Category: Press Release

Amplify GR hires education director and communications manager with strong local ties to further strengthen service, support for community

Welcome, Erek and Jenny!

Erek Kooyman and Jenny Griffin have joined the team to serve as the organization’s education director and communications manager, respectively. Kooyman and Griffin join Amplify GR in an extended period of growth, as the organization has hired five new team members since launching several years ago to expand and sustain its commitment to the neighborhoods it serves.

“A growing team allows us to further connect, create and amplify opportunities for neighbors,” said Jon Ippel, executive director for Amplify GR. “Erek and Jenny both grew up in the Boston Square neighborhood and have a passion for the community, but they also bring with them unique skillsets and experiences that will be an asset to our organization as we continue to work closely with our partners to widen pathways for stronger neighborhoods.”

Erek (left) with Amplify GR colleagues Jon Ippel (middle) and Jermale Eddie (right)

As the education director, Kooyman will lead and coordinate education efforts for Amplify GR, including developing a long-term strategy for ensuring all children in the community have access to high-quality PK-12 education, which prepares them to enter college or the career of their choice. In addition, Kooyman will act as a liaison to neighborhood schools and collaborate with nonprofit organizations, colleagues in philanthropy, and government officials to develop, fund, and leverage new educational initiatives in support of students.

Kooyman brings more than 16 years of experience in the field of education, including his most recent role as an educational consultant for Amplify GR. With a well-rounded background in student instruction and faculty development, Kooyman is skilled in identifying educational growth opportunities within the community. Additionally, his expertise in the societal structures surrounding education gives him a nuanced understanding of the resources needed to support the academic, social and emotional growth of local children in schools across the Grand Rapids community.

“Being an educator myself, I have seen first-hand the importance of equitable opportunity and investment in order for students, teachers and schools to thrive,” Kooyman said. “Investing in the education of children is an important aspect to strengthening community. I look forward to working with our great partners in education to improve outcomes in the neighborhood schools.”

With Griffin as the incoming communications manager, she will work closely with the executive director to set the strategic communications plan and vision. Griffin will also lead promotion and oversee the education of external audiences regarding the shared vision, goals and strategies of holistic community development. She will work closely with the Amplify GR team, partners and community stakeholders to highlight stories in the neighborhoods served.

Having spent nearly 17 years working in public relations and strategic communications in agency, corporate and nonprofit settings, Griffin will play a significant role in executing the partner and neighbor communications for Amplify GR. Griffin most recently served as communications manager for the West Michigan Center for Arts and Technology (WMCAT). With vast nonprofit and industry experience, Griffin is uniquely positioned to take on this key role with the organization that is embedded within her own neighborhood.

Jenny (left) with Amplify GR board member and neighbor, Andrea Owens

“As a third-generation resident of Boston Square, I feel incredibly privileged to take on a position that allows me to raise the voices of neighbors,” said Griffin. “Southeast Grand Rapids is full of passionate individuals that care about their community, and after intentionally moving back into the neighborhood, I’m looking forward to supporting the community that has supported my family for nearly 50 years.”

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About Amplify GR
Amplify GR seeks to widen pathways so that more residents can participate and benefit from neighborhood growth in Boston Square, Cottage Grove and surrounding areas. Through partnerships with residents, businesses, community organizations and funders, Amplify GR works in four areas of impact: jobs and entrepreneurship, housing, education and community wellbeing.

Amplify GR celebrates the promotion of Latesha Lipscomb and Bethany Underwood

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (Jan. 5, 2020) – Amplify GR, a local nonprofit committed to widening the pathways for residents and businesses on the southeast side of Grand Rapids, today announced the promotion of Latesha Lipscomb and Bethany Underwood to director of engagement and operations manager, respectively.

“The elevation of two Black women into positions of leadership at a key nonprofit in the Grand Rapids community is vital to the city’s continued growth,” said Lipscomb. “There is still a lot of work to be done to address equity in our communities, but a great place to start is by honoring and uplifting the voices of Black and Brown women, like my colleague Bethany, whose work has been essential to the forward progress of key projects over the past several years.”

