Michigan—The name says it all—Neighbor To Neighbor (N2N). It is a Seventh-day Adventist Community Services Center in Berrien Springs, Mich., which “provides assistance to families and individuals” in a warm, Christian, family atmosphere. N2N, which started as a simple church-aid endeavor in the 1920s, has grown to include the Thrift Store and Family Emergency Services program, which is supported by more than 60 volunteers.

From Monday through Thursday, dedicated volunteers process more than 1.5 tons of donations received weekly. N2N partners with seven area Seventh-day Adventist churches and is located near Andrews University. Food, clothing, bedding, furniture, and household items are given to students, individuals, and families in crisis. These items are also available for sale at attractive prices in the Thrift Store.

Some of those assisted live in the immediate surroundings; however, beneficiaries and clients alike come from as far as Van Buren, Cass, and other counties. Originally, N2N was simply a relief agency where clients were interviewed, their need was assessed, and then they were given things the workers deemed necessary. The partnership between N2N and the Social Work Department at Andrews University facilitates more needs assessments. Also, with the new Thrift Store (which is also open to the public on Tuesday and Thursday), clients are given vouchers for necessities and have the opportunity to choose their own supplies. Other items are available for purchase from the customer’s own funds.

One of our major challenges is not enough space. Within the last year N2N has grown considerably, increasing the need for space. This lack of space limits the volunteers' ability to function efficiently. Creative ideas have helped maintain the morale of volunteers; however, the need for more space is becoming progressively urgent.

On-going recruitment is another challenge which needs to be addressed. These situations limit the extent to which the volunteers can ultimately fulfill the mission of the organization.

Within recent times, N2N has been involved in many outreach endeavors. Some of their programs include distribution of layettes, Christmas baskets, and books and clothing through Prison Ministries. N2N supports overseas missions and at scheduled times hosts and/or sponsors free massages for seniors and babies, health and wellness seminars, first time home buyers seminars, and domestic violence focus groups.

There has been recent discussion about a five-year plan that could include either a new building or a significant expansion to the present structure. This would facilitate the many new community development programs that the management team dreams of making available to the public. This team includes Laura Racovita, Family Services coordinator; Laura Meyer, Thrift Store manager; and Lucy Caesar, acting director. The board is chaired by Reger Smith. This team is dedicated to service and anticipates the time when more programs for education and development can be offered to the community.

Pioneer Memorial Church release