Message from our Executive Director | | |
What comes to my mind right away when I consider “Heart Month” is the amazement of a developing baby’s heart that begins to beat as early as 21-22 days after conception has taken place.
We had the opportunity to celebrate the Sanctity of Human Life on January 29th. What a joy and privilege it was to take a break from the routine events of the week and stop to worship, pray, and thank God for the beauty of human life while worshipping our Mighty God. We are thankful to all who were able to join us.
Psalm 139 is an incredible Psalm that speaks so clearly about the Lord’s care in creating a new person:
with purpose and intent. God has a plan and purpose for every life He creates. Alternatives exists to promote the value of human life by serving women and men in our communities! As we link arms together, we can and are showing people that not only do we value the lives of developing babies, but we value every life. We are so thankful for your partnership that provides us with the opportunity to show Jesus' love to every person we serve, and to see them as Jesus does.
“For you formed my inward parts; you knitted me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are your works; my soul knows it very well.” Psalm 139:13-14
Cathy Stoner, Executive Director
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When a woman walked into Alternatives for her first appointment, she was new in more ways than one. Having just moved to Battle Creek, she was adjusting to a new city. She had begun watching church services online and opening a Bible. It was all new to her, and she had never committed her life to Christ.
During her visit, she shared her story with one of our advisors in a calm, welcoming space. The advisor walked her through the Gospel—explaining God’s love, grace, and invitation to a personal relationship with Him. Our client shared that she was ready to take that step of faith. In the appointment room, she prayed the prayer of salvation.
This is the heart of what happens at Alternatives. People come through our doors seeking help, answers, or support—and often discover hope and truth. Thank you for being part of a mission that makes moments like this possible.
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Please join us in praising the Lord for answering so many prayers regarding our urgent need for a Sexual Risk Avoidance Instructor. God has answered in a big way, and we are happy to introduce Hannah Greendyk–our brand new education team member! We look forward to onboarding Hannah, and we know she will be a tremendous asset to our mission!
A little about Hannah:
Hannah lives in Kalamazoo with her husband and three young children. She holds a bachelor’s degree in education and brings a passion for supporting students and promoting public health. As an SRA Instructor, she is committed to equipping young people with the knowledge, skills, and confidence they need to make healthy and informed decisions for their futures.
Please join us in praying for her ministry!
Upcoming Classes
Parenting classes are resuming in our Kalamazoo and Battle Creek centers and the Kalamazoo Gospel Ministries-- all in the month of January! Classes will resume at the Calhoun County Jail in February.
Please keep these classes in your prayers as we seek to equip parents and lead them to the LORD!
For more information on Alternatives' education and classes, click the link:
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February 26th at 6pm:
You are invited to join us for an informative tour of our Battle Creek Center as we share about the mission and passion we have for the men, women and families in our community. A light dinner will be provided. This event is free, but space is limited. Please reserve your spot.
We can't wait to see you!
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Client Reviews from the Clinic
After an STI test in Kalamazoo, a client left us a review stating, "This visit was very impactful, and it made me want to go deeper with my relationship with Christ."
Another client shared, "Everything is great for now, therefore I do not have anything to say. Thank you to all Alternatives staff for what you have done for my family!"
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Clinic Prayer Requests
Please pray for our volunteers and for our new Battle Creek Center to be used to God’s glory. We trust that He is already bringing the people we need. Pray especially for client-facing advisors and for courage and clarity for those considering volunteering.
| | | Sign up to receive prayer requests for specific clients—shared in a way that protects their privacy while inviting powerful intercession. | | | |
Amy Drikakis
Battle Creek Clothing Room
1 Year
Amy is one of our incredible volunteers who quietly makes a big difference behind the scenes. She picks up clothing donations, carefully sorts and washes them, irons when needed, and returns everything to Alternatives ready to be hung in our clothing room. Her care ensures every item is clean, dignified, and ready for someone who needs it. As if that weren’t enough, she and her husband also donated a brand-new washer and dryer to Alternatives—an extraordinary gift that will support our work for years to come. We’re deeply grateful for her generosity and heart for service.
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Alternatives provides material assistance to our clients. We accept gently used items such as maternity outfits, children’s clothing sizes preemie - 5T, toys, and strollers.
Our current urgent needs include:
- Baby Wipes
- Clothing Size 18m or larger
- Diapers: Size 4, 5, 6, 7
- Pull-Ups 3T/4T and 4T/5T
| | | While most items for our clothing room are donated to us, additional items can be found on our Amazon Wish Lists, such as diapers, formula, wipes, and car seats, which must be new and in the original packaging. If you wish to help fulfill these needs, please click below. | | | |
Open Volunteer Positions
Alternatives is blessed with a diverse community of people who use their God-given talents and skills to strengthen and support this ministry.
Right now, we are seeking volunteers to serve in the following areas:
- Reception - Battle Creek
- Nurses - Kalamazoo and Battle Creek
- Advising (Male & Female) - Battle Creek
- Clothing Room Volunteers - Battle Creek
If you feel that one of these volunteer roles fit your gifting, please contact our Volunteer Coordinator, Debbie Koenig.
| | The Battle Creek staff appreciates the opportunity to be invited into MI Works every Monday to share about our ministry and invite Pathway Program participants to obtain their volunteer hours at Alternatives. It's a beautiful partnership that has blessed us immensely and has given us a chance to engage with those who haven't heard of the services and resources that we provide. | | | The Battle Creek Center is excited to be setting up a booth at the Kellogg Community College Bruin Boost on February 4th. We have a heart for reaching young people, and we’re grateful for the opportunity to connect with students and share the love of Christ within the campus community. | | Join Our Team - Current Staff Positions | | Registered Diagnostic Medical Sonographer | |
As a Registered Diagnostic Medical Sonographer (RDMS), you will combine your technical expertise with compassionate patient care. Your primary responsibility will be performing limited obstetric ultrasounds to verify pregnancy, providing clients with both information and reassurance.
This role calls for strong clinical skills, excellent communication, and the ability to connect positively with clients and collaborate effectively with staff. Make a meaningful impact while using your expertise to support families in our community.
| Clinic Quality Assurance Director | |
Are you a state-licensed RN passionate about making a difference in people’s lives? As our Clinical Quality Assurance Director, you will lead the development, implementation, and ongoing management of all Alternatives medical programs, ensuring excellence in care and compassionate service to every client.
This is more than a leadership role—it’s an opportunity to shape programs that transform lives, support families, and advance our mission in the community.
| | | Stay Connected! Follow us on socials: | | | | Alternatives Care Centers | 4200 W Michigan Ave, Kalamazoo | 215 E Roosevelt, Battle Creek, MI 49006 US | | | | |