In her new role, Lipscomb, who joined the Amplify GR team in 2019, is responsible for managing day-to-day engagement efforts, executing community events, and working closely with neighbors and local leaders to further uplift community priorities.

“It’s been an honor to be a part of the vital work taking place in Grand Rapids,” said Underwood. “I’m looking forward to the opportunity to continue working with my colleagues, such as Latesha, and our community partners toward a more equitable future for all neighbors. To that end, Latesha has played a crucial part in further strengthening relationships between our organization and local residents.”

Underwood has been with Amplify GR since its founding in 2017, having served as the organization’s operations coordinator. In her new role, she will be responsible for administrative, financial and communications support for the organization.

“Latesha and Bethany are integral members of our team and these promotions are reflective of their impact on our organization and, more importantly, the community we are privileged to work with,” Amplify GR Executive Director Jon Ippel said. “The past several months have been incredibly challenging for our community, impacting the way we work together. Through their engagement and operational efforts, along with the support of our entire team, we were able to develop a Community Partnership Agreement in collaboration with the Boston Square Neighborhood Association, Oakdale Neighbors and the City of Grand Rapids, which helped move a project critical to the future success of the neighborhood and its residents forward.”

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About Amplify GR

Amplify GR seeks to widen pathways so that more residents can participate and benefit from neighborhood growth in the Boston Square, Cottage Grove and surrounding areas. Through partnerships with residents, businesses, community organizations and funders, Amplify GR works in four areas of impact: jobs and entrepreneurship, housing, education and community wellbeing.

 

10-Acre Development Project in Boston Square Approved for Rezoning

Boston Square Together partners move forward with plans to increase equitable outcomes and widen pathways for all in local neighborhood

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (Aug. 26, 2019) —  Amplify GR, Boston Square Neighborhood Association  and Oakdale Neighbors are pleased to announce that the City Commission has approved the group’s Planned Residential Development (PRD) request for rezoning a 10-acre site in the heart of Boston Square. As a result, community development dedicated to widening pathways in a neighborhood that has experienced decades of inequity can move forward to the next phase. The Commission’s vote took place after a year-long collaboration between neighbors, business owners, community stakeholders, the City of Grand Rapids and the three local nonprofit organizations to ensure the development project includes more equitable opportunities throughout Boston Square.

The nonprofits formed “Boston Square Together” (BSQ Together) last summer and have since collaboratively developed a shared vision alongside residents that included an Initial Voluntary Equitable Development and Community Partnership Agreement (CPA). Rezoning of the area allows BSQ Together partners to begin the development process on critical assets to the community, including the provision of more affordable housing options, increased opportunities for home ownership, an early childhood learning center and an entrepreneurship hub where local businesses can incubate their ideas and passions. These amenities and several others were identified and ideated last year during three open house events hosted in the neighborhood by BSQ Together.

“As a lifelong resident of the Boston Square Neighborhood, I have longed to see a long-term vision implementing positive changes within our community,” said Pastor Kenneth Hoskins, executive director of Oakdale Neighbors. “I believe that the Boston Square Together Project will initiate that type of change. Not only am I looking at this opportunity from a residential prospective, but I also have the prospective as a partner in this project representing Oakdale Neighbors.”

A critical component of the collaboration process was the development of the CPA.  This agreement creates a shared framework of how community development reflects neighborhood priorities and has been coined by City staff as “a model for other neighborhoods to follow.” The CPA outlines a variety of housing, economic and community amenity goals that require shared responsibility for greater collective impact and frames a set of neighborhood priorities that a group of committed organizations, implementation partners and residents will work together to achieve over the next 15+ years to create more equitable outcomes in Boston Square.

“Our number one priority has been and will remain to collectively provide neighbors access and opportunities to benefit from neighborhood growth,” said Jon Ippel, executive director of Amplify GR. “We’ve held important conversations with residents, taken desired community assets from previous area specific plans and are now ready to execute the vision created with neighbors that is inclusive of those who live, work and play in Boston Square.”

