‘Hope In Action’ event shows power of volunteerism in SE Michigan
Hope In Action volunteers are pictured during the mid-May volunteer project in Pontiac.
Grace Centers of Hope (GCH) welcomed community members and corporate volunteer teams who rolled up their sleeves and took part in Hope in Action 2025, a two-day volunteer event aimed at beautifying and revitalizing the nonprofit’s campus and residential properties.
The event took place Friday, May 16, and Saturday, May 17, at Grace Centers of Hope, 35 East Huron Street in Pontiac, and at the nonprofit’s “Little Grace Village” neighborhood.
Previously known as “Picking Up Pontiac,” this annual initiative mobilized individuals, families, businesses, school groups, and faith communities to support men, women, and families rebuilding their lives through GCH’s Life Skills and Aftercare programs.
Volunteers engaged in meaningful service — including landscaping, painting, trash pickup, and minor home repairs.
‘Sense of unity and purpose’
“What stood out most during Hope in Action was the genuine sense of unity and purpose among everyone who donated their time to participate,” said Darin Weiss, CEO at Grace Centers of Hope.
“Hope in Action reminded us that real change happens when a community shows up with a shared commitment to serve.”
Among the major companies and organizations who supported Hope in Action were General Motors and DTE, who each brought 50 volunteers, and United Wholesale Mortgage with 20 volunteers.
Clawson High School brought 50 students to build a Hope Butterfly Garden, while Volkswagen and Mariner Wealth brought 10 volunteers each.
Projects were plentiful
Volunteer projects focused on Pontiac homes and facilities located on:
Seneca Street – Priming, painting, and landscaping;
Fairgrove Street – Exterior painting, landscaping, and cleanup;
Perry Street – Landscaping and painting, including GCH’s Women & Children’s Center at 210 Perry;
Moreland Street – Beautification and minor repairs; and
Hands of Hope Childcare Center – Landscaping and small gate installation.
Exciting new element
A new element for 2025, HOPE Stations were placed at select project sites, offering opportunities to learn about Grace Centers of Hope’s mission and how volunteer service directly impacts those overcoming homelessness, addiction, and vulnerabilities in our community.
There was also a Grace Centers of Hope pop-up Thrift Store at the registration site for volunteers and visitors to purchase select items handpicked for this event.
To learn more about Grace Centers of Hope’s mission, visit gracecentersofhope.org.
