PROACTIVE Project
Kathi Harris
Executive Director
"We appreciate the efforts of nonpartisan groups to help educate our residents on voter registration and voting options. We are committed to engaging all eligible voters in the election process."
Who are we?
PROACTIVE Project Inc., a 20-year-old non-partisan non-profit, is dedicated to election protection and humanitarian work, serving marginalized, homeless, unhoused, and formerly incarcerated individuals in Grand Rapids and Kent County. Operating a storefront office as a safe haven, the organization provides essentials like food, restrooms, and warm clothing while assisting 15–20 people daily with housing, job applications, medical resources, and educational support. Despite progress, many still face barriers to accessing services due to systemic issues and past government failures. PROACTIVE bridges these gaps through direct, personalized support and alternative healing methods beyond traditional therapy, fostering trust and meaningful engagement within the community.
Our Misson:
At Proactive Project, our mission is to empower low-income individuals and families in the Grand Rapids area by fostering leadership, civic engagement, and economic opportunity. We aim to create a foundation for self-sufficiency and thriving communities through voter education, evidence-based programs, and housing initiatives. We are committed to breaking down barriers, advocating for social justice, and providing the tools needed for personal and community transformation. Let the writing speak for itself. Keep a consistent tone and voice throughout the website to stay true to the brand image and give visitors a taste of the company’s values and personality. Our vision is to build a future where every individual has the opportunity to participate fully in society, access resources, and lead a fulfilling life. Together, we’re driving change, one community at a time.
Our Objectives:
- Expand Volunteer Base: Recruit more volunteers and mentors to build connections and reach more individuals in the homeless community.
- Education & Training: Offer programs in life skills, GED preparation, job readiness, and civic engagement, involving volunteers to diversify offerings.
- Community Outreach: Use surveys and focus groups to understand homelessness and collaborate on targeted solutions.
- Program Expansion: Hire staff to provide structured, enriching activities for shelter residents throughout the week.
- Advocacy & Support: Assist with job placements and connect patrons to supportive employers.
- Address Systemic Issues: Tackle barriers like housing applications, EBT restrictions, and transportation for employment.
Executive Board Members
Doctor Nikia Belcher
YWCA
VP of Crisis Services & Community Programs
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Derrick Collins
Disability Advocates of Kent County
Independent Living Team Manager
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Alfreada Wallace
Retired
UAW Local 163
Reginald Howard
Founder, Hero's Corner
Josh Ferguson
Renewable Energy
Involved in Coalition Building
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Fran Dalton
Community Advocate
20,000+
Kentwood Canvassing Results
PROACTIVE conducted targeted door-to-door canvassing and literature drops in historically low-turnout Kentwood neighborhoods. This in-person outreach ensured residents received clear, non-partisan voting information, including election dates, polling locations, and voter rights, helping reduce confusion and increase voter readiness.
19,000+
Kentwood PhoneBank Results
Our phone banking efforts focused on directly contacting voters to provide reminders, answer basic voting questions, and encourage participation. These conversations helped reinforce trust, reached voters who may not engage through traditional mail or digital outreach, and supported first-time and infrequent voters.
5% Increase
Voter Turn-Out in Kentwood
As a result of PROACTIVE’s coordinated outreach efforts, targeted precincts in Kentwood experienced an average voter turnout increase of approximately 5%. Increased participation was observed across multiple polling sites, contributing to a historic election and demonstrating the effectiveness of consistent, community-based voter engagement.
YOU CAN VOTE
Voting in Michigan: Your Options
Vote Absentee (By Mail or Drop Box):
Any registered voter can vote absentee—no reason required. Apply online, by mail, or in person at your local clerk’s office. Return your ballot by mail, secure drop box, or in person by 8:00 p.m. on Election Day.
Vote Early (In Person):
Michigan offers at least 9 days of early in-person voting before Election Day at locations set by your local clerk.
Vote on Election Day:
Registered voters vote at their polling place. Unregistered voters can register and vote in person at their local clerk’s office up to 8:00 p.m. on Election Day (with proof of residency).
Secure Drop Boxes:
Available in every city and township (many are 24/7 during the election period). Ballots must be dropped off in your city or township of residence.
Permanent Mail Ballot List:
Sign up with your local clerk to receive absentee ballot materials for every election. Keep your address updated.
More info: https://Michigan.gov/vote
Questions: questions@promotethevotemi.com