“Boston Square Neighborhood Association (BSNA) has been advocating for neighbors early on in the development process,” said Victor Williams, cofounder of Boston Square Neighborhood Association. “BSNA is excited to walk alongside neighbors through the next steps in this process as we continue to hear their voice and include their wisdom in the process, as we feel working together collaboratively will provide realistic and equitable solutions for our community.”

After a year of engaging with local neighbors and community leaders, the partners of BSQ Together are committed to achieving the following:

  • Affordable housing options for a wide range of income levels
  • Homeownership opportunities on both the site and surrounding neighborhoods
  • High-quality and sustainable design
  • Dedicated community spaces
  • Emphasis on construction contracts for minority, women and 49507-owned companies
  • Neighborhood-based construction employment opportunities
  • Dedicated spaces for local business ownership, with an emphasis on reflecting the diversity of 49507
  • High-quality Early Childhood Learning Center
  • A future design that integrates an equity-focused approach to HEART for all: Health. Education. Arts. Recreation. Technology.

A true community-based initiative, BSQ Together is committed to ensuring the continued involvement of local voices throughout the development process. To that end, the group plans to hold public meetings in the coming months to share plans with neighbors and partners.

To learn more about BSQ Together, visit www.bostonsquaregr.org. For more information about Amplify GR, Boston Square Neighborhood Association and Oakdale Neighbors, visit www.amplifygr.org, https://www.facebook.com/BostonSquareNeighborhoodAssociation/ and www.oakdaleneighbors.org.

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About Boston Square Neighborhood Association

Founded in 2019, The mission of the Boston Square Neighborhood Association is to improve and enhance the quality of life, renew pride, and promote community awareness by coming together through an authentic resident voice on issues of beautification, home ownership, safety, security, and other resident driven concerns.

Learn more about Boston Square Neighborhood Association at https://www.facebook.com/BostonSquareNeighborhoodAssociation/

About Oakdale Neighbors

Oakdale Neighbors is a Christian Community Development Organization established in 1996, with a vision to help create a neighborhood of vitality and grace by discovering, developing, and connecting neighbors’ skills, and resources. The organization believes that all people and neighborhoods have God-Given gifts and assets. Its mission is to invite residents and local institutions to act collectively to create a stronger, safer, more caring neighborhood where all people and gifts are welcome.

About Amplify GR

Amplify GR seeks to widen pathways so that more residents can participate in and benefit from neighborhood growth in the Boston Square, Cottage Grove and the surrounding areas. Through partnerships with residents, businesses, community organizations and funders, Amplify GR works in four areas of impact: Jobs and Entrepreneurship, Housing, Education and Community Wellbeing.

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (July 8, 2020) – Amplify GR, a local nonprofit committed to working with community partners to widen pathways to success for residents in the 49507 zip code, today announced the continuation of its “AMP the Good” grant program. “AMP the Good” funds initiatives supporting projects that build connections and relationships within the Boston Square and Oakdale neighborhoods.

The grant program, which launched in 2018, has funded more than 40 neighborhood-based projects that strengthen the health, safety and economy of the local community. Past projects include the development of a community garden, a small park that provides opportunities for fellowship in the neighborhood, a community clean-up and after school programming for neighborhood children.

Grant applicants can apply for up to $1,000 for project ideas that support collaborative projects intended to enhance the vibrancy and vitality of the community while honoring neighborhood culture, traditions and values.

“Now, more than ever, it’s imperative that we advocate for and uplift initiatives in the community that are amplifying the lives and priorities of neighbors,” said Latesha Lipscomb, Engagement and Relationship Manager at Amplify GR. “We’re proud to support new ideas and existing neighborhood-led initiatives by providing the financial resources necessary to kick-start these important projects.”

Applications for the grant will be reviewed on a rolling basis and all projects must be completed by December 31st, 2020.

To learn more about the grant program,  click here.

To listen to Latesha Lipscomb’s interview with Shelley Irwin at WGVU, click here.

