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We talk with Pastor Clark from the Grace Centers of Hope in Pontiac Michigan, (GCH) about the mission and vision of this organization that is helping people transform their lives with accountability and hope.
Show Notes
Grace Centers of Hope is Oakland County's oldest and largest homeless shelter formerly known as the Pontiac Rescue Mission. As an organization, our main priority is to help those who are hurting to regain confidence in themselves, renew hope in their futures, and restore their faith in God. We inspire change from the inside out by offering our One Year Life Skills Program. Our program is open to men, women, and children, from 18 to 81 years old, or older. The One Year Life Skills program gives our residents the resources needed to achieve the success they seek.
Pastor Clark shares a brief history of the organization and the miracles they've seen. Over 30+ years ago it was the old Pontiac Rescue Mission, which basically had the philosophy of feeding them, clothe them, and shelter them. After serving on the board and seeing the inside scoop he realized that was a great start but he wanted to see people get their life back. Many were addicted to drugs and/or alcohol and needed help transforming from the inside out and not the outside in.
Much of that has changed in 30 years. They've added life skills programs and other programs to help people restart their lives.
We talk about the impact of COVID-19. "This is the most unusual time I've ever lived in, and I've 76 years old." Pastor Clark believes they've been divinely protected. They haven't had a single case of COVID with 300 program members and 50 houses.
He is grateful for the supporters who also believe in the non-government-funded approach for coming alongside people who are addicted or homeless and giving them community and accountability. They have seen record-setting support from donors since COVID-19.
One of their best and biggest fundraisers is "The Night of Hope" This year it is a virtual event for the first time. They would love to have people register and watch the event because it fully funds the Children's program.
Pastor Clark shares the story of beginning the Children's program about giving $.50 per "A" on their report card. The kids embraced the challenge and 90% of the kids were on the honor roll! He gave over $800 that semester!
Pastor Clark shares a brief history of the organization and the miracles they've seen. Over 30+ years ago it was the old Pontiac Rescue Mission, which basically had the philosophy of feeding them, clothe them, and shelter them. After serving on the board and seeing the inside scoop he realized that was a great start but he wanted to see people get their life back. Many were addicted to drugs and/or alcohol and needed help transforming from the inside out and not the outside in.
Much of that has changed in 30 years. They've added life skills programs and other programs to help people restart their lives.
We talk about the impact of COVID-19. "This is the most unusual time I've ever lived in, and I've 76 years old." Pastor Clark believes they've been divinely protected. They haven't had a single case of COVID with 300 program members and 50 houses.
He is grateful for the supporters who also believe in the non-government-funded approach for coming alongside people who are addicted or homeless and giving them community and accountability. They have seen record-setting support from donors since COVID-19.
One of their best and biggest fundraisers is "The Night of Hope" This year it is a virtual event for the first time. They would love to have people register and watch the event because it fully funds the Children's program.
Pastor Clark shares the story of beginning the Children's program about giving $.50 per "A" on their report card. The kids embraced the challenge and 90% of the kids were on the honor roll! He gave over $800 that semester!
Creators and Guests
What is 3rd Act?
Welcome to the third act podcast. Shining a spotlight on individuals, charities, and small business owners suffering from illness, economic shutdown, or lack of support and funding. Meaningful conversations that generate compassion and financial support from listeners compelled to join us on this journey to share life experiences that improve the lives of others.