Every day, men, women and children walk through our doors searching for more than food or shelter — they are seeking a way out of poverty spiritually, emotionally and financially. Because of your generosity, that hope is becoming a reality for more people than ever before.
In 2025, Muskegon Rescue Mission continued its commitment to demonstrating and proclaiming God’s love through transformational care. Through case management, life-skills training, spiritual support and strong community partnerships, we are helping individuals and families rebuild stable, healthy lives.
This is what it means to be More Than a Mission. We are part of a community—churches, businesses, volunteers and donors—working together to ensure that every person who comes to us is seen, valued and given the opportunity to move forward with dignity.
And truly, this mission is shared. Together, through your service and generosity, we are giving our neighbors the support they need to rebuild their lives—now and for eternity.
As you read this report, I hope you see your compassion reflected in every story and statistic. Your support is restoring hope, strengthening families and opening doors to a brighter future.
Thank you for believing in this work and in the lives God is transforming through it. Together, we are helping people step into the future He has prepared for them.
Serving Together,
Dan Skoglund Executive Director
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Roger Doctor, President
Rick Ebeling, Vice President
Chris Thompson, Treasurer
Bryan Betten, Secretary
Dave Barham
Dan McKinnon
Patrick Wittkopp
Since 1907, Muskegon Rescue Mission has been serving individuals and families in West Michigan — offering hope, shelter and compassionate care in Christ’s name. We exist to demonstrate and proclaim God’s love to the homeless and less fortunate people of West Michigan.
Our vision is to see lives restored as individuals and families break the cycle of poverty through the hope of Christ.We meet immediate needs and walk alongside people as they build a stable future — spiritually, emotionally and financially.
OUT OF POVERTY
Transforming Lives from the Inside Out
Escaping poverty requires more than meeting immediate needs. It calls for transformation from the inside out — restoring hope, rebuilding stability and equipping individuals with the tools to move forward. Across our ministry, we are committed to walking with people as they strengthen the spiritual, emotional and financial foundations that lead to lasting change.
Spiritually Building A Foundation That Lasts
True and lasting transformation begins with Christ. When a life is built on anything else, the foundation eventually cracks under the weight of hardship, trauma or instability. But when men, women and children encounter the hope, forgiveness and identity found in Jesus, everything begins to change.
Through chapel services, Bible studies, prayer support and everyday encouragement, guests discover that they are loved, valued and created for a purpose. This spiritual foundation becomes the steady ground on which emotional healing and financial stability takes root — strong enough to support a renewed future.
Emotionally Strengthening The Heart And Mind
Emotional stability is essential for lasting change. Many who come to us carry the weight of trauma, instability or broken relationships — challenges that make it difficult to move forward.
Through supportive case management, life-skills coaching, consistent routines and connections to mental-health resources, guests begin to rebuild confidence and resilience. Step by step, they learn to manage challenges, form healthy relationships and regain a sense of hope.
Through budgeting support, financial coaching, employment readiness and access to essential resources, individuals gain the skills and confidence to build a sustainable future. This stability strengthens their spiritual and emotional foundations, helping them move forward with hope and independence. 2,031
FINANCIALLY EQUIPPING FOR LONG-TERM STABILITY
Financial stability is essential for lasting change. Many guests face job loss, debt, or barriers to steady housing and employment.
More Than Shelter: Building Pathways to Independence
For men, women, and children experiencing homelessness, basic needs like food, shelter, clothing, showers, and laundry can be hard to access. Our shelters provide these essentials while building trust and offering compassionate guidance. Through case management, life-skills coaching, and connections to community resources, we help guests regain stability, rebuild confidence, and take steps toward lasting independence and hope.
Tashiana Spencer
When Tashiana Spencer walks through the doors of the Women’s Shelter today, she does so not as a guest, but as a volunteer. First arriving at just 18 years old, Tashiana returned to the shelter during different seasons of her life before eventually transitioning into permanent housing three years ago. Today, she still lives in that home, providing stability for her growing family. Now a mother of five and expecting her sixth child, Tashiana volunteers with a full heart, eager to give back to the place that once supported her. Her journey has shaped her into a role model for the women and children currently staying at the shelter, offering both encouragement and hope. “They prayed over us and let us know we weren’t alone,” she shares — a reminder that even after setbacks, lasting change is possible.
William Evans
After a childhood marked by abuse, instability, and loss, William carried deep anger and emotional exhaustion into adulthood. A season of severe mental health struggles and the end of a relationship left him alone and out of options, leading him to the shelter. There, he found more than safety and care — he encountered genuine joy, meaningful relationships, and faith. Through chapel and the Man of Integrity program, William came to know Christ and began healing emotionally and spiritually. During his time in the program, he earned his GED, secured employment, graduated from the program, and ultimately transitioned into his new apartment. Today, William no longer sees himself as lost, but as someone growing in purpose and hope.