Amplify GR Welcomes New Director of Economic Opportunities

Local nonprofit hires director to help enhance entrepreneurial opportunities in Southeast Grand Rapids

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (Feb. 10, 2020) – Amplify GR, a local nonprofit committed to widening pathways for residents and businesses on the Southeast side of Grand Rapids, welcomes Danielle M. Williams to its team as Director of Economic Opportunities. Williams brings with her a breadth of experience in partnership development and community engagement – two skillsets that will be instrumental in her new role.

“With the addition of Danielle to our team, Amplify GR is poised to continue connecting entrepreneurs with the resources needed to build their businesses,” said Jon Ippel, executive director for Amplify GR. “Danielle’s expertise will be an asset in strengthening economic pathways for neighbors, as she has been an integral player in large corporate teams, nonprofit structures and local municipal work. Her experience working in these environments is valuable to our partnerships with businesses and community entrepreneurs.”

As Director of Economic Opportunities, Williams will identify and help activate business ownership and employment opportunities for neighbors.  Williams will work with employers to ensure their business practices align with the organization’s employment goals including:

  • Employing neighborhood talent
  • $15 per hour wage with benefits
  • Career advancement opportunities
  • Felon-friendly hiring

Williams, an entrepreneur herself, most recently served as principal at DMWilliams Consulting LLC, a change-management and communication firm she launched in 2017. She brings expertise in global business-to-business communication, as well as more than 20 years in the philanthropic and not-for-profit landscape.

“Amplify understands that wealth building and access to quality jobs is essential to a community’s financial stability,” said Williams. “Having grown up in this community, I am excited to leverage the many assets and programs available in Grand Rapids to spur an economic resurgence on the Southeast side.”

About Amplify GR

Amplify GR seeks to widen pathways so that more residents can participate and benefit from neighborhood growth in the Boston Square, Cottage Grove and surrounding areas. Through partnerships with residents, businesses, community organizations and funders, Amplify GR works in four areas of impact: jobs and entrepreneurship, housing, education and community wellbeing.

 

 

Amplify GR and the Early Learning Neighborhood Collaborative
Partner to Strengthen Neighborhood Through Education

Collaboration Developed to Bring New Early Childhood and Family Support Center to Boston Square

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (January 2, 2020) – – Amplify GR is partnering with the Early Learning Neighborhood Collaborative (ELNC) to build a new 12,000 square foot early childhood education and family support center in the heart of the Boston Square neighborhood. The center will serve young children from six months to five years old and provide education, health services, and holistic support for families. The anticipated completion of the project would be fall of 2021.

For years, Dr. Nkechy Ezeh, a longtime Grand Rapids leader and founder of the ELNC, has advocated for greater access to early childhood learning to support young children across the community. Serving children and families since 2011, ELNC is a manifestation of Dr. Ezeh’s passion to prepare future generations and equip parents to be their children’s first teachers.

“My heart is full because this opportunity is close to home for me,” said Dr. Ezeh. “We will finally get the chance to create a new center for children and families to grow and learn in my own neighborhood and community.”

IFF, a mission-driven lender and real estate developer, is working with ELNC and Amplify GR to develop the facility. The nonprofit agency has consulted on the creation of more than 170 early childhood education facilities across the region, supporting the creation of more than 5,000 early education slots. Additionally, IFF has provided more than $60 million in direct financing to early education facilities in the region.

IFF’s 2018 research study assessed the supply and demand for early childhood education and childcare in Grand Rapids, finding that only about half of the 12,000 kids in need of care were able to access it – and that about two-thirds of that need existed in just one-third of the communities. The Southeast End area ranked in the top 10 for overall need.

In addition to supporting the ELNC in achieving its mission, it is Amplify GR’s goal to further strengthen neighborhoods by ensuring access to an excellent educational pipeline for children and families, that beginning with quality early childhood education that prepares children for success throughout their academic years. This comes with the understanding that cultivating the well-being of families and supporting them across their lifespan is among the most powerful ways to position children and families to reach their potential and contribute to their own communities.

