Volunteer at Gateway Mission

God can use your time and talents to bring hope to someone in need.

Volunteers play an important role in the work happening every day at Gateway Mission. By preparing meals, organizing donations, helping with events, or serving behind the scenes, you help provide practical care and encouragement to homeless men, women, and children throughout Ottawa and Allegan Counties.

No matter how often you serve, your time impacts our guests and makes them feel welcomed, valued, and cared for.

Find the Right Way to Help

Volunteer on Your Own

Use your skills, interests, and availability to support Gateway Mission. We offer both one-time and ongoing opportunities at several of our locations for volunteering and community service.

Serve With a Group

Bring your church, workplace, school, family, sports team, or community group together for a meaningful service experience. Group projects vary based on our current needs and the size of your group.

SNAP Benefits Volunteerism

Opportunities are available for individuals who are volunteering to meet SNAP benefit volunteer hour requirements. All arrangements must be approved in advance.

Community Service Completion

Opportunities are available for individuals who need to complete court-ordered community service. All arrangements must be approved in advance, and eligibility requirements apply. Contact info@hopefoundhere.org to sign up.

Where You Can Make a Difference

Food Service

Help prepare, serve, or clean up after meals for guests at our Men’s Center or Women and Children’s Center. Each meal is an opportunity to offer nourishment, kindness, and the first step toward hope.

Gateway Store and Donation Center

Help sort donations, organize merchandise, stock shelves, clean, or support the daily work of the Gateway Store. The store helps fund the programs and services that care for our homeless neighbors.

Men’s Center

Support the staff and guests at our Men’s Center through meal service, special projects, activities, mentorships, chapel, and other opportunities based on current needs.

Women’s and Children’s Center

Help create a caring and welcoming environment for women and children staying at Gateway Mission. Opportunities may include meal service, activities, staff support, logistics assistance, organizing supplies, mentorships, leading devotions, and special projects.

Childcare

Support working Moms staying at Gateway and help create a caring and safe environment for their children during the day. Come support the staff in the care, education, and love for children in need.

Gateway Center

Serve through administrative projects, donor support, mailings, maintenance projects, and other behind-the-scenes needs.

Events and Seasonal Opportunities

Help with special events and seasonal programs such as the Great Thanksgiving Banquet, Christmas activities, donation drives, and community events.

Have an Idea for How You Can Serve?

Not every volunteer opportunity fits into a category. Whether you have a special skill to share, a group looking for a project, or an idea for serving from home, we would love to hear from you. Contact our volunteer team to explore how your time and talents could support the work of Gateway Mission.

What to Expect

Connect With Volunteer Coordinator

Reach out to our Volunteer Coordinator, contact information below. You will then be assisted through a registration and onboarding process, that includes a meeting and a tour to discuss the best volunteer role for you and your schedule.  

Come Ready to Serve

Once you are registered and have met with our Volunteer Coordinator you will receive your assignment and any information needed for your volunteer shift. Our staff will assist with training and help you understand your role when you arrive.

Where to Begin?

Our Volunteer Coordinator can help you find a role that fits you, your interests, abilities, group size, and availability.

Elizabeth Boersma
Volunteer Coordinator
volunteer@hopefoundhere.org
616-928-3408

Your Time Can Help Someone Find Hope

Every task matters. When you volunteer at Gateway Mission, you join a community of people helping our homeless neighbors receive practical care, experience the love of Christ, and take steps toward lasting change.