GRACE regularly provides a variety of services for the area’s congregations and the larger community, attempting to enhance cooperation among the various groups, clergy and “diversities” of our community. Staff regularly provides pulpit supply, teaching and consultation with representatives or committees regarding ministry issues and responds to frequent questions regarding the religious or social justice arena.

GRACE Board and Staff serve as religious community representatives on various boards and projects including: Emergency Food and Shelter Local Board, West Michigan HIV/AIDS Consortium, the Kent County Emergency Needs Task Force, Heart of West Michigan United Way Cabinet and the Public Policy Committee, and the West Michigan Strategic Alliance.

GRACE (along with ACCESS) serves as a resources link for the religious community in the event of a major disaster in Kent County. The Interfaith Disaster Readiness Plan and Congregation’s Role in Disaster Response documents are both available on this website.

The GRACE office includes those of the GRACE affiliates in ministry. ACCESS (All County Churches Emergency Support System) provides emergency food, clothing and assistance toward self-sufficiency. FISH FOR MY PEOPLE responds to transportation needs. Both agencies retain their program autonomy and separate funding. Organizational support is provided by GRACE to Church Women United, Compassionate Friends and the Interfaith Dialogue Association. This includes meeting space, address, phone and mailing services.

The GRACE Board of Directors also endorsed the following position statements:

• Urgent Call Recommendation—a request for actions by the faith community calling on governments to reduce the nuclear threat (January 15, 2003)
• Rosa Parks Circle (May 7, 2001)
• Opposition to Proposal B/Physician Assisted Suicide Referendum (October 8, 1998)
• Senior Millage Endorsement (September 23, 1998)
• Concealed Weapons (May 18, 1998)
• Urban Sprawl Resolution (April 16, 1998)
• Grand Rapids Public Schools Bond Issue (March 18, 1998)
• Marriage Policy (April 15, 1997)