought confirmation to my prayers.
I am in my senior year of high school and college is quickly approaching. I had
been talking with family and friends about what I wanted to do as far as my career
is concerned. Everyone that I spoke with said the same thing, "You need to get a
high paying job and make lots of money." Money is important, but I want to be
happy.
I have always loved writing and teaching, but it wasn't until this past summer
working with Camp Tall Turf that I had a sudden desire to work with the people in
my community in order to better it. One day while in Mississippi I talked with my
mentor and shared with her how I had been feeling for quite some time . . . that I
had a real desire to help the people in my neighborhood. I was very impressed
with the movement there [John M. Perkins Foundation at the Spencer Perkins
Center in Jackson, MS] and would love to see such things implemented in my
own community.
When I say that being there was confirmation of my prayers, I say that for good
reason. At that time there were a lot of decisions that I needed to make, and I was
really struggling. While in Jackson [Mississippi] I got a chance to realize what was
important to me and what I wanted to do with myself. I have now decided that I am
probably going to be involved in community development. I would have never even
come to that decision if it weren't for Tall Turf. It would seem like that dream would
be so far away, but it’s actually right within my reach.
Part of my work as an LIT is preparing a legacy project that I would like to leave our
community. When I was told that, I thought, “What a coincidence.” and “What are
the odds of that!?” To be able to achieve desires and goals I have with the help of
Tall Turf is truly a blessing. It is something I could never have experienced
anywhere else.
3. Please describe something about this program that the churches of
southeast Grand Rapids can lift to God in prayer.
The churches can be praying for the leadership team, specifically for a male
mentor for the LIT program for the summer. Also they can continue to pray for the
teens to make positive choices and feel surrounded by the love and presence of
God!
Campus Directions
2008 Grant: $12,000
2008 Objective: one weekly large group meeting is held at 3 institutions; 11
weekly Bible study groups meet at 3 institutions; 21 Bible study leaders are
trained at 3 institutions
Contact: Harry Lew: harrywlew@gmail.com
GRAND RAPIDS COMMUNITY COLLEGE. Last semester we had over 60 students
involved with 5 Bible students. We spent the first week of classes in January
recruiting for new students. These last two weeks we have begun our weekly
Bible studies. So far we have six small groups ready to go. Please pray that they
go well and the chapter cohere as a large group as well.
KENDALL COLLEGE OF ART & DESIGN. We have about 40 members with over
30 attending regularly at the large group. The chapter has done well "penetrating
the campus," making it presence felt in various aspects of campus life. Please
pray that the students are more intentional in outreach and evangelism.
GRAND VALLEY STATE UNIVERSITY - DOWNTOWN CAMPUS. We have been
trying to reestablish a Nurses Christian Fellowship chapter. A former GRCC
chapter president has enrolled in the GVSU nursing program. Please pray that
she will find a faculty member willing to sponsor a NCF group and that fellow
nursing students are willing to join.
CALVIN COLLEGE. The chapter exists to promote the cause of missions on
campus. On February 10 and 11, they will host their annual missions fair, a mini-
Urbana. Two dozen missionary agencies will sending representatives and setting
up booths in the library lobby. Please pray for their safe travel to Grand Rapids and
success in recruiting Calvin students for career and short term missions.
CALVIN THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY. The Missions Club at Calvin Seminary is also
an InterVarsity affiliated group. They sent 14 seminarians to the last Urbana, the
most ever for the school. Please pray the club will think ahead and promote this
year's Urbana.
FACULTY MINISTRY. Some of our Calvin, Cornerstone, GVSU, Hope, and Kendall
professors have joined together to plan a scholarly conference on C.S. Lewis and
the Inklings to be held at Calvin College from March 26 to 28, The president of
Kendall has committed $1500 to our project, but we have to raise an additional
$1500 to cover expenses. Please pray that our financial needs will be met and
that we will get a good turnout to the conference.
