An Open Letter of Love and Solidarity on Mother’s Day

Posted in: From Dr. Chad Audi, Latest News, Stories

May
15

Dear Family and Friends,

As we gather to honor the women who have so profoundly shaped our lives on this Mother’s Day, let us take a moment to reflect on the incredible strength, dedication, and unconditional love that defines motherhood.

The journey of a mother is one of deep sacrifice, steadfast devotion, and a love that knows no bounds. Our mothers are our greatest protectors, our fiercest advocates, and our first teachers. They are the ones who cradle us through the night, guide us through life’s trials, and love us even when we falter.

However, as we rightfully celebrate the joy and beauty of motherhood, let us not forget the mothers who are facing immense struggles each day. Mothers who, through no fault of their own, have become victims of life’s harsh circumstances. Whether it be domestic violence, substance abuse, mental health issues, job loss, or the heart-wrenching loss of a loved one, these mothers carry the weight of the world on their shoulders.

Let’s not forget the widows, the grandmothers, the women who have endured the unimaginable pain of losing a child. These women, too, deserve our recognition, our compassion, and our unwavering support.

Today, we stand together as a community, committed to uplifting these mothers, to bringing a smile back to their faces, and reminding them of the strength and resilience they possess. They deserve the best, they deserve a chance to rebuild, and they deserve to be celebrated.

At Detroit Rescue Mission Ministries, we are humbled to serve over 2200 individuals daily, two thirds of whom are women and children. We are here to listen, to understand, and to give unconditionally, without judgment or expectation.

This Mother’s Day let’s all come together to honor every mother, from every walk of life. Let’s show them the same selfless love and support they have shown us. Let’s give them the recognition they so richly deserve and let’s work tirelessly to ensure that all mothers, no matter their circumstances, can experience the joy of this special day.

Remember, it’s in our hands to make a difference. As we celebrate, let’s also extend our hands in service, ensuring every mother’s heart is filled with hope and every face graced with a smile.

Happy Mother’s Day to all the incredible women out there. Your strength, your courage, and your love inspire us every day.

With love and respect,

Chad Audi

Dr. Chad Audi has been the president and CEO of America’s largest rescue mission, the Detroit Rescue Mission Ministries, since 2004. An expert in finance and leadership, he is credited with bringing all-round growth and expansion to the 114-year-old organization that gives much needed hope and help to the homeless, jobless, drug-addicted and afflicted of southeast Michigan. For more information, please visit https://drmm.org or call 313-993-4700.

DRMM Sponsors City of Inkster’s 2nd Annual Easter Egg Hunt

The Detroit Rescue Mission Ministries partnered with the Inkster Task Force, Unity in the Community, City of Inkster  and Mayor Patrick Wimberly, the Inkster Police Department, and Wayne County Sheriff Raphael for Inkster’s 2nd Annual Easter Egg Hunt on Saturday, April 8, 2023 at the Booker T. Dozier Recreation Center.  DRMM donated over 1000 Easter baskets and toys to the event which also included a marshmallow drop.
Thank you to our donors, community partners and staff for their support.

Detroit Rescue Mission Ministries Receives $25,000 From SAY Detroit

DRMM received a $25,000 donation from our partner SAY Detroit raised from their 11th annual SAY Detroit Radiothon. They distributed $1.8 million to 34 local charities (including DRMM) at a ceremony held on April 4th.

“This is one of the best days each and every year,” Mitch Albom, co-founder said. “Helping other like-minded nonprofits in our region who help others is very meaningful and we know the money will be put to good use in their respective operations.”

Our own CEO Dr. Chad Audi started Say Detroit in partnership with Mitch Albom in 2006 and is a current board member. SAY Detroit as an organization that focuses on providing a better life for individuals who are or may have struggled with health, housing or food insecurity.

The donation will benefit Genesis House II Shelter for Women.