32,580 NIGHTS OF SHELTER
146,444 MEALS PROVIDED
27,036 CHAPEL ATTENDANCE
AVERAGE 90 GUESTS PER DAY
AVERAGE 14 CHILDREN IN SHELTER PER DAY
Our Food & Personal Care Pantry supports individuals and families during times when resources are stretched. We provide not just groceries and essentials, but dignity, encouragement, and a sense of community. Whether facing a temporary setback or ongoing challenges, guests receive practical help tailored to their household, with amounts based on family size to ensure their needs are met. Community members are welcome to visit once each month, knowing they are supported and valued every step of the way.
816 SATELLITE PANTRY VISITS
Jayhawk, Baker, Innovative Education Pantries
3,774 FAMILIES SERVED IN PANTRY A 42% INCREASE FROM THE PREVIOUS YEAR
665 FAMILIES SERVED AT ANNUAL THANKSGIVING BASKET GIVEAWAY
Community Resource Center: Empowering Our Community One Step at a Time
The Community Resource Center (CRC) takes a collaborative approach to meeting the needs of our neighbors. By
BY COMMUNITY PARTNERS
HOUSING ASSISTANCE - 658
EDUCATION - 157
HEALTHCARE - 522 VITAL DOCUMENTS - 242
Community Partner Spotlight: Thomas Toft
Each month, Thomas Toft, a tax attorney with the West Michigan Low-Income Taxpayer Clinic at Legal Aid of Western Michigan, brings critical tax support directly to guests at the Community Resource Center. By helping individuals resolve unfiled returns, identity theft issues, and delayed refunds, Thomas removes financial barriers that often stand in the way of stability. For guests focused on meeting basic needs, recovering owed refunds or resolving tax issues can be life-changing. Through one-on-one assistance and onsite education, Thomas provides clarity, reassurance, and protection from predatory tax practices — offering practical help and hope when it’s needed most.
5,829 PARTNER CLASSROOM HOURS
Community Partner Spotlight: Janet Perreault
Every Monday, Janet Perreault from Disability Network West Michigan meets with guests at the Community Resource Center to help them navigate disability benefits, Social Security, MDHHS programs, and employment supports. Janet listens closely to each person’s goals and walks alongside them through what can often be long and complex processes. In one case, she helped an older guest experiencing homelessness discover he qualified for survivor benefits, providing $1,000 a month in income. Janet believes the CRC’s collaborative, one-stop approach removes barriers like transportation and confusion, allowing guests to access support with dignity and hope.
Bright Futures Daycare & Preschool High-Quality
Care That Strengthens Families
Bright Futures Daycare & Preschool helps families overcome poverty by providing free to low-cost, high-quality childcare for low-income households. When children are cared for in a safe and enriching environment, parents are able to pursue employment, education, and long-term stability with confidence. Our commitment to excellence is reflected in ongoing staff training, the development of aides preparing for lead teaching roles, and partnerships with community organizations and outside agencies that offer enriching experiences such as cooking and dance classes.
Children thrive in a nurturing Christian environment grounded in consistency, creativity, and care. Through daily routines, age-appropriate Bible lessons, twice-monthly music sessions, and loving relationships with staff, they develop a strong sense of security and belonging. We are laying the foundation for academic readiness and lifelong hope — strengthening families today while helping break the cycle of poverty for the next generation.
FAMILIES AT BRIGHT FUTURES ARE
SAVING AN ESTIMATED $1,200/MONTH PER CHILD ON DAYCARE EXPENSES.
*Based on DHHS reimbursement for full-time care
As a part-time employee, Toby’s mom faced financial strain and the difficult decision of trusting someone else to care for her child. Enrolling Toby at Bright Futures allowed her to work more consistently and begin improving her family’s financial situation. During his time there, staff helped identify Toby’s speech delay and worked closely with his mom to support his development both at school and at home. Because she knows her son is deeply cared for and loved, she has been able to regain stability. “My family owes Bright Futures a lot,” she shares. “We are so grateful for the care and attention they give to Toby.
Toby’s Story
Kinyana’s Story
As a working mother of three young children, including twin toddlers and an infant, finding reliable childcare felt overwhelming. Initially hesitant about daycare, Kinyana’s fears were eased after meeting the Bright Futures team and learning about their values. Knowing her children are safe and well cared for allows her to work without constant worry. “Bright Futures has changed that narrative for me,” she says. “The staff not only care for my children, but they support me as a parent, too.
A Mother’s Gratitude
As a single mother working more than 45 hours a week, having a safe and nurturing place for her son is essential. Bright Futures has provided that peace of mind. “My son always has a big smile when he sees the staff,” she shares. The loving care and consistency he receives allow her to work confidently, knowing her child is in good hands. “From the bottom of my heart, thank you for everything you do.
