2024 Spring Newsletter
Hello, Friends of Grace’s Table!
I'm thrilled to announce our significant milestone - the 10th anniversary of our journey alongside teen mamas, made possible by your support.
Grace’s Table began with a simple commitment: to create a place where teen mamas find support, belonging, and skills to reach their potential. It started with one mama in our first week; by the second, five more joined us. Through word of mouth, our community organically grew, connecting with over 220 teen mamas and their children in 2023.
As we look ahead to a year of expansion and growth, let's take a moment to appreciate all we've learned in our first decade.
Today, it's fitting that my dear friend, the brave first mama to walk through our doors, shares her Grace’s Table experience with you.
Enjoy!
The First Mama
Grace's Table has been a transformative experience in my life, providing me with a strong sense of belonging and support during a crucial period. As a young mother, I often felt isolated and overwhelmed, unsure of where to turn for guidance and resources. However, Grace's Table became my sanctuary, offering a community of like-minded individuals who understood the unique challenges of being a teen parent.
The group provided me with valuable resources that helped me improve both my own life and the life of my child. Through workshops, counseling sessions, and educational programs, I gained the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate parenthood with confidence. Grace's Table equipped me with practical tools and guidance. These resources not only empowered me as an individual but also enabled me to provide a better life for my child.
During the most difficult moments of my life, Grace's Table stood by me. The members of the group walked beside me, offering unwavering support and encouragement. They became my second family, a source of strength and inspiration when I needed it the most. Their belief in my abilities and their constant encouragement gave me the resilience to overcome the toughest times.
The impact of Grace's Table on my life was so profound that it inspired me to give back to the community. Grace's Table not only provided me with a sense of belonging but also instilled in me the importance of community and support. I will forever cherish the memories and lessons from my time with Grace's Table, as they have shaped me into the confident, resilient, and compassionate person I am today.
-The First Mama
Last year, thanks to champions like you, we were able to serve an incredible 222 teen mamas and 249 children. That’s 466 lives that were empowered to break the cycles of generational poverty and build stable, fulfilling lives for themselves and future generations.
Resilient families start with resilient mamas! We want to see Grace’s Table mamas empowered to care for both their physical and mental health. Thanks to a grant from the West Michigan Perinatal Quality Collaborative, we’re ramping up more opportunities for mamas to grow together! In March, we’re partnering with local doulas and healthcare educators in our new series, ‘Bump, Birth, and Beyond’. Every week, our mamas will gather to learn more about mental health coping skills, birth planning, postpartum support, and advocating for their healthcare treatment.
Upcoming Events
May 2 | Not-Your-Mama's Mother's Day
Save the date for our spring fundraiser! Early Bird pricing is now available!
July 24 | Back Yard Bash
Save the date for our summer get-together!
October 2 | Illuminate Hope Gala
Save the date for our annual Gala, where we will celebrate 10 years of serving teen mamas and their families!
This year, you have the opportunity to provide ongoing support to our families by becoming part of our monthly giving community, Spark. This community ignites hope for families every day.
In honor of our 10-year milestone, we are looking for 100 people to commit to a monthly gift of $25 during the remaining 10 months of the year.
Will you join us?
Welcoming Andy
We are very excited to introduce you to our newest team member, Andy!
Andy brings lots of experience, knowledge, and creative energy to Grace's Table.
Introducing: Donor Accounts
In case you missed it, Grace's Table recently got an upgrade! Now, you have the ability to create and manage your own donor account. This means you now have easy access to tax documents, payment methods, and recurring donation schedules.
Download the instructions for setting up your account below!
