VIS News

August 2024

Empowering Christians to join Christ's work in their community.

Back-To-School

"Commit to the LORD whatever you do, and He will establish your plans...In their hearts humans plan their course, but the LORD established their steps."

Proverbs 16:3 & 9

It is that time of year! Backpacks are filled with crayons, new notebooks, and sharpened pencils. God asks us to commit all we do to Him! He promises to lead and establish our steps. We can step forward into a new school year with confidence knowing that the Lord has a purpose for everything He created including the school year ahead.

As students and teachers return to school, it's time for ADULTS to return to the classroom as well! Check out the wonderful VIS Training Opportunities happening this fall to coach church leaders as they equip their members for works of service. Save your spot TODAY!

Apply Today!

Join Our Team!

VIS is adding a part-time (20-24 hrs/wk) Casework Connections Associate to our team. This individual will play a key role in coordinating and connecting volunteers with service opportunities (especially transportation requests) and assist with the intake of new VIS Friends (clients) and new ministry requests. Come join a team that loves Jesus and is passionate about mobilizing the people of God for service! Learn more TODAY by contacting Cori at cscholtens@visgr.org or checking out VIS's Employment Application page.

Deacon Training:

September 2024

You have been asked to serve as a Deacon! (Now what?)

Join VIS as a new or returning deacon to discuss the following topics: Benevolence, Stewardship, Justice and Mercy, and Community Engagement. This training is not about denominational systems but rather about a Deacon's role to lead through service, building Christ's kingdom one life at a time.

WHEN: VIS is offering two opportunities for training

Monday, September 23 from 1-3pm
Thursday, September 26 from 6:30-8:30pm

LOCATION: Calvary Christian Reformed Church at 3500 Byron Center Ave SE, Wyoming 49519

RSVP: Click HERE to save your spot or call the VIS office at 616-459-7500.

To learn more, check out the VIS Website or contact Bernita Tuinenga at btuinenga@visgr.org.

Benevolence Training:

October 2024

It is Biblical to care for the physical needs of the people around us. If you have a heart for generosity, service, benevolence, outreach, and coming alongside others as they navigate life's challenges, THIS TRAINING IS FOR YOU!

WHEN: Three session training on Tuesdays October 8, 15, and 22 from 6:30-8:30pm

LOCATION: Kentwood Christian Church at 5841 Kalamazoo Ave, SE, Grand Rapids

WHO SHOULD ATTEND: Anyone who makes decisions about the stewardship of benevolence funds and charitable giving. Individuals helping those in need or are the first to answer the phone when a congregation member or community member calls the church in crisis. Deacons, trustees, elders, lay leaders, first responders, church administrators, staff, outreach committee members and any interested church members.

RSVP: Click Here to save your spot or call the VIS office at 616-459-7500.

Benevolence Training focuses on the Biblical foundation of benevolence, understanding a life of poverty, and a posture of "Guide but Don't Decide."

To learn more, check out the VIS Website or contact Bernita Tuinenga at btuinenga@visgr.org

Ada Bible's SERVE GR 2024

Serve GR is a local serving opportunity for middle and high school students through Ada Bible. Volunteers In Service was one of the local nonprofits Ada Bible partnered with to identify service opportunity for their students in July. These students put their faith into action, serving across our community as they learned they are Created, Called, and Gifted to serve! Hey Lifeline Students, THANK YOU for serving our VIS Friends with love, compassion, and grace!

Living Out the Mission

Here at VIS, we call clients "VIS Friends." This better describes the relational nature of our work. When a VIS Friend and a Volunteer connect, relationships develop. Ultimately, this relationship witnesses Christ's love and points towards a relationship with Jesus! It is not unusual for these relationships between Volunteers and VIS Friends to evolve into true friendships. There are numerous examples over the years of Volunteers + VIS Friends ---> Mutual Friendship! Your financial support fosters these meaningful relationships where volunteers and VIS Friends over time enjoy Bible study together, support each other through health challenges, celebrate birthdays and holidays together, talk on the phone regularly, and mourn together through loss.

THANK YOU for your support! Your donations equip volunteers to "Live Out a Mission" of love and service while fostering life-long relationships based on compassionate service and Christ's love!

DONATE

Opportunities to Serve!

VIS has a wonderful list of opportunities to serve in our local community! Click on the VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES button below. If you are able to assist or would like more information, please contact VIS at 616.459.7500 or email Debbie at dbjones@visgr.org

DRIVERS NEEDED: Interested in driving a VIS Friend to a medical appointment or the grocery store or the food pantry? We are ALWAYS seeking volunteer drivers!! Call VIS at 616.459.7500 to learn more.

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

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