Blog

Rising temperatures are not just an inconvenience for your neighbors who don't have a place to live ... they're downright dangerous. When the heat and humidity rises, Mel Trotter enters "Code Red" to help protect those who are experiencing homelessness.

Mel Trotter Ministries remains open and continues to serve our struggling neighbors and our staff who are at high-risk of COVID-19.

For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind. - 2 Timothy 1:7

I was recently asked the question, "Why do I believe it is so important for all people to acknowledge and celebrate African American (black) history month?"

And as I ponder over the question I find myself flooded with a whirlwind of emotions. To know that my origin is tied to a country with rich resources and some of the world’s most memorable and powerful kings and queens in history is a joyous yet somber feeling because I’ll never know the exact location of my roots.

As we close out the first month of the new year, we reflect on the inspirational message that was shared at our last program graduation. Board member Janis Petrini, Owner of Express Employment Professionals of Grand Rapids, shared with our guests that day that God knows every chapter to their story. He is in every small detail and has plans for each and every one one of them. This was her message to the graduates…

On #GivingTuesday we shared a need for an outreach van and our community stepped up to meet that need. God has provided through you! Special thanks to Express Employment Professionals of Grand Rapids and Berger Chevrolet and every donor who helped make this possible so we can go out and express the compassion of Christ to our neighbors experiencing homelessness. Everyone, meet the “HOPE Van”!!

While volunteering may be performed with the intention of helping others, studies show that those who give of themselves also receive. Researchers have attempted to measure the benefits that volunteers receive, including the positive feeling referred to as “helper’s high”, increased trust in others, and increased social and political participation.

Tick tock...Tick tock… every second seems like forever. I wrestle to get comfortable. Turn left… quickly turn right… sigh. Is it the new PJs? Am I too hot or too cold? With my eyes wide open and excitement building, I realize sleep is far away right now. But I don’t care it is Christmas Eve and Christmas Day is right around the corner.

By watching Julius interact with the guests, it’s clear that he loves and values each one of them. He helps them see that God has more for them. “I just try to help them understand that God hasn’t given up on them. They always smile when I say that, but I remind them that God woke them up for a reason, they have another chance to better their lives…”

The truth is, we all are created special, by a Loving God, who doesn’t make mistakes. We all have the ability to be a superhero in creating peace and joy. We have the insight to see how to make a table where diversity is a strength. We have the willingness to create doors for others to have a chance to walk through. Dreams are our light of hope that pushes us to new levels of life purpose and fulfillment.