History

A brief history of

The Other Way

Since 1967, The Other Way Ministries has walked along side Westown urban families as they strive to grow spiritually, relationally, and economically.

1967
1967
The Other Way Boy's Activity Center opens inside Frank's Meat Market with $500.00 from Ninth Reformed Church
1967
1973

Dick TerMaat is hired as first full-time ordained director

1967
1975

Organized Westown United Neighbors

1967
1981

Assisted in organization of Servant's Community Church

1967
1982

Expanded to Ministry and Family Camping

1967
1985

Acquired Pattock Furniture Building at 710 w. Fulton; purchased Garden Suite at 35 National

1967
1988

Purchased Gold Ave Mission property - became TOW Activity Center

1967
1989

Established Westown Jubilee Housing

1967
1991

Food Pantry joined ACCESS of West as a Key Pantry Resource Center

1967
1992

Christmas Store developed providing dignity to families

1967
1996

Opened Czarnecki Child Care Center; collaboration started with Christian  Counseling Center Project Hope

1967
2003

Collaborations established with Weed & Seed, Michigan Works, Pine Rest, and GVSU Kirkhoff College of Nursing

Lou Roossien begins as Executive Director

1967
2009

Opens Jean Czarnecki Family Center to focus on stronger, Christ-centered, families

1967
2011

The Other Way Legacy Partners is launched to reach the Westown area for generations to come

Wayburn Dean begins as Executive Director

1967
2012

Community Resource Center renovations complete

1967
2013

Activity Center & Wellness Center renovations complete

1967
2014

Kurt Reppart begins as executive director

1967
2015

Agape Co-Op opens

Little Lights Infant and Toddler Program opens

2016
TOW celebrates our 50th Anniversary
1967
2017

FRESH Farm Market open

1967
2019

Scott Bloem begins as executive director