"A Sanctuary in the City… Living Faith"

Kalamazoo Deacon’s Conference

The Kalamazoo Deacons Conference (KDC) is a local Kalamazoo organization that works each day to make Kalamazoo a better place to live. KDC recognizes the physical and spiritual needs of the poor in our community, and attends to these needs by sharing the love and hope of Jesus Christ. While other organizations in Kalamazoo meet the physical needs of the poor and the homeless, such as shelter, food, and clothing, KDC strives to fill the gap for the underserved and working poor of our community.

The Kalamazoo Deacons Conference views these challenges and opportunities through the lens of the love, power, and grace that we receive through the Holy Spirit for their work. KDC begins the day with an open invitation to spend time with the Scriptures and in prayer with the staff and those of the community who come to the building for support.

Assistance is given to those who are in need, through the DRS (Direct Response Servants), who take the time to listen and address the physical and spiritual needs of the individuals and families who come to KDC. Physical needs that are met include transportation (tokens), I.D. and birth certificates, clothing, food, personal hygiene items, household goods, furniture, and appliances. Building relationships and treating each guest with dignity is also a priority. Prayer is offered to those who request it, along with the use of a prayer room when needed or desired. Devotional material is always available. KDC assistance doesn’t end there. Their desire to help men and women grow and develop initiated the S.T.E.P program (Skills, Training, Empowerment & Purpose), which offers certified job training and certificates for both custodial training and retail sales. The implementation of more of these employment and development programs is in the future plans of KDC.