“When people in our community look at our new early childhood and family support center and recognize the investment has been made for nearly 100 children to learn, grow, and be supported yearly—it is going to speak volumes,” said Ashanti Bryant, education director for Amplify GR. “We are grateful for the alignment in vision between Amplify GR, ELNC and IFF to make this a reality for so many young children and their families.”
In addition to the services the center will provide, it is expected that it will also bring up to 20 new jobs to the Boston Square and Oakdale area.

About ELNC

The vision of the ELNC is to build a community where all children, regardless of the neighborhood in which they live, are able to thrive developmentally and educationally, allowing them to fully embrace their God given potential and become self-sufficient adults. www.elncgr.org

About Amplify GR

Amplify GR seeks to widen pathways so that more residents can participate and benefit from neighborhood growth in the Boston Square, Cottage Grove and surrounding areas. Through partnerships with residents, businesses, community organizations and funders, Amplify GR works in four areas of impact: jobs and entrepreneurship, housing, education and community wellbeing. https://amplifygr.org/

About IFF

IFF is a mission-driven lender, real estate consultant, and developer that helps communities thrive by creating opportunities for low-income populations and individuals with disabilities. Since 1988, IFF has provided $907 million in flexible, affordable financing to nonprofits serving a variety of sectors – affordable housing, health care, education, community development, and more. These investments have leveraged $2.9 billion, developed more than 26 million square feet of real estate, and impacted communities by creating more than 6,700 child care slots, 50,000 school seats, 370,000 new patient visits, and 10,700 units of affordable housing. www.iff.org.

CONTACT:
Elise Pelletier
epelletier@lambert.com
616-233-0500

Amplify GR Welcomes New Engagement and Relationships Manager

Local nonprofit continues to expand and grow its team by welcoming new manager

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (Jan. 6, 2019) – Amplify GR, a local nonprofit committed to widening the pathways for residents and businesses on the southeast side of Grand Rapids, is growing its team by welcoming Latesha Lipscomb as its manager of engagement and relationships.

“Latesha brings with her a wide breadth of experience in community engagement, and we’re honored to have someone with her impressive skillset and experience join our team,” Amplify GR Executive Director Jon Ippel said. “As we seek to create more opportunities in the neighborhoods Amplify GR serves, we’re eager to connect our neighbors with the resources necessary to be a part of community growth. We’re confident Latesha will serve our neighbors well by fostering relationships and collaborating for stronger and more inclusive neighborhoods.”

Prior to joining the Amplify GR team, Lipscomb served as the community engagement project manager for the City of Grand Rapids Design & Development Planning Division, where she supported the City in its objectives to uplift resident voice and build leadership capacity in neighborhoods. Prior to joining the City, Lipscomb served as a Housing & Family Services Advocate for the Inner City Christian Federation (ICCF), as well as a family engagement parent representative for Family Futures, Great Start Collaborative and the Early Childhood Development Corp.

In her work with such organizations like the Grand Rapids African American Health Institute (GRAAHI), Lipscomb has become an advocate for those with quieter or muted voices in the city’s most vulnerable communities.

In her new role, Lipscomb will be responsible for developing and executing community engagement strategies in partnership with residents and key stakeholders.  Lipscomb will work to increase Amplify GR’s direct engagement with the community by building community trust, cohesiveness and fostering neighborhood-level leadership through facilitation of the Neighborhood Advisory Committee and the Amp the Good Mini-grant program. She will also be responsible for assisting with the development of the overall community engagement strategy, managing day-to-day engagement efforts, executing community events, and working closely with neighbors and local leaders to further uplift community priorities.

“As a results-driven agent of change, I am excited for this opportunity to generate collaborative partnerships that expand greater opportunities for more residents in our community,” said Lipscomb. “I look forward to identifying, initiating and deepening relationships with neighbors in the upcoming months as we work toward improving quality of life, increasing equitable outcomes for all and making our neighborhoods stronger, together.”