2023 Radiothon Distribution Charity Recipients:

  • The Avalon Village, $5,000; 
  • Better Together, $50,000;
  • Bing Youth Institute, $5,000;
  • Boys Hope Girls Hope of Detroit, $7,500;
  • Building Better Men, $15,000;
  • Cass Community Social Services, $25,000;
  • Detroit Dream Scholars fund at the College for Creative Studies, $45,000;
  • COTS Detroit’s Bright Beginnings, $12,500;
  • D2N, $7,500;
  • Detroit Culture Youth Company, $5,000;
  • Detroit Hives, $7,000;
  • Detroit Recovery Project, $5,000;
  • Detroit Rescue Mission Ministries Genesis House II, $25,000;
  • *Faith Tabernacle Choir/A Hole in the Roof Foundation, $5,000;
  • *Full Count Foundation, $10,000;
  • Humble Design, $15,000;
  • Hugs from Heaven, $15,000;
  • *Jive Turkeys Detroit, $5,000;
  • LA SED, Inc., $15,000;
  • Michigan Veterans Foundation, $15,000;
  • Mi-Cycle, $50,000;
  • Mother Batie’s Kitchen/United Sisters of Charity, $10,000;
  • North Star Reach, $5,000;
  • Notes for Notes, $10,000;
  • Parker Village, $7,500;
  • *Peace Players Detroit, $5,000;
  • SASHA Center, $15,000;
  • SAY Detroit Family Health Clinic, $100,000;
  • SAY Detroit Play Center at Lipke Park, $800,000;
  • SAY Detroit Tomorrow Fund, $355,000;
  • *TeMaTe Institute for Black Dance and Culture, $2,500;
  • *Urban Innovators, $5,000;
  • *Volleyball Elite, $10,000;
  • *Wayne County Neighborhood Legal Services, $10,000;
  • Westside Cultural & Athletic Club, $12,000;
  • Working Homes/Working Families, $150,000.

Restored and Redeemed Through Christ’s Love

Posted in: Newsletters, Stories

March
25

GOD HAS JUST BEEN SO GOOD TO ME.

When Curtis Borders was released on parole in 1984, he was a long way from the man he would become. After failing a drug test, with nowhere else to turn, he arrived at the steps of Detroit Rescue Mission Ministries.

“I had used drugs for over 20 years. I was sick and tired of that lifestyle, but I really didn’t know how to change,” he says.

After a year at our Mission, he completed his Bible studies and discovered a new path for his life. He recalls, “I was growing with leaps and bounds. I was seeing something in me that I liked that I never allowed myself to really see when I was an addict.”

Curtis’ time at our Mission sparked a powerful transformation. Today, he’s sober and has served as a pastor for over 20 years. “God and my family are my life. It’s just awesome when you surrender yourself and your will over to a power greater than you,” he says.

At 73 years old, Pastor Curtis continues to pay it forward by working as a chaplain at our Mission. His life is a living testament to the power of renewal and restoration. “I just thank God for the privilege of being a part of Detroit Rescue Mission Ministries because it has really helped me.”

As you celebrate Easter this year, I hope you will keep our residents in your heart and in your prayers. Remember, each person who walks through our doors has amazing potential, just like Pastor Curtis Borders.

“I’m a giver today. Years ago, I was a taker, but I give today,” he says as he describes why he believes it’s so important to keep supporting the men, women, and children who come to our Mission. “There are so many who don’t have what they need. And as a giver, it’s all right to open up your heart. That’s why you give…because you have a heart of compassion.”

This Easter, consider giving someone like Pastor Curtis Borders the gift of renewal and purpose. Every success story starts with a hot meal that only costs $2.37!

Read more inspirational stories from the March 2023 Newsletter.

And The Winner Is……

Posted in: In the News, Latest News

March
13

Congratulations to Marsha Podsiad for being the winner of the naming contest for our new Wyandotte location…. THE D.R.E.A.M CENTER (Downriver Rescue Efforts and Mission)!!
Marsha is a Wyandotte resident and a local nurse and her name was selected from over 60 entries.

Here she is pictured (left) with DRMM’s President and CEO Dr. Chad Audi (center) and Outreach and Volunteer Coordinator Billie Lionberger.

The Dream Center located at 1167 Maple Street will be a community hub helping with food, clothing, and hygiene items, resources for the Wyandotte schools including supplies for teachers and students. Additionally, the center will serve as a referral source treatment, shelter or mental health support. Unlike other DRMM locations, the center will not offer housing.