A STORY. When we set up the right conditions, evangelism can happen easily
and the Lord will bless in His own sovereign manner. My strategy at Kendall
College of Art and Design has been to gather Christian students and make them
feel good about being Christians AND artists. They receive many messages from
the art establishment (artists, galleries, museums, schools, and critics) and
sometimes from the church that doing art today and being a Christian are
incompatible. Along with our program of Bible study and prayer on campus, we
invite alumni and others to come and speak about how they integrate their
Christian faith and commitment with their successful professional career as
artists. We also promote wholesome social activities to which our students can
invite their nonchristian friends and show that Christians can have fun!
students weekly. Darin, a sophomore illustration major from Redford, Michigan in
the Detroit area, has been coming because of friends that he had made with
several of our members. Knowing that our group has been attracting
nonchristians to our meetings and socials, I talked with the student leaders about
possibly having them give a short testimony during a meeting from time to time
about Christ working in their lives. Overhearing the discussion, Darin afterwards
asked Ellen, our chapter president, what I meant by "testimony." Ellen used this
opportunity to share the Gospel with him. Darin then confessed that he was not
ready to become a Christian, but he will think about it over the vacation break.
When he came back this year, Darin announced to Ellen and his Kendall
Christian Fellowship friends that he had become a Christian! While at home he
went to the only Christian he knew in his family, his grandmother, and when she
reinforced what Ellen had already told him, he then decided that he was ready.
Darin continues to come regularly to all our activities and attends church with his
Kendall Christian Fellowship friends. Last night I took a group of our Kendall
students including Darin to the Prodigal Son art exhibit at Calvin College. Darin
can now say that he has experienced the forgiveness and reconciliation with his
Heavenly Father.
SPECIFIC PRAYER FOR TWO STUDENTS. Two nonchristian students I've been
cultivating friendships with that I would like prayer for:
Xin (pronounced "Shin") is a first year Kendall student originally from China. A shy,
introvertish digital design major just happened early last semester to be studying
in the same room we use for our large group meetings. When the InterVarsity
students arrived to start the meeting, she decided to stay and she has been
coming regularly ever since. She is attracted to the friendliness of our students
and the Christian message, but I don't think she has gotten to the point of willing
to commit her life to Christ. Please pray that she does.
Jinsoo is a senior Ferris student originally from Korea who is taking courses at
GRCC this semester. He is a political activist and an "advocate for the voiceless in
Africa," having been there twice on humanitarian ventures. Raised Buddhist,
Jinsoo is "experimenting with religion" and is intrigued by the good work of
Christian missionaries in Africa. Please pray that our dialogue will continue well
and that he too will commit himself to Christ.
Criminal Justice Chaplaincy
2008 Grant: $11,000
2008 Objective: 215 individuals are served by Horticulture Therapy; 25 individuals
are mentored; 300 individuals are served by Life Skills Education
Contact: Jim Vander Schaaf: cjcministry@sbcglobal.net
(adapted from the CJC regular quarterly report by Tom Bulten)
Objectives
In 2008 Criminal Justice Chaplaincy has served 252 individuals through
Horticultural Therapy, 33 individuals are being mentored, and 239 individuals
through Life Skills Education.
Story
Individuals in the Horticultural Therapy program write:
"It was great to get some exercise and enjoy the sun and nature."
"I love doing things with plants. This is something my son and I can do for
Christmas gifts."
"It brought me back to my childhood and that was nice."
"I feel proud of myself for completing something."
"I really enjoyed working with the women I was teamed up with."
Prayer
1. Pray for our Mentor Orientation and Skills Training on February 9 and 16. Pray
for the Holy Spirit to move in the hearts of those he has called to be Mentors. Pray
that obstacles will be removed and more Mentors will step forward.
2. Pray for those who find it difficult to stay out of addictive behaviors. Pray for
strength of resolve and physical protection. Pray for new support systems for each
client to help prevent relapse.
