We just returned from our first ever group trip to the newly purchased K-LOVE Hope Center. It was everything we imagined and so much more that only God could have known. The trip was made up of travelers from all around the country. Some travelers had heard about us on K-LOVE cruises, others through previous trips, some from churches we have visited and even a couple who heard about us through word-of-mouth or online and wanted to help. We always say our trips are perfectly pieced together by God, and he did not disappoint this trip!
We began with a tour of sights, and smells, when we entered the new building. Due to the roof damage, there had certainly been some water in the building, and we could tell right away. However, everyone put on their gloves and got right to work. We had various work crews throughout the building for the entire week. Some were ripping out damaged cabinets and wall fixtures, others were tearing up carpet and flooring, and still others were removing rotted ceiling tiles. Don’t think it was a destruction; a lot of our guys, joined by a host of guys from community churches in the area, took the week to repair and seal the entire 40,000 square foot roof, not a small task and such a vital part of our week. Windows and walls were also repaired or boarded by the time the week ended; it was truly beginning to look like a new place.
During the week, in the midst of construction, we also happened to hold our annual board meeting. Members of the board came in and met right in the new Hope Center, and we are so pleased they were able to see this project first hand.
To finish out the week, we held our first block party. It was a learning experience for sure, but it is an opportunity we know we will continue to do on each trip. We met so many members of the community, our new neighbors, and got to share with them who we are and our mission in Detroit. We gave out food and clothing, played with kids, had fellowship, and prayed and shared the love of Christ. It was a phenomenal way to close out this trip.