August 6th, 2026
By: MLive
It’s a story that can stem from job loss. Or maybe it’s on account of a large, unforeseen expense. A broken relationship may even bring it about. Homelessness is a story with many different beginnings.
Whatever the scenario, nearly half the country lives one major crisis away from homelessness becoming part of their story. Part being the key word, because homelessness is not the end of the story.
Rooted in the compassion of Jesus Christ, Mel Trotter Ministries (MTM) offers individuals and families experiencing homelessness in West Michigan a path to stability through an array of comprehensive services.
Guests at the nonprofit’s 550-bed shelter enter not only a place to safely sleep but a gateway to the resources that help them build a promising future.
The circumstances required for long-lasting success can look different among those experiencing homelessness, and MTM’s triage staff assists guests to achieve their best life through a variety of services with love and dignity.
For guests who identify a goal of securing a livable wage, MTM’s workforce development program equips individuals with both technical and soft skills to find and keep a job. These programs have recently integrated as MTM Workforce, forming a holistic model that sets a new standard for workforce development.
“We can teach the hard technical skills of manufacturing, carpentry and culinary, and get people into jobs, but it’s those soft skills, or I’ve heard them referred to as durable skills, that keep you in a job,” said Courtney DeBoer, Director of Workforce Development.
Durable skills like communication, problem-solving, self-management and emotional intelligence are integral in the modern workplace environment, no matter the industry. A recent report from ZipRecruiter even highlighted that 93% of employers consider these skills critical in their decision about whom to hire.
Participants in MTM Workforce practice these skills through a six-week period. DeBoer said the program navigates its participants through confronting workplace conflicts, having beneficial conversations with employers and coworkers, elevating their resumes and more.
Many guests have debilitating barriers when it comes to employment, and this program aims to instill work readiness skills.
“There’s grace in there,” DeBoer said. “They’re humans who have insurmountable barriers that they’ve run up against. They are hoping we’re their next step and launching pad.”
Take one former guest, who, in search of a fresh start, returned to Grand Rapids from New York following the death of his fiancée and two daughters. He was referred to MTM and enrolled in the program.
He said the program allowed him to learn about job readiness skills, self-control and keeping his attitude in check, which all contributed to newfound confidence in sustaining employment. He now works on the City Services crew, helping clean and maintain areas throughout Grand Rapids.
Beyond the program, guests can continue their skills training through various workforce tracks, like culinary, woodworking and carpentry.
In these industry-specific trainings, prior experience is not necessary. DeBoer said MTM simply looks for individuals to be reliable, follow instructions and practice safety measures in filling the entry-level work opportunities.
These paid, training-through-employment programs collaborate with local partners on projects that can range from commercial builds to infrastructure maintenance needs, lumber processing to window and door installation, and much more.
The holistic approach enables participants to focus on their educational goals while preserving stability in their daily lives. MTM’s partnerships with community organizations and careful coordination of services creates a strong foundation for building long-term success.
Participants in the MTM Workforce program receive financial management support, case management, meals and medical services, all delivered through a trauma-informed, faith-centered approach.
And while a background in faith isn’t required to access these programs, DeBoer said the morning devotions add a vital relational aspect for the guests.
“A lot of people have burned bridges or been burned by other people in the past,” she said. “It’s helpful to have shared experiences and be able to talk openly about those things and realize they’re all doing the best they can.”
MTM supports program participants, every step of the way from learning to earning. From the beginning, they strive to eliminate the obstacles that would prevent someone from consistent participation.
Designed for those with limited experience or who’ve been out of the workforce for an extended period, no one is denied entry due to background, criminal history or other similar factors.
Those interested in the programs can fill out an intake form here.
The comprehensive nature of the programs regularly produces long-term positive outcomes. DeBoer has seen a range of inspiring progress, from steady steps to huge leaps, emerge from these programs.
Among her favorite memories is a former couch surfer who felt hopeless in what to do to move forward. A year after completing the program he returned to MTM, not seeking shelter, but to share he’s still at his placement, thriving, and found a small apartment of his own.
DeBoer said there are even former graduates prospering in their work to the extent where they’re climbing the ladder into the top tier parts of the companies.
There are also guests who live in Hope Village — MTM’s tiny home community. Guests at Hope Village pay rent but part of it is saved for them to use as a down payment or deposit toward a new residence.
“It’s great to see people find their own success, whatever they define that to be,” DeBoer said.
And it takes a community to help author these success stories. Ready to compassionately transform vulnerable lives across West Michigan? Donate time, money or resources to support MTM Workforce.
It’s an impact that helps turn the page for many West Michigan community members.
Learn more about MTM Workforce at meltrotter.org.
