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Strong Churches Healthy Families Flourishing Communities

Fueled by faith, we work together to make Grand Rapids a city of economic opportunity for all. At the Urban Church Leadership Center, we are united by a vision of thriving communities and prosperous people, grounded in the foundation of faith and family.

Faith-Fueled Leadership

As a dynamic hub and catalyst, we unite and empower faith-driven leaders, providing resources for collaboration and innovation to drive transformative change and foster flourishing communities.

Opportunities to Engage

Committed to the holistic mission of the church, we partner with community organizations and other sectors to address our city’s complex issues, believing that together, we can create a brighter, more prosperous future for everyone.

Congregational Resources

The reason I decided to participate in FLI’s Program was because I wanted to spend more time with my granddaughter. I began to work as a volunteer to help the youth…I got the opportunity to teach my students Christian values that will help them to grow up with healthy minds and bodies. They are developing into helpful and positive individuals, willing to serve and strengthen their families, communities, and country. Thank you FLI Program.”

Sandra, Family Leadership Initiative Participant

We have to, as leaders, be willing to be led…that’s what the Center is about. It’s about bringing us out of our traditional selves and just being who we are. My title says ‘Pastor Leatha Roberts,’ but I’m just Leatha Roberts, and at the end of the day, yes Jesus is the center of my life, but I have problems. We all do. We give so much that we forget we also have to be nourished—that’s why this place is here.”

Leatha Roberts, Church Leader and UCLC Participant

The FLI program was a great opportunity for my family and me. The program taught me many  things, especially how to be a leader. My family and I are now practicing the things we learned in our everyday life. The program  really helped everyone in our family grow into better people.”

Lizbeth, Family Leadership Initiative Participant

UCLC Fireside Chat

June 2024

The discussion topic of this Fireside Chat was the role of the local church, and why it matters in city transformation.

Watch Video in English

Watch Video in Spanish