Volunteers in Service
2008 Grant: $5,000
2008 Objective: 35 youth are mentored; 75 individuals are befriended
Contact: Doug Redford: dredford@visgr.org
VIS continues to focus on relational-based ministry in our connections area. This
is done primarily through friendly visitors for isolated adults, mother’s helpers and
mentors for youth. In the year 2008 over 20 youth were matched with an adult and
more than 50 new friendly visitor relationships were established. VIS continues to
see an increase in calls for short-term service projects and have been able to
include both adults and youth in completing over 10 projects in the last two
months. In Classis East three churches are actively working with a congregational
coach from VIS on church and community development and four churches are
actively involved in the connections area.
A story to share would be of a single illiterate mom desiring to read to her
children. A retired school teacher from a local church responded to the request
and now spends time each week tutoring this mom.
A prayer request: For more members of churches in Classis East to respond to
the increasing needs in the community around them.
Alternative Directions
2008 Grant: $7,500
2008 Objective: 60 men find new support systems, meaningful employment,
housing, and reconciliation with communities
Contact: Jack Kooreman: kooreman@att.net
Our focus for this offender population is in bringing the gospel. We do that in
various ways but most importantly in 2 "Alpha Groups" that meet weekly. On
average, the 2 groups led by Pastor Sims of Step of Faith Church and Pastor Jack
Kooreman of Grace Church consist of 12-15 men. Men from those groups
regularly attend our churches. We provide transportation to Grace and Step of
Faith each Sunday for 20 of the residents of Alternative Directions. Within the
church, they connect with our members, are often provided lunch and opportunity
for fellowship and support.
We have one resident in our program who is named David. He is a parolee and
also a recovering addict. He has joined the Grace Church Praise Team, playing
the guitar. He has found work and has found faith and found a new community to
help and support him. Please keep him and our efforts in your prayers.
On average the Wednesday session averages about 10 guys. On Sunday an
average of 4 to 8 guys attend Sunday services.
Interacting with the guys has been very gratifying. We have very honest opened
discussions about life's challenges. A big issue for many of these guys is
employment opportunities and family pressures because of fractured
relationships. We start each session by guys introducing themselves and telling
the group something positive about themselves.
This has been very rewarding for the guys. There are some gifted guys in the
group.
The holiday season was very difficult for many of the guys because they were not
able to buy their family presents. We talked about being honest with themselves
about their limitations and then planning ways to respond to their children
expectations which they could not meet. They guys appreciated being able to
discuss disappointments in a safe environment.
My personal desire is to see some of these guys find acceptance in local
churches once leaving the program. Because of this I put a lot of emphasis on a
guy finding a group of positives to be a part of.
One young man visits regularly and now his mother, brother and sister attend
regularly along with him. This has been a blessing for everyone. His mother has
expressed many thanks to god for her son finding a place of worship he enjoys.
She told us it was an answer to her prayers.
Mars-Bros (Oakdale Neighbors)
2008 Grant: $2,000
2008 Objective: 20 youth exhibit spiritual, emotional, and educational growth
Contact: Bruce Boman: bruce@marsbros.org
Goals
Recently, I used the Search Institutes “Developmental Asset Profiles” or DAP to
provide empirical evidence to determine the effectiveness of mentoring on our
youth. 25 of 49 youth returned surveys and were scored according to eight asset
categories.
I have long wrestled with the results from the surveys, which indicated low scores
in “Empowerment.” It needs to be mentioned that Empowerment is closely linked
to the context-stability of our students. For example, “Is my school, community,
home: safe.” If a neighborhood is victim to these things then Empowerment goes
way down. Grand Rapids Police Department reported 220 crimes in a 2 mile
radius of the Oakdale Neighborhood this summer. Personal interviews with
students indicate that they are learning in schools but they don’t feel safe from
peers or the community. Bottom line, our middle school students are saying they
don’t have the resources other communities have to be empowered.
