History
From its humble origins as a Depression-era soup kitchen, Kalamazoo Gospel Mission has been the story of vision and sacrifice by its founders, Jake and Anna Hildebrand. Click here to read their inspiring story.
1927 Jake Hildebrand becomes a believer in Jesus Christ
1932 Hildebrand begins holding tent meetings in the Portage/Vine neighborhood
1933 First Mission opens at 140 Portage Street
1935 Mission moved to 304 N. Burdick Street
1947 Burdick Street location sold; Mission closes for 3 years while new location is sought
1950 Mission moves to 117 N. Church Street
1954 First Board of Directors formed
1957 Mission moves to 448 N. Burdick Street; overnight accommodations made available
1960 Mortgage burning of 448 N. Burdick Street
1968 Jake Hildebrand dies at age 71
1970 Omer Fleck appointed as superintendent of Mission
1972 McKerring Building (450-458 N. Burdick Street) purchased
1974 New chapel, kitchen & renovated facilities dedicated
1977 Women first offered services of the Mission; Omer & Iola Fleck awarded Kalamazoo Rotary Club “Red Rose Award” for significant contribution to the community
1983 Rev. Jack Polstra appointed as superintendent; Anna Hildebrand dies at age 82
1984 John Schuring appointed as director of Mission
- KGM presented Kalamazoo News Citizen of the Year award, “for making sure that nobody in Kalamazoo need go without food or shelter”
1987 Renovation of facilities at cost of $70,000 to better accommodate women and children
1991 Former Superior Inn (439 N. Burdick Street), purchased, remodeled
1993 New Life discipleship program for men initiated; children’s playground added; Dick Michel appointed as director
1994 First group graduates from New Life discipleship program
1997 Family Hope discipleship program for families begins; Hildebrand Building (dining hall, food warehouse, Family Hope, women’s lodging & administration) constructed
2000 Nick Westra appointed as director
2004 Rev. Michael Brown appointed as director; Men’s Division building constructed & dedicated
2007 Warehouse completely destroyed by fire
2009 New Rescued Treasures Thrift Store constructed