About Amplify GR

Amplify GR seeks to widen pathways so that more residents can participate and benefit from neighborhood growth in the Boston Square, Cottage Grove and surrounding areas. Through partnerships with residents, businesses, community organizations and funders, Amplify GR works in four areas of impact: jobs and entrepreneurship, housing, education and community wellbeing.

CONTACT:
Elise Pelletier
epelletier@lambert.com
616-233-0500

 

Amplify GR launches new Scholar Strong program with three SE Grand Rapids schools

Scholar Strong offers funding for STEAM, literacy, college and career readiness, and
leadership development programming

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (June 2019) –Amplify GR, a local nonprofit, recently partnered with three Southeast Grand Rapids schools to introduce Scholar Strong – a mini-grant program designed to support our community’s students by encouraging teachers and staff to develop and implement innovative and experiential instructional projects that motivate and challenge students to learn and achieve. The three area schools include: Dickinson School, Hope Academy of West Michigan and River City Scholars Academy.

Under this program, more than 20 teachers from the three area schools have received grant funding for learning experiences revolving around STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math), literacy, college and career readiness, and leadership development. Scholar Strong mini-grants allow teachers to apply for up to $500 in funding from Amplify GR for classroom projects and learning activities.

“Our youth are vital to the future of our city, and with adequate opportunity and investment, they demonstrate strong potential and can contribute to their own communities,” said Amplify GR education director, Ashanti Bryant. “We’re grateful for the opportunity to partner with local and national organizations to provide resources to the next generation, and we look forward to expanding our relationships with community schools and organizations for the 2019-20 academic year.”

The Scholar Strong program also seeks to assist teachers by providing resources that reduce the financial burden many feel by having to purchase supplies for their classrooms. According to a national survey, 94 percent of traditional public school and 88 percent of charter school teachers have paid for classroom supplies out -of-pocket due to budget shortfalls.

“The Scholar Strong mini-grants gave our staff the opportunity to finance projects we’ve dreamed of implementing but didn’t have funding for previously,” said Dickinson Elementary School teacher Heather Quamme. “Through the grants, we’ve provided our students with a wide variety of experiences that will further enrich their lives.”

Scholar Strong grants have funded classroom activities such as a STEAM workshop, student-led community gardens, and off-site learning experiences, including a prey and predator simulation at Blandford Nature Center and visits to the Grand Rapids Public Museum.

“We appreciate the Scholar Strong grants because we are able to provide additional opportunities and experiences for our students,” said River City Scholars Principal Holly Hilary. “We hope other organizations will join Amplify GR in this wonderful initiative providing vital support to our students and teachers. By working together as a community, we can have a tremendous impact on the future of our children.”

In addition to supporting community schools through the Scholar Strong program, Amplify GR recently partnered with the World Literacy Foundation to provide local elementary students up to five books to take home on World Book Day. This summer, the organization is rolling out additional education-based programming in conjunction with community partners to help reduce summer learning loss.

To learn more about the Scholar Strong, visit www.amplifygr.org.

CONTACT:
Elise Pelletier
epelletier@lambert.com
616-233-0500

Nonprofits partner to provide free books
to local students

Monday-Wednesday, April 22, 23 and 24, 12- 3 p.m.

Reading is the cornerstone to a successful education. Unfortunately, many children don’t have books at home to strengthen their reading skills. To promote early childhood literacy, Amplify GR, a nonprofit committed to advancing Grand Rapids communities, is celebrating World Book Day by partnering with the World Literacy Foundation and three local schools to provide young children up to five books to take home. Amplify GR welcomes the media to participate in World Book Day by joining them, the World Literacy Foundation and school employees for the distribution of books to the students at the three area schools:

Hope Academy
Monday, April 22 from 12-3PM
River City Scholars Academy
Tuesday, April 23 from 12-3PM
Dickinson Elementary
Wednesday, April 24 from 12-3PM

WHO: World Literacy Foundation, Hope Academy, River City Scholars Academy, Dickinson Elementary and Amplify GR

WHAT: In conjunction with World Book Day, the World Literacy Foundation and Amplify GR are partnering to provide students at three local elementary schools up to five books to take home.

