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About Us

History

Founded in 2013 by a group of compassionate community members, Our Brother’s Keeper (OBK) began as a seasonal overnight shelter to meet the growing needs of the homeless population in Big Rapids, Michigan.

 

As the needs of the community grew, so did OBK. Today, we provide year-round emergency shelter and coordinated support for individuals and families from Mecosta, Osceola, Lake, and Newaygo counties.

We understand that homelessness is more complex than lacking a place to sleep. Guests may be navigating loss, housing shortages, transportation barriers, unemployment, health concerns, recovery, family instability, and systems that can be difficult to navigate alone.

That is why OBK provides more than shelter. We meet immediate needs while walking alongside guests as they take meaningful steps toward stability, self-sufficiency, and permanent housing.

Emergency Shelter

24/7 emergency shelter for people experiencing homelessness. Guests receive a safe place to stay, meals, and essential supplies.

Warming Station

Overnight Warming Station operates during dangerous weather conditions for people experiencing homelessness.

Empowerment Support 

Housing-based case management identifies goals, addresses barriers, and develops a plan toward stable housing.

Project North

Connects guests affected by substance use with recovery-focused support through OBK’s partnership with Ten16 Recovery Network.

Programs

Our Brother’s Keeper helps individuals and families move from homelessness toward stability through four core programs that provide immediate safety, individualized support, and a path forward.

Impact Stats

831
Guest Intakes
Every intake is a first step toward stability and support.
28,155
Bed Nights Provided
Safe, warm nights offered from January 2022 to March 2024.
435
Women Served
Providing care, shelter, and direction for women in crisis.
288
Men Served

Supporting men on their path to housing and self-sufficiency.

 

225
Families Supported

Helping families stay together through housing and vital resources.

Leadership Team

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Jeffrey Auguste
Executive Director
Provides executive leadership & oversees the strategic growth of Our Brother’s Keeper.
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Harley Rogers
Director of Operations
Offers operational leadership to ensure effective shelter operations, staff support, & administrative systems.
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Heather Seyka
Program Supervisor
Provides direct oversight of shelter programming & frontline service delivery.

Board Members

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Ron McKean
Board President
Provides vision and oversight on behalf of the board.
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Lila Ecker
Vice President
Supports leadership and board coordination efforts.
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Dave Nicol
Secretary

Maintains board records and meeting documentation.

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Victor Piercey
Treasurer
Oversees financial planning and accountability.

Additional Members

Erin Carrier

Scott Dell

Isaac Dieterman

Mark Gifford

Chris Jensen

Patti O'Dell

Kristine Szot-Schult

Additional Members

Erin Carrier

Scott Dell

Isaac Dieterman

Mark Gifford

Chris Jensen

Patti O'Dell

Kristine Szot-Schult

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