In a November 14th, 2007 article, the Grand Rapids Press stated that a majority of teen crime occurred in the hours  immediately after school.  This statistic includes crimes  committed by teens and those in which teens are the victims.   The D.O.C.K., located in a neighborhood in which 25% of  the  population is 14 years and under, seeks to make a positive and lasting impact on this statistic.

The  D.O.C.K. is a Christ centered drop in center staffed  by  volunteer adults ranging from young adults to those in their golden years. We are an extended family to the kids visiting us weekly.  The D.O.C.K. staff volunteer their time, love and  life experiences to connect with the urban kids who come to  have fun, be themselves and be accepted for who they are. The D.O.C.K. is a place where kids are encouraged  to grow by adults who are positive, Christ followers.

Directed by Wayne  Ondersma, and staffed by nearly 30 volunteers, The D.O.C.K. is making a difference in the lives of teens, providing a  drop-in center, organized programs, retreats and missionary  opportunities.  Through The
D.O.C.K., kids who might otherwise be at risk to high crime rates are finding love,  safety, and a place to learn that they have value, to the One who made them, and to their neighbors and  friends.

Jesus’ last command, often called the  Great Commission, is all about leaving our comfortable houses,  churches and neighborhoods and finding those who long to feel, and need to be shown the love of the Christ. 

 The D.O.C.K. is a neighborhood ministry founded by neighboring churches in  an attempt to complete that great commission in their own back yards.