Donate. Shop. Give Hope.
STORES
God has brought in his life. “I work for the Lord. I just happened to get paid for it this time,” he shares. That transformation has extended beyond him, helping bring stability to his family as well, including assisting his sister in securing housing and employment.
Shawn’s journey through the Mission led him from the shelter to employment in the Thrift Stores, where his humility, perseverance, and strong work ethic quickly stood out. Beginning as a part-time team member receiving donations, he steadily grew into leadership through consistency, honesty, and a willingness to learn. Today, Shawn helps oversee daily store operations and serves as a trusted leader within the retail ministry. His story reflects the purpose of the Thrift Stores — turning donated goods into meaningful work opportunities, restored lives, and lasting impact in our community.
2
3
Your purchases fund daily care for men, women, and children in crisis, while donations of gently used items stay local and directly bless families in our community. Shelter guests moving into permanent housing, as well as newcomers relocating to the area, receive a 50% discount to help them furnish a stable, comfortable home.
God changed my life, and now I get to help others change theirs.
— Shawn Kettler
1
6,413 ARTICLES OF CLOTHING GIVEN AWAY
Celebrating the churches, donors, volunteers and partners who make this work possible.
No single person or organization can do this work alone. Every life changed this year reflects the collective compassion of people who chose to serve, give, pray, and partner together. Donors, volunteers, churches, and businesses each play a vital role in helping individuals and families escape poverty spiritually, emotionally, and financially. This work is shared — and its impact reaches far beyond what any one of us could accomplish on our own.
Donors: Your Generosity At Work
Through generous financial support, donors make it possible to provide shelter, meals, programs, and pathways to lasting transformation. Every gift helps meet urgent needs while also investing in long-term solutions that restore dignity and stability for those we serve.
431 VOLUNTEERS
Volunteers: Serving with Compassion and Faithfulness
Volunteers bring heart and humanity to every corner of the Mission. By offering their time and talents they create meaningful relationships that encourage healing, growth, and hope. Their willingness to serve reminds our guests they are seen, valued, and not alone.
Volunteer Spotlight | Linda Samuel
"All God wants is your willingness, and He will do the rest. I wanted to do something meaningful — to help people feel like somebody cares and somebody loves them. That’s why I volunteer."
Churches: Partners in Ministry
Local churches extend God’s love beyond their walls by supporting this work through prayer, giving, and hands-on service. Together, we are demonstrating Christ’s compassion in tangible ways — helping neighbors take steps toward restored lives and renewed faith.
55 CHURCHES ACTIVELY SUPPORTING
Businesses: Partnering for Community Impact
Business partners strengthen our mission through financial support and sponsorships, job opportunities, and donation drives. Their commitment helps create pathways to stability while building a stronger, more compassionate community for everyone.
288 BUSINESSES ACTIVELY SUPPORTING
Businesses Spotlight | My Auto Group
“At My Auto Group, our purpose of connecting people through faith, family, and work aligns closely with Muskegon Rescue Mission’s mission to share God’s love across West Michigan. Through our My Lakeshore Subaru dealership and Subaru Loves to Help initiative, we’ve proudly partnered with them for over five years and seen their lasting impact firsthand.”
-Molly, My Auto Imports
CHANGE HAPPENS HERE
A New Chapter for Our Men’s Shelter
Because of the generosity of our supporters, this year we completed our fully funded $1.5 million Change Happens Here Campaign—a project that reimagined how we welcome and care for men experiencing homelessness at our Men’s Shelter and Food Pantry.
Key Improvements
• Tiered Shelter Approach A structured, individualized pathway that supports men at every stage of their journey.
• Shopping-Style Pantry Experience A dignifying model that allows guests to choose the items they need most while helping us better steward our resources.
• Flexible Building Design Adaptable spaces that improve safety, functionality and long-term program growth.
• Renovated Men’s Residential Wing A refreshed and modernized environment that fosters stability, recovery and hope.
APPROXIMATELY 87% OF ALL GIFTS ARE PUT INTO LIFE-CHANGING PROGRAMS.
Sources of Income
Muskegon Rescue Mission is privately funded and receives no government assistance or funding.
Memberships
Donate
Your donation goes beyond providing a meal. Whether it's a financial gift, an in-kind contribution, or a thrift store donation, every gift helps deliver essential services and life-changing programs to those in need in our community.
Volunteer
Want to make a difference? Volunteers are the heart of our programs and services. Discover how you can get involved and create a lasting impact today.
Pray
Become part of our community-wide Prayer Team and join us in praying for the mission's needs as they arise. There’s power in prayer, and we need you!
Tour
See the mission in action. Join us for our Monthly Lunch & Tour, held the third Wednesday of each month at our Men’s Shelter, and experience firsthand the impact happening in our community.