WHEN:
Monday, April 22 12-3 p.m.
Tuesday, April 23, 12-3 p.m.
Wednesday, April 24, 12-3 p.m.

WHERE:

Hope Academy (Monday)
240 Brown St SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49507
River City Scholars Academy (Tuesday)
944 Evergreen St SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49507
Dickinson Elementary (Wednesday)
448 Dickinson St SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49507

CONTACT:
Elise Pelletier
epelletier@lambert.com
616-233-0500

Fifty homeowners in SE Grand Rapids make critical repairs to their homes with funds from new nonprofit collaboration

The Neighborhood Strong program has provided homeowners with more than $300,000 for home repairs

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (May 7, 2019) – Homeowners in the Cottage Grove, Boston Square and Madison Square neighborhoods of Southeast Grand Rapids are now able to make critically important repairs to their homes at a fraction of the total cost, thanks to support from a new nonprofit collaboration called Neighborhood Strong. Launched April 2018, the partnership between Home Repair Services and Amplify GR has provided more than $300,000 to 50 homeowners from the area.

Funding for home repairs is dependent on income and grants provided with a 15-25% copay by homeowners. Residents can receive up to $8,000 for home repairs, including, but not limited to, updating heating and cooling systems, repairing roofs, and installing handicap-accessible entrances.
“Neighborhood Strong is a program created by residents for residents, with the intent to keep homeowners in their homes,” said Amplify GR Community Engagement Director Willie Patterson. “We are committed to building partnerships within the 49507 ZIP code that combat the ever-rising cost of homeownership. To that end, we are grateful for Home Repair Services dedication to this initiative, as we recognize that part of making a community stronger begins with improvements within the home.”

“Home Repair Services and Amplify GR have been such a blessing to my family, and I hope they continue to work together to help people like they did for me,” said Oakdale resident Santos Rivera, who received funding assistance with a furnace. “Both organizations are great resources for our neighborhood, and I hope the Neighborhood Strong program never stops.”

Funded by Amplify GR, the grant is a resource for all families in the area and helps guide recipients through the process of obtaining quotes, gathering necessary documentation and potentially connecting with additional neighborhood resources. Those interested can apply by reaching out to the program’s housing specialist from Home Repair Services, who is also a resident of the area.

“Our mission of strengthening homeowners with the resources needed to not only stay in homes, but to flourish, aligned perfectly with that of Amplify GR,” said Joel Ruiter of Home Repair Services. “We know that neighborhoods where confident, invested homeowners exist are vibrant communities. Through Neighborhood Strong, we’re further delivering on that vision. Watching Neighborhood Strong come together with the help and creativity of the neighbors was an incredible privilege for us.”

In reflecting on the program’s first year success, Deborah Armstrong of Home Repair Services said: “It’s been an absolute joy to meet these homeowners and work together to make their homes safer. Many of them have long histories in the neighborhood, and I feel with each improvement, Neighborhood Strong is honoring their commitment and contributions.”

To learn more about the homeowners grant, visit https://www.amplifygr.org/homeowners-grant/.

About Amplify GR

Amplify GR seeks to widen pathways so that more residents can participate and benefit from neighborhood growth in the Boston Square, Cottage Grove and the surrounding areas. Through partnerships with residents, businesses, community organizations and funders, Amplify GR works in four areas of impact: jobs and entrepreneurship, housing, education and community wellbeing.

About Home Repair Services

Home Repair Services is a unique non-profit organization that is celebrating its 40th anniversary in 2019. Its mission is to strengthen vulnerable Kent County homeowners because strong homeowners build strong communities. It carries out its mission by offering a repair program for lower income homeowners that ensures a dignified pathway for critical health and safety repairs including access modifications exists in our community.

Home Repair Services also offers a robust series of self-help programs that are designed to equip and empower people to improve their own homes. From hands-on skill training and remodeling support to home inspections to financial coaching and foreclosure prevention, these programs are free and open to residents regardless of their income.

