The end of the school year is just the beginning of what God can do through you this summer. At Grace Christian University, we believe that students are called to live lives of purpose and service. That calling doesn’t pause when classes end, and this summer, there are powerful ways for you to serve right here in West Michigan.
Below are several organizations where Grace students can volunteer, build relationships, and make an eternal impact. If you’re passionate about youth, homelessness, hunger, or community restoration, there’s a place for you.
Mel Trotter Ministries
What They Do: Homeless services, food distribution, crisis support
At Mel Trotter students can commit to a consistent shift each week, serving meals in the dining hall, helping in the women’s or men’s shelters, or sorting donated clothing and essentials. Over time, this consistency allows you to build trust with those you serve and witness real transformation in their lives. You’ll also work alongside staff and volunteers grounded in Christ, growing your heart for justice and compassion.
Dégagé Ministries
What They Do: Meals, shelter, and services for low-income individuals
Serving opportunities at Dégagé include serving dinner or helping run the hygiene center on a regular basis. By showing up weekly, you’ll become a familiar and trusted presence for guests who may be navigating deep hardship. Dégagé also encourages relational ministry, taking time to listen, pray with guests, and affirm their dignity as image bearers of Christ.
Kids’ Food Basket
What They Do: Fighting childhood hunger in West Michigan
Students can join a weekly volunteer shift at Kids Food Basket to help pack sack suppers, healthy, ready-to-eat meals that go home with thousands of local kids every school night. Some Grace students even start “snack drives” at their churches or organize on-campus packing sessions. Regular volunteers often develop leadership roles within the warehouse team and help train others.
ICCF Community Homes
What They Do: Affordable housing, home rehab, and neighborhood revitalization
Work crews meet regularly to help paint, clean, landscape, and rehab housing units throughout the area. For Grace students interested in physical work, construction, or social justice, this is a great way to live out your faith tangibly. Serving at ICCF Community Homes builds both practical skills and spiritual endurance. You might also get to meet the families moving into the homes you’ve helped restore.
Bridge Street Ministries
What They Do: Urban youth ministry, discipleship, and neighborhood outreach
Students can serve at Bridge Street Ministries every week with middle and high school students through tutoring, sports, Bible studies, and community dinners. Students from Grace often lead small groups or assist in BSM’s Discipleship House. By serving consistently, you’ll build mentoring relationships and see the impact of walking with youth over time. This is frontline ministry in one of Grand Rapids’ most diverse neighborhoods.
Our Daily Bread Ministries
What They Do: Global Christian publishing and ministry support
Serve at Our Daily Bread Ministries in administrative roles, shipping, events prep, or content support. This is a great fit for students studying communication, media, or business. Weekly volunteers often assist in organizing large mailings, helping with quality control, or managing resources for global distribution. You’ll see how the Gospel goes out in print and online to readers around the world.
Local Churches
Many area churches welcome volunteers for consistent summer ministry support. Grace students have served weekly by teaching in children’s ministry, running tech during Sunday services, assisting youth pastors, or leading worship. Ask about needs at:
Serving consistently at one church for the summer can be deeply transformational. You’ll become part of the congregation, build relationships, and grow in leadership as you give back.
Why It Matters
Galatians 5:13 reminds us, “Through love serve one another.” Summer is a season to lean into that calling.
At Grace Christian University, we prepare students to be courageous ambassadors for Christ. That means living your faith in real ways, right here, right now. These opportunities are about meeting needs, showing up, being present, and letting the love of Jesus flow through you.
Let this summer be one of transformation, not just for those you serve, but for you too.
If you’re interested in organizing a group outing or need help choosing a place to serve, reach out. We’d love to help you take the next step.
