How We Work with Families
Families are pulled in many directions on a daily basis. As spiritual, relational and economic stability are challenged, families and ultimately communities become vulnerable to the impacts of poverty.
Westown families find encouragement, guidance and resources to meet these challenges at “The Other Way” Ministries. Families refocus, strengthen and grow by developing Christ-centered leadership skills that build community. Families investing in others as God has invested in them.
“The Other Way” Ministries is a Christian community development organization walking alongside Westown urban families, guiding them toward Christ-centered growth. Families discover spiritual direction, relationship growth and economic stability through a diverse range of services, programs and classes.
For over 40 years, “The Other Way” Ministries has been the place for people of all ages, races and cultures to find resources, grow stronger and experience restored community.
The better we know our neighbors, the better we can serve them. So, we focus on building relationships, listening with empathy and providing resources with dignity. This approach creates opportunity to guide Westown families to their best life through Christ-centered programs, classes and services.
Our Philosophy
Core Strategies
- Listening
- Coaching
- Training & Equipping
- Community Building Activities
- Hospitality / Follow-Up
- Co-op
Family Development
When families desire a deeper change, The Other Way Ministries is ready with Family Development. Families find spiritual direction, relationship growth and economic stability in personal and practical ways.
Family Coaching
A personal coach assists families in defining goals then strategies for making them a reality.
A personal coach assists families in defining goals then strategies for making them a reality.
Community Building Activities
A series of shared family meals, activities and learnings building the support network of community.
Family Wellness
A time tested, asset based program that promotes healthy communication habits in families.
A time tested, asset based program that promotes healthy communication habits in families.
Family Resource Co-op
Families access resources with dignity by earning credit as they actively participate in supporting others.
Community Development
Reaching out to Westown neighbors through a collection of programs, classes and services. Each one is tailored to fit a specific need for today with an eye toward building sustainable community growth for tomorrow.
Christmas Store
Empowering parents to provide for their own children at Christmas.
Empowering parents to provide for their own children at Christmas.
Leaders in Training
Developing Christ-like, cross-cultural community teen leaders.
Youth Ministry
Encouraging gifts within our youth through mutual relationships.
Loaves & Fishes Food Pantry
Serving 1,800 Westown families with emergency food assistance each year.
Bible Study & Discipleship
Studying and applying Biblical truth with children, teens and adults.
Job Search
Guiding the development of resume and interview skills.
Guiding the development of resume and interview skills.
Youth Employment Service
Offering teens summer employment and job training.
Family Camps and Retreats
Recharging and strengthening family relationships.
Garden of Eatin’
Growing produce and friendships through our community garden.
Money Management
Developing skills and perspective on the wise use of money.
Nursing
Connecting neighbors to GVSU Nursing students to promote healthy living.
Connecting neighbors to GVSU Nursing students to promote healthy living.
Avoid Marrying a Jerk/Jerkette
Clarifying qualities of a successful relationship and marriage with teens.
Advocacy & Referrals
Supporting and connecting neighbors to resources.
Christian Counseling
Offering hope through Christian Counseling Center and Pine Rest.
English as a Second Language (ESL)
Teaching the English language to our Spanish-speaking neighbors.