CONTACT:
Elise Pelletier
epelletier@lambert.com
616-233-0500

Abandoned Grand Rapids Commercial Property Given New Purpose

R&R Mechanical Services relocates, stimulating business growth and local economy

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (May 16, 2019) – R&R Mechanical Services, in partnership with Rockford Construction and Amplify GR, announced its relocation to the newly renovated 8,000 square foot property at 433 Crofton in Grand Rapids’ Cottage Grove neighborhood. The refurbished building, which sat vacant for approximately five years prior to being purchased by Amplify GR in 2017, will now serve as headquarters for R&R Mechanical Services and its 32 employees.

“We grew up, played and went to school in this community,” said Ruben Ramos, owner of R&R Mechanical Services. “When we outgrew our previous space a few blocks away, it was vital to us that we remain in the same neighborhood and continue to serve the residents and businesses that have supported us for the last 10 years. We are grateful for the opportunity to work alongside Rockford Construction and Amplify GR, as both organizations share our values and dedication to invest in Cottage Grove and surrounding areas.”

R&R Mechanical, a full-service HVAC company, intends to add more members to its growing team, with a sincere commitment and purpose to hiring local talent from within the community.

“We have found tremendous talent in our own backyard,” said Ramos. “We are passionate about giving back in various ways but most importantly by providing employment opportunities for all and offering access to careers through training and certifications for skilled trades.”
The company is eager to realize its full potential through streamlined, single-site operations and enough facility space for workforce development and training opportunities for employees and community members. The renovation project, led by Rockford Construction, took eight months and a $700,000 investment by R&R Mechanical, and brought a substantial amount of work to the neighborhood, much of which was completed by local, minority-owned enterprises.

“We have worked with R&R Mechanical for several years and knew this project would be a great fit for collaboration,” said Brad Mathis, project executive for Rockford Construction. “This building was restored very intentionally, from the contractors hired to work on the project to its intended use.”

“R&R Mechanical is a great example of the type of community-centric businesses we hope to draw to the Boston Square and Cottage Grove neighborhoods,” said Jon Ippel, executive director for Amplify GR. “As we strive to further invigorate abandoned buildings in Cottage Grove, we are committed to working with businesses that support the community’s vision to widen pathways for more residents. We are thankful for R&R’s commitment to local hiring and job training.”

R&R Mechanical has been an active participant in the communities it serves since its inception, with executives and employees serving as part of the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, the Madison Square Business Association and the Mexican Heritage Association, among other organizations.
To learn more about R&R Mechanical, visit www.rrmechanicalsvs.com. For more information about Amplify GR and Rockford Construction, visit www.amplifygr.org and www.rockfordconstruction.com.

About R&R Mechanical

At R&R Mechanical Services we are the best in skill, attitude, and training. With over 45 years of combined experience and proudly service the Grand Rapids, MI community is a testament to our commitment to our customers. The relationships we have formed over the years with manufacturers means we can give you the highest quality equipment and the most affordable prices. Give us a call at 616-452-6888 today. We promise you will be happy with your decision.

About Amplify GR

Amplify GR seeks to widen pathways so that more residents can participate and benefit from neighborhood growth in the Boston Square, Cottage Grove and the surrounding areas. Through partnerships with residents, businesses, community organizations and funders, Amplify GR works in four areas of impact: jobs and entrepreneurship, housing, education and community wellbeing.

About Rockford Construction

Established in 1987, Rockford Construction (Rockford) is a nationally-recognized construction, real estate development, and property management, provider. Rockford is licensed in 45 states and ranked by Engineering News-Record as one of the top 200 contractors in the nation. With regional offices in the Midwest and Southeast, Rockford has built projects totaling more than $4.8 billion of various size and scope in more than 800 cities across the country. More information at rockfordconstruction.com

CONTACT:
Elise Pelletier
epelletier@lambert.com
616-233-0500

1480 Kalamazoo Ave SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49507
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