July’s Wee Difference: The Guiding Light Mission

This month our charity that makes a Wee Difference in our community is The Guiding Light Mission.

The Guiding Light Mission has a history of helping the less fortunate in Grand Rapids that dates back to 1929. Providing food and shelter to all, and resources to men that support their social, physical, spiritual, and intellectual needs.

And on Wednesday and July 23, Guiding Light is opening its doors to provide a behind-the-scenes look at what the mission is doing to put men back on their feet and to work in Grand Rapids.

The Director’s B.L.T. (Breakfast, Lunch and Tours) with the executive director, Stuart Ray, on Wednesday and July 16 gives a look at what Guiding Light Mission means to our community. In addition to a tour of the facility, you also get to take part in a question-and-answer session with Ray, as well as hear the testimony of one of the men living at the mission.

You can attend either breakfast at 8 a.m. or lunch at 11:30 a.m., with an RSVP requested. To RSVP, contact Jessica Manfrin, development director, at (616) 451-0236, ext. 13.

Guiding Light is located at 225 S. Division St. in Grand Rapids, and offers faith-based programs to get men off the street and back to work. There are many ways you can help, either financially or with your time.

The Guiding Light Mission, in partnership with Holland Rescue Mission, last month had a grand opening for the Guiding Light Mission Upscale Thrift Store, 1435 60th Street SE in Kentwood. This is a new endeavor for Guiding Light, and part of its efforts to diversify offerings.