Sample of Produce from Farm to Pantry Class
United Church Outreach Ministry (UCOM) is pleased to announce that Karrie Brown has joined the organization as Development Director. She brings with her over 10 years of experience working with non-profits advocating for social and economic justice for all community members.
“United Church Outreach Ministry has spent the past several years moving towards a new model of service for our community in southwestern Kent County. Our Culture of Health has spread across all of our programs and has launched new initiatives. In 2017 we expanded to include a low-cost Farm Stand which brings locally grown produce into our community. With these new services for neighbors, UCOM needs to ensure that funding is available and that it grows to match the needs we meet. Karrie will be working on raising funds as well as community awareness of the good work our staff and volunteers are doing to end poverty and to improve the health of our neighbors,” says Dr. Bruce Roller, Executive Director of UCOM.
Karrie most recently served as Executive Director at another Access of West Michigan Key Pantry, so she is aware of the mission and programs at UCOM as well as the need. “People are not just looking for resources; they are also searching for hope for a brighter future. UCOM walks alongside their neighbors to improve their quality of life. I am excited to be a part of this wonderful team. I look forward to gaining additional funding for UCOM’s ongoing financial stability so that we can continue to serve the ever changing needs of the community,” says Karrie Brown.
For more information on the Culture of Health and other programs at UCOM, visit www.ucomgr.org
United Church Outreach Ministry (UCOM) is a non-profit organization that provides material and educational assistance to help neighbors meet their basic needs, improve quality of life, and promote self-sufficiency. This is done through a variety of programs including a healthy choice food pantry, low-cost Farm Stand, Nutritional Options for Wellness (NOW) pantry, clothing pantry, and professional clothing closet. The ministry also provides classes in basic financial skills, healthy cooking and nutrition, gardening, Sit and Be Fit, as well as Workforce Development and income tax preparation for low-income working people. UCOM is an ecumenical agency of the United Church of Christ and is completely supported by private donations.
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