The SOURCE

The SOURCE was thrilled to have one of our Resource Navigators attend the Hiring Formerly Incarcerated Individuals Workshop hosted by TalentFirst and Calvin University - Calvin Prison Initiative. The day included a tour of the Richard A. Handlon Correctional Facility, where attendees learned about five vocational programs supporting incarcerated individuals’ re-entry. The group also heard inspiring stories from graduates who’ve successfully transitioned into the workforce. Back at Calvin, a panel discussed inclusive hiring practices, and teams worked through the 8 Steps for Leading Change in a SHRM workshop. That emphasized the importance of offering second chances and creating pathways for success. It was an inspiring day of learning, connecting with employers, and advocating for change. The work is just beginning, but we’re more committed than ever to breaking down barriers and opening doors for those ready for a second chance.

In observance of Veterans Day, the SOURCE will be closed on 11/11/2024. We take this time to honor and thank all the brave men and women who have served our country. Your sacrifices and dedication are deeply appreciated. We look forward to serving you again when we reopen on 11/12/2024.

The SOURCE is looking for a passionate individual to join our team and make a real impact in our community. If you’re driven, compassionate, and ready to help others, we want to hear from you! Apply for the Resource Navigator role by December 1, 2024. Send email and cover letter to [email protected]!

????Christmas Gift Assistance in Kent County - The holiday season is upon us, and while it’s a time of joy and giving, we know that for many families, making ends meet and providing presents for loved ones can be a struggle. If you’re in need of help this Christmas, it's important to act now—as many resources fill up quickly and have deadlines before December. Don't wait until it's too late! Here are some of the biggest organizations in Kent County offering Christmas assistance, but be sure to reach out ASAP to ensure you get the support you need: Salvation Army's Angel Tree Program – A well-known initiative that matches children and families in need with generous donors who provide holiday gifts. Apply early, as spots fill up fast! https://lnkd.in/gFzUFWrk Toys for Tots – Provides toys to children in need across the country, and Kent County is no exception. Sign up and register well ahead of time. https://lnkd.in/gzjsPMZP Santa Claus Girls - Santa Claus Girls of Kent County have served the community for over a 100 years and are viewed by the community as a conduit for anyone to support gift giving to children during the holidays season. https://lnkd.in/e7kUq_6 Kent County's Holiday Giving Programs – Local churches and community centers often partner with nonprofits to collect and distribute gifts. Reach out to places like United Way of Kent County or your nearest community center to inquire. Reminder: Many of these programs require applications in November, so don't wait until December to ask for help. The sooner you apply, the better chance you'll have at receiving support! If you know someone who could use a little extra holiday cheer, share this post and help them get connected with the resources they need.

We’re excited to highlight a fantastic benefit for our clients: Amway is proudly supporting Admission-Free November at Blandford Nature Center! This month-long initiative allows you, your team, and your loved ones to enjoy the wonders of nature at no cost. This is a wonderful resource for fostering community connections and promoting well-being. With a variety of scheduled activities, it’s the perfect chance to explore the outdoors and recharge. Feel free to share this opportunity within your networks!?

Celebrating Our Amazing Resource Navigators at The SOURCE! Monday was all about showing appreciation for our incredible resource navigators who work tirelessly to support our community. Their dedication, compassion, and expertise make a world of difference every day, and we couldn't be more grateful! To honor their hard work, we hosted a special Appreciation Day featuring Monica Sparks and her Mobile Happy Lights Wellness Relaxation Station. The relaxing atmosphere, soothing lights, and wellness services provided a perfect escape for our navigators to recharge and enjoy some well-deserved self-care. Thank you to all our resource navigators for your unwavering commitment and support! You inspire us every day. A big shoutout to Monica for bringing such a wonderful experience to our team! If you’re interested in her wellness offerings, check out her business here: https://lnkd.in/e6b9mzxC

Happy National Cat Day! Today, we’re celebrating all things feline and giving a special shoutout to the SOURCE staff’s adorable cats! From playful pounces to cozy cuddles, our furry friends bring so much joy and comfort to our team. Check out these cuties in action! Whether they’re lounging in sunbeams or causing a little mischief, they remind us of the happiness that pets bring into our lives. Share a photo of your own cats in the comments! Let’s spread the love for our purr-fect companions!

Last week, our incredible Program Manager, Angela Rincones, took the stage at the Michigan Senate Housing and Human Services Committee meeting. She spoke on the pressing state of childcare in Michigan and how it impacts working parents. Angela shared valuable insights from our team's expertise in resource navigation and tax filing, emphasizing the importance of policy changes that truly support families. We presented data and powerful stories to advocate for the Michigan Working Parents Tax Credit, a vital step toward easing the financial burden on parents across our state. We’re proud to be part of this important conversation and are committed to influencing policy that uplifts our community.

We’re thrilled to have attended the South Kent Chamber of Commerce's 2024 Economic Growth Summit! This event was a great opportunity to dive into the latest economic forecasts for our region. We gained valuable insights into key economic indicators over the past few years and heard predictions for 2025. Staying informed helps us better support our community's growth and navigate future opportunities and challenges. Here’s to a prosperous future for South Kent!

On October 16th, a few of our navigators had the incredible opportunity to attend the YPCC at the L.V. Eberhard Center at GVSU, hosted by Cascade Engineering. This event brought together over 125 young professionals of color for a day filled with networking, learning, and empowerment. We were especially inspired by keynote speaker Carlos Cubia (he, him) from Corewell Health, whose insights sparked important conversations. It was great to connect with fellow attendees, including our own Clementina I. and Erica Harris, who contributed to the energy and enthusiasm of the day! The breakout sessions led by BIPOC experts were enriching and provided a platform for sharing experiences and knowledge. We left feeling motivated and excited about the future of our community. Thank you to everyone who made this event possible! Together, we’re paving the way for future leaders.