Our Mission
Compassionate Ministries of Jackson County is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization,
dedicated to creating lasting solutions for building a stronger community.
Vision
By being a catalyst for change, we pursue a collaborative community effort focused on transforming lives. By partnering with families, churches, schools, organizations and businesses, we empower them to build community with those that are served.
Statement of Faith
CMJC is a faith-based organization following the principles and teachings of Jesus. We are called to love and compassionately serve all people in our community.
Values
Faith, empowerment, transformation, diversity,
sustainability, dignity and respect.
Diversity Statement
At Compassionate Ministries of Jackson County, we firmly believe that diversity is not only a fundamental aspect of our community but also an essential strength that enriches our organization and the ministries we provide. We are committed to fostering an inclusive environment where individuals from all backgrounds feel welcomed,
valued, and respected.
Values
Faith, empowerment, transformation, diversity,
sustainability, dignity and respect.
Our Story
In the late 1980s, volunteers from First Church of the Nazarene in Jackson gathered each fall to sell their homemade baked goods and crafts at Westwood Mall. This heartfelt effort raised funds to support fellow church members in need, fostering community and connection.
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What started as a desire to serve the church grew into a mission to help our community. Church volunteers began serving at the Interfaith Shelter, hosting a community Thanksgiving dinner, and providing oil changes for single moms. In August 2003, First Church of the Nazarene opened its food pantry/
Because of a passion to serve all of Jackson County as well as a goal to collaborate with others throughout the community, Compassionate Ministries of Jackson County (CMJC) was established in 2012, becoming a 501(c)(3) faith-based organization.
CMJC serves Jackson County residents as its own non-denominational ministry, independent from First Church of the Nazarene. We collaborate with churches, schools, organizations, businesses and community members through our Food ministries, David's Promise ministry and our Community Collective ministries.
Change is vital for a healthier Jackson, and we are committed to making it happen. We aim to act with compassion and kindness towards everyone we serve. By spreading God's love and hope, we can transform our community together!
Meet Our Board of Directors
CMJC’s Board of Directors and staff represents a group of people dedicated to transforming our community through the building of relationships with ministry supporters, neighbors, program participants, volunteers and partner organizations. In the thirteen years as an organization, we have made remarkable progress in our vision to transform lives in our community. We have been intentional about developing a diverse leadership team, each with different gifts and talents, each wanting to share the love and hope of God to our community.
Scott Buchler
Northwest High School, Principal
Joe Lathrop
Flagstar Bank,
Senior Vice President
Jeff Tolonen
Consumers Energy
Jim Johnson
BOARD PRESIDENT
Johnson Sign Company, Vice President/Director of Sales
Wendy Valentine
BOARD VICE PRESIDENT
The Beacon Church, Lead Pastor
Tony Curtis
BOARD TREASURER
The Cardinal Group, Chief Financial Officer
Terry Williams
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Compassionate Ministries of Jackson County
Bryce Gernand
JaxNaz Church, Lead Pastor
Michael Cain
Southside Church, Lead Pastor
Jane Schultz
JPS School Teacher, Retired
Meet Our Staff
Kathy Alexander
David's Promise Program Assistant
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Peggy Swartzlander
David's Promise Program Assistant
Eric Colby
Facilities Manager
John Bucrek
Food Ministry Director
Lynne Williams
Assistant to the
Executive Director
Gary Swartzlander
David's Promise Program Director
Jamin Bradley
David's Promise Spiritual Care Director
Autumn Hays
David's Promise Activities Coordinator