On a positive note, it looks like students overall scored high in “Boundaries and
Expectations,” “Positive Identity,” and “Commitment to Learn.” “Scores in the
excellent range for Boundaries and Expectations scale suggests reporting of
consistent clear rules and consequences…(from) positive role models among
friends, family and outside the family.” (DAP manual) This category and “Positive
Identity” were good indicators of our success with programming. Our volunteers
assisted parents by reinforcing boundaries, which leads to positive outcomes. In
addition, our programs that include reading and chess encouraged students to
build skills, which lead to higher self-esteem.
We will trust in the Lord that these results show us moving in the right direction.
Mentor Spotlight by Peter Daining
Sometimes Shawn Bailey just needs someone to talk to. Other times he needs
someone big to practice driving to the basketball hoop against. Shawn's
MarsBros mentor, Rick DeVries, fills both those posts. "He can't quite move me
out of the lane," Rick said of their on-court encounters. "I just have to use my
speed," Shawn replies with a smile.
Since meeting for the first time last fall, Rick and Shawn's relationship has grown
into much more than trips to the basketball court or bowling alley. Rick said he
and Shawn are slowly building trust. They ask each other a lot of questions about
life. Shawn says he likes having someone to open up to.
His mother, Gwendolyn Bailey, said Shawn's father isn't in the picture and having
Rick around gives the eighth-grader a positive male role model. Shawn also
needed someone steady. He's moved in the last year and was having trouble with
his grades and some of his teachers, Gwendolyn said. "Rick came into his life at
a time when it was crucial for somebody to step in," she said. "I really believe we
wouldn't have made it through the school year if it wasn't for Rick, because now
Shawn has somebody else to talk to."
When Shawn comes home after meeting Rick at a cafe or a bookstore,
Gwendolyn sometimes asks what they discussed. "Man stuff," Shawn tells her.
"And I have to accept that, because that's their privacy," Gwendolyn said. Rick and
Shawn have a lot in common. They're both tall and quiet, and they both love sports
and reading. Sometimes when they go to a bookstore or library, Rick said Shawn
gets lost in the aisles. "He gets so engrossed in those comic books," Rick said.
Mars-Bros Director Bruce Boman said the two are a good match because Shawn
is willing to work on the relationship and Rick, who has five sons of his own, is an
experienced parent. Until meeting Rick, Bruce said he thought the best mentors
were between 25-35 years old -- young enough to relate with teenagers and old
enough to be reliable. At age 53, Rick is both those things, Bruce said, and needs
a lot less guidance than many mentors. "Rick is more willing to make things long-
term, because he realizes it takes time," Bruce said. "I think that comes from
being a parent."
Gwendolyn said she knew everything would be fine once she found out Rick could
keep up with Shawn on the basketball court. "At first I was a little concerned, but
after a while he proved he can hang with Shawn," she said. On top of her
parenting duties, Gwendolyn works full-time and is taking classes toward a
master's degree. Even with a busy schedule, she took on a dual role at Mars-
Bros by mentoring a 14-year-old herself.
"It's an awesome experience that I thank God for, because I didn't really now what I
was getting to," she said. "I get to be a friend to another young lady pressing her
way through her situation." Just like with her own mentoring relationship,
Gwendolyn knows Rick will be there when Shawn needs a listening ear or some
stern advice.
"As long as Shawn keeps reaching out to Rick, Rick will be there for Shawn,"she
said.
Prayer Request
We need prayer for families that are out of work and people to sign up to be
volunteers.
Restorers
2008 Grant: $8,000
2008 Objective: individuals find full time employment
Contact: Sandra Hardy: sandra@restorersinc.org
Restorers is grateful to be a recipient of a GR Classis East grant in the amount of
$8,000. These funds were used towards our Economic Empowerment program,
which includes our Employment Services as well as Financial Freedom Program.
Overall, we were able to serve 125 individuals through these programs, with 25
individuals becoming full-time employed. The 50 individuals successfully
graduated from our Financial Freedom program. 33 percent of those seeking
employment obtained full-time employment. The remaining 66 percent either
became employed part-time or were unable to secure employment.
