community
THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE Jan. 27 – Feb. 2, 2010 Page C-5
ness of the work that DRMM does and to collect donations for
the residents of Genesis House III.
“This is an overwhelming experience,” said Christian.
“People have been donating all week long and it is so reward-
ing to see the gratitude from everyone involved.”
“We are so grateful to be involved,” said Bjorlin. “It just lifts
you up from within.”
Christian and Bjolin also served lunch to the women that
day. Lunch was donated by American Coney Island owner
Grace Keros.
For Loretta Wright, 46, of Detroit, the donations are a part
of her continuous blessings since coming to Genesis House
III.
“This donation means more space for us,” said Wright.
“The dressers are in tip-top shape, the rooms are neater, the
beds are comfortable, and the comforters have brightened the
rooms and added sunshine. It is all like a breath of fresh
air.”
DRMM is the best kept secret in Detroit. But the neces-
sary and good work they do for the community will not be a
secret for long when they begin to be discovered by national
companies like Starbucks. DRMM was brought to Starbucks’
attention by Talia Reed who is the sales territory manager for
Detroit. Reed read about the work Detroit Free Press colum-
nist and author Mitch Albom does with DRMM and thought it
would be a great way for her and her colleagues to give back
during Starbucks’ East Zone Regional meeting in Detroit.
Starbucks employees from all around the country spent
Tuesday, Jan. 19, doing demolition, painting and sorting
of food and toiletry donations at DRMM’s Oasis House and
DeVos Ministry Center.
“We wanted to make the connection with Detroit,” said
Trish Lum, general manager, Starbucks. “Giving back to the
community is part of the Starbucks culture.”
The demolition work being done is in preparation for the
restaurant that DRMM is preparing to open. It will be located
in the DeVos Ministry Center and will not only provide a fine
dining experience for its patrons, but will also allow DRMM
clients to acquire valuable job skills.
“Today is a great day,” said Pastor Carl Riggins, building
director, DeVos Ministry Center. “The people of Highland Park
haven’t had a sit-down restaurant in 30 years and we are
about to give them that opportunity again.”
With help from corporations such as Art Van Furniture and
Starbucks, and dedication from people who have the ability to
spread awareness far and wide such as Christian and Bjorlin,
the Detroit Rescue Mission Ministries will be able to continue
to make a positive and lasting impact on the urban center,
one person at a time.
For more information on DRMM please call (313) 993-4700
or visit them at www.drmm.org.
LaToya A. Henry is COO of WardHill Omni Media LLC
and can be reached at lhenry@wardhillmedia.com.
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