Volunteer Opportunities:
Below are some of the areas you can volunteer.
working with guests
Volunteer in a variety of needs that will have you working directly with the guests at Mel Trotter Ministries. These volunteer roles are an integral part of our ministry, allowing you engage with guests in various ways throughout the Mission.
in the kitchen
Volunteer in the heart of our Mission by serving in the kitchen, where meals nourish both body and spirit. These roles are essential to our daily operations, helping prepare, serve, and clean up meals for our guests.
thrift stores
Volunteer at one of our thrift stores and play a vital role in supporting the programs at Mel Trotter Ministries. Whether you’re sorting donations, organizing merchandise, or assisting customers, your time helps turn gently used goods into life-changing resources.
adminstrative
Support the Mission behind the scenes by volunteering in an administrative role. From answering phones and monitoring emails to assisting with office tasks, your service helps keep our operations running smoothly.
outreach
Join our Outreach Team to meet people where they are—on the streets, in parks, or at community events. Whether you’re helping with the Mobile Shower Unit, distributing food, or offering essential resources, your presence brings dignity, hope, and the compassion of Christ to those experiencing homelessness.
facilities & maintenance
Join our Facilities Team to help keep our buildings and grounds safe, welcoming, and well-maintained. From landscaping and painting to basic maintenance tasks, your work ensures a clean and dignified environment for our guests and staff.
Register to Volunteer:
Already a volunteer? Click here to log in and view your account.
As an Individual
Make a personal impact by serving one-on-one with our guests or behind the scenes. Whether you have a few hours or want to commit regularly, there’s a place for you to make a difference.
As a Group
Rally your church, coworkers, or friends to serve together and create a meaningful shared experience. Group opportunities are perfect for team-building while giving back to the community.
As an Intern
Our unpaid internship program offers hands-on experience in a Christ-centered environment, allowing students and emerging professionals to grow their skills while serving those in need. Interns become part of the mission, contributing meaningfully to life-changing work.
In our Clinics
Use your medical expertise to serve those who might otherwise go without care. Whether you’re a licensed professional or a student in training, volunteering in our clinic helps restore dignity and health.
With the Ministry Team
Serve alongside our Ministry Team to offer spiritual support and encouragement to our guests and staff. Whether you’re leading chapel, praying with guests, or simply offering a listening ear, your presence helps share the love and hope of Christ.
For Court Ordered Community Service
Fulfilling court-ordered community service? We offer meaningful opportunities at our thrift stores and facilities where your time can contribute to real change.
Jamie’s Volunteer Story
Jamie began volunteering at MTM between four to five years ago, primarily with her colleagues from Union Home Mortgage. The company’s pledge against homelessness and commitment to helping people buy homes resonated with her, and she found herself drawn to MTM’s mission.
Read Her Story →
Make a monthly donation.
Join other monthly donors on a mission to prevent homelessness in West Michigan.
The Community is a passionate group of over 1,000 givers committed to giving month after month, bringing hope to our neighbors experiencing homelessness – and each month, they’re transforming more and more lives.
Donate monthly to Mel Trotter via the form or call (616) 454-8249
Transforming Lives
“It’s a really amazing program,” said Vanessa*. “After seeing my husband complete his GED, it gave me the courage to go get mine.”
Simon and Vanessa
Simon and Vanessa both grew up in the inner city. “Life was just life, so we got used to it,” she said. What that life looked like was this: Simon did not complete high school. He became a father as a teenager, prior to his marriage to Vanessa. Upon meeting her and starting their own family together, the couple wanted to further their lives.
*names and photos changed to protect the privacy of our guests