These results were achieved as follows:
Employment - 75 clients were served individually by assisting them with their
employment searches. Every client received an updated resume as well as
assistance putting their resume on-line for on-line job searches (Michigan Talent
Bank). Each client met one-on-one with our Employment Specialist and was
provided an Individual Employment Plan (IEP), which consists of 5-6 employment
leads. They are also coached on interviewing as well as policies and procedures
that are standard for most employers.
Financial Freedom - 50 individuals successfully graduated from our 12 week,
biblically based, budgeting class. These individuals met each week for 2 hours
per week to discuss finance related topics as well as better understand their how
spiritually, they are to manage their resources. Based on pre and post test
responses, all of the participants increased their understanding about finances in
general and more specifically, their finances. All of the participants felt like they got
so much more out of the class than information about how to get their finances in
order. They all left with a closer relationship with Jesus Christ! One woman said
that she never prayed out loud before coming to our class. Now she prays all the
time and is not ashamed!
Story - Single mom, LaTasha, came to Restorers initially for assistance with a rent
crisis. As we were able to meet her immidiate crisis need, we also looked at ways
to help her long-term. We were able to look at her income and expenses to
determine the cause for this crisis. The results were that LaTasha needed to have
more income as well as learn how to budget her finances. We were able to
internally refer her to our Employment and Financial Freedom programs. With the
assistance of our Employment Program, LaTasha was able to secure full-time
employment with benefits at a local company. She also was able to learn about
finances and how to manage them better through our Financial Freedom
program. LaTasha now can see the future being secure for her family. In addition,
she is developing a closer, personal relationship with Jesus Christ.
Pray request - That God would bless our community by continuing to meet the
needs of the people here. That through Restorers, we can demonstrate the Love
of Christ, as people work toward "Long-term sustainable change in their families
and this neighborhood". Also, that Restorers program needs will all be met, both
in terms of volunteers as well as financially.
This summary is by no means exhaustive. I could go on and on about the impact
we have witnessed through our programs. Again, I want to thank you and GR
Classis East for supporting the work that we are doing in this community. Let me
know if you need any additional information.
STEP Community Center
2008 Grant: $5,000
2008 Objective: 10-15 students show academic improvement
Contact: Stedford Sims: ssims@stepoffaithchurch.org
KIDS HOPE is a wonderful ministry. It’s a blessing to make a difference in a child’
s Life, one child at a time. This is our first full year, as of November we have 13
mentors. There are 6 new mentors volunteering this year.
KIDS HOPE has been a blessing and a challenge for me.
This year it was a lot harder to get started than last year. I have learned the school
does not move in my timing, I found myself feeling like Kids Hope wasn’t
important to the school staff. Yet I had to understand there are many different
things going on in the school and not just our program.
A challenge for me has been getting permission slips signed and returned in a
timely manner so that mentors could begin the school year. I had to find a fast way
to get permission slips out to the homes and turned back. Instead of waiting for
the school to contact parents and then wait for permission slips to be returned I
decided to communicate with the parents myself. Once I began doing this the
permission slips began to come back! That may seem like a simple task too
many but learning how the school works and being respectful of [their way of
doing things] was not the easiest task. I find myself growing in so many different
ways, especially in the area of communication.
One of the blessings I have received was when one of our student’s name La’
Montreal met with his mentor he was very upset because his mother was in the
hospital and he was afraid she was not getting well. The teacher was very
concerned for La Montreal and reported that he was having a difficult time in
school. La’ Montreal told his mentor all about it during their session. His mentor
offered to visit his mother in the hospital. While at the hospital that evening La’
Montreal and his family was their and together they were able to pray for his mom
and the many needs of the family. The mother was very thankful that the mentor
cared enough to visit the hospital and have prayer with the family.
This was an opportunity for the family to be invited to church services as well. We
are praying for the family and are encouraged by the new relationship extending
beyond the mentoring relationship at school.
We are asking for the churches to join us as we pray for the staff and families of
William C. Abney Academy. That the families are drawn to God by our Christian
witness and Step Of Faith and Sherman Street Church continue to value this
outreach to the